We're nearing the end of the semi-annual Sephora sale, during which VIB/VIB Rouge members get 15% off their entire purchase, and Beauty Insiders receive 10% off. If you're a frequent Sephora shopper /beauty-obsessed in the slightest this is an event that you plan ahead for. I personally have spent weeks perusing blog-curated wishlists, and filling up my online Sephora shopping bag in preparation for the big event. In the end, one in-store purchase and another online purchase amounted to seven new beauty products joining my already-ludicrous collection. Continue reading to see what items I picked up.

BEAUTY + FRAGRANCE

Kevyn Aucoin – The Sensual Skin Enhancer in SX05 ($58)
After months of being unsatisfied with my under eye concealer (this was pre- Make Up For Ever Ultra HD Concealer) I reached out to two of my favourite bloggers, Rae of The Notice and Jenn of Procrastinating Pretty, for their suggestions. Both immediately praised The Sensual Skin Enhancer, a waterproof makeup enhancer that provides sheer and complete coverage, while hydrating the skin. Unfortunately only available online, I decided to hold off until this event to purchase it given the price point, but am kicking myself now for waiting because it's truly an all-in-one miracle. Mixing a tiny amount with my under eye moisturizer provides all the coverage I need to hide under-eye bags; although the product goes far beyond that, also acting as a highlighter, allover foundation, and can even be used to contour. Needless to say this is one of those HG, never leave my side or I'll die type of products.

Too Faced – Soleil Matte Bronzer in Milk Chocolate and Chocolate ($38)
Nearing the sale I reached the point of hitting pan on my long-time favourite bronzer, NARS Laguna, and had to make the tough decision whether to re-purchase or try something new. After lots of contemplation I decided I would test out the Too Faced Soleil Matte Bronzer in Milk Chocolate and Chocolate – admittedly due to their heavenly chocolate scent. 'Too Faced combines the natural, therapeutic effects of real cocoa powder with their signature bronzing pigments, creating a unique matte bronzer that neutralizes red and evens out and enhances all skintones.' Here's hoping they live up to their claims, although should they not I'll simply keep them on hand for a whiff of chocolatey-goodness around that time of the month... Can you blame me?

Aerin – Amber Musk ($125)
The Sephora sale is the only time I can comprehend purchasing a new fragrance - 15% off goes along way when you're spending $100+/bottle. I've had my sights set on Aerin Amber Musk for what feels like years, and finally followed through on purchasing it during this event. The scent is truly unique, and therefore is best described by the company itself: 'Amber musk blends sensual florals, distinctive amber, and creamy musk. Ambrox makes a velvety first impression, contrasted by a succulent burst of coconut water and the femininity of rose centifolia absolute. Like the glow of amber flames, lingering benzoin and musk infuse the fragrance with warmth.' It's a lighter take on my typical manly, musky scents, making it my new go-to for spring/summer.

SKINCARE

Clarins – Instant Light Lip Comfort Oil ($25)
Undoubtedly the most luxurious thing I've ever placed on my lips, the Clarins Instant Light Lip Comfort Oil is another product I've had on my radar for years now. I was first turned onto it while working as a demo-girl in Shoppers Drug Mart; I would apply the sample to my lips during each and every shift, and relish in the comfort and moisture it provided. The formula, made up of a blend of Hazelnut, Organic jojoba and Plum oils, protects from dehydration, leaving the skin soft and silky. As long as it's in my possession my lips will never go dry. 

Clarins – Radiance-Plus Golden Glow Booster ($31)
Having always been fascinated with unique products, the idea of adding three drops of the Radiance-Plus Golden Glow Booster to my daily moisturizer, both day and night, to produce a sun-free tan was one of great interest. 'The 99.8% natural formula combines natural DHA and erythrulose with aloe vera extract to help preserve skin's softness while giving the complexion a healthy-looking glow.' I'll be sure to follow up with a complete review once I've tested the product's efficacy fully.  

Biotherm – Liquid Glow Instant Complexion Reviving Oil ($65)
Finally, the first and only beauty oil I've ever considered using as a morning moisturizer. Typically, beauty oils tend to leave a slight oily film on the skin, making me weary to apply foundation atop, but the Biotherm Liquid Glow Instant Complexion Reviving Oil vanishes so quickly that I am confident it won't affect the longevity of my makeup. The oil is ultra-concentrated in one of the most powerful antioxidant-rich algae extracts, astaxanthin, to help improve skin's texture and radiance. I can't wait to incorporate it into my daily routine. 

Safe to say I'll be on a beauty no-buy for the next couple of months while I play around with these new baddies!

SHOP THE POST

Have you shopped the Sephora BI/VIB sale yet?
Let me know what you purchased/share your haul in the comment section below.

XO.BB