Gifts for Friends: $30 & Under Intentional Gifting

We’ve all been there. We want to gift our friends something nice without spending an arm and a leg, but want it to be something that they will actually use and enjoy. So today I’ve cultivated a list of items that are perfect for this situation. Below are 10 items that aren’t expensive, but that you wouldn’t necessarily buy yourself regularly, so they are great to receive as a gift. If you have the means within your budget, I would recommend stocking up on some and keeping them on hand for those moments when you want to give someone special a little something.

Tip: Going the extra mile when wrapping a small gift can help it feel like something really special even if it didn’t cost you much.

Arches Candle from Good & Well Supply Co: I fell in love with this candle when I received it myself as a gift. It is the best smelling candle I’ve ever smelled and one I will continually buy until they stop making it. Mikey and I are both obsessed with it, so it’s a great home scent for everyone. All of this companies products are 100% vegan, 100% ecofriendly, and ethically sourced, which is means you can feel great about gifting it to someone you love.

Hearth & Hand Flour Sack Tea Towel: One of my favorite things to gift a friend, especially as a house warming treat, is a beautiful tea towel.

Better Way Tea in ‘Warm Happy Place’: I love tea and I love receiving new teas that I haven’t tried before, especially ones that are a little more nice an expensive. This one from Better Way Designs (shoutout to my amazing friend Bekah who’s business I’ve linked this tea through) is so delicious. It is unlike any other tea I’ve had before and really gives such a cozy, experience when drinking.

Glo Skin Beauty Suede Matte Lip Crayon in Monogram or Trademark: This is one of my favorite lip products of all time for weddings. I very often put bridesmaids in one of these two shades because they are natural, long wearing, comfortable and look so different and beautiful on every skin tone. At $20 a lipstick, these are a great small gift for someone who loves an everyday lip color because they are great quality and look good on everyone.

Zebra Mildliner Highlighter Pack: A massive pack of beautiful shades of highlighters is not always a justifiable ‘need’ in someone’s budget, but boy do these make writing more enjoyable. If you know someone who uses a handwritten planner, writes a lot of notes, is creative and doodles, or just wants to bring a little joy into their everyday life, these are such a great gift! I love that they are double ended so they have two thicknesses.

Hydroflask Tumbler: Who doesn’t want a travel mug that keeps their hot drinks hot for hours and their cold drinks cold for hours? This gift is amazing for SO many people, and I can’t recommend Hydroflask enough. It’s not secret over here that Mikey and I are obsessed and this one is on my list for Christmas.

Sapo de Solis Handcrafted Soap: This is my favorite local soap company and I love that you can buy them online too! If you’re local to the Lansing area, you can find them in the REO Town Marketplace and often at the Okemos Farmer’s Market. I love how long these last and the scents are amazing. We’ve switched to bar soap in both our shower and our bathroom sink and while I have many soaps on hand that I switch in and out, I always seem to go back to buying from Sapo de Solis when I need soap!

Flowers & Thrifted Vase: This is a really simple and meaningful gift that can bring a nice touch to someone’s home. I find beautiful vases at the thrift store all the time that are great for gifting. You could even go a step further and DIY the vase by painting it, etc and making it a unique gift. Then, stop at your local farmer’s market, flower shop, or grocery store, and pick up some flowers to put in your vase before gifting! I have personally received dried lavender and I highly recommend it because it lasts for months instead of just a couple days!

Endangered Species Chocolate: I love this brand of chocolate. The packaging is beautiful and great for gifting, and I love that there is a special cause behind the company because it makes gifting it, that much more special. Each flavor of chocolate bar is associated with a different endangered species, which you can see on the back of each bar. When you purchase them, 10% of the Net Profits go towards saving that animal. This would be a really great gift idea for someone who loves a specific animal like Elephants, for example.

I hope you enjoy these gift ideas for small and meaningful gifts. If you have any suggestions to add to the list, please leave a comment below and let me know!

Have a beautiful day,

Andrea

Disclosure: Some of the above links are Affiliate links meaning that I make a commission off the purchase of the product through my link. This does not affect the price of the product on your end. I would never recommend a product that I didn't love and all opinions are my own. I am thankful for you choosing to purchase through my links, as it helps me create more content for Andrea Fontana Beauty

Fall Makeup Look feat. NARS Extreme Effects Eyeshadow Palette

Yesterday, on my IGTV I shared a video showing you how I used the new Nars Extreme Effects Eyeshadow Palette to create a beautiful warm fall look. If you missed you, you can watch the video below. Below that I’m sharing links to all of the products that I mentioned and used in this video. Thanks for all of the great feedback on this video! I’ll keep making more like this.

Disclosure: Some of the above links are Affiliate links meaning that I make a commission off the purchase of the product through my link. This does not affect the price of the product on your end. I would never recommend a product that I didn't love and all opinions are my own. I am thankful for you choosing to purchase through my links, as it helps me create more content for Andrea Fontana Beauty

Products Mentioned:

Tatcha The Silk Canvas Protective Primer

The Ordinary Coverage Foundation in Shade 2.0N

Juvia’s Place I Am Magic Concealer in shade 20

No. 7 Lift & Luminate Triple Action Powder in shade Light/Medium

MAC Paint Pot in shade Soft Ochre

NARS Extreme Effects Eyeshadow Palette

Tarte Amazonian Clay Matte Waterproof Bronzer in shade Park Avenue Princess

Juvia’s Place The Saharan Vol. II Blush Palette used shade Bee

Physicians Formula Butter Highlighter in shade Champagne

Glossier Boy Brow in shade Black

Essence Volume Booster Lash Primer

Loreal Voluminous Lash Paradise Mascara in shade Blackest Black

MAC Powder Kiss Lipstick in shade Stay Curious

Enjoy,

Andrea

I Like These Products pt. 1

Quarantine has been an interesting time for most of us. I have gone through spurts of absolutely no online shopping and then some weeks I have so many packages coming I have to make a list. Regardless, I’ve had more time to research products, discover new things, and upgrade a few items that I use frequently.

When it comes to shopping my main goal is to shop small, secondhand, and local when I can. Especially with the current worldwide pandemic, I am being extra mindful to shop small and support all of the owners who are struggling. However, like I mentioned, it can be hard to get everything I need this way. Also, some items are gifted to me from companies or from family and friends. Today’s post is reserved for the things I’m loving that aren’t from a small business; those will be saved for their own post soon because they are deserving of special attention.

I don’t usually try enough things to share a monthly favorite post, so I’ve decided to just call these ‘I Like These Products’ and share them every so often when I have enough I’m in love with. I hope that’s good with you!

Fresh Rose Petal-Soft Lip Cream

This product was sent to me for free for review (Thanks Influenster!) and I am absolutely obsessed. I am extremely picky with lip balms due to ingredients but also if they actually hydrate the lips. This one is light and nourishing and feels so good on the lips. Before trying this one, my favorite was the Bite Beauty Agave Lip Mask, which I still love but haven’t tried since they reformulated and repackaged it. While I do usually prefer a squeeze tube to a pot, I keep this one in my bathroom and put it on morning and night after I brush my teeth. Kind of debating buying a second one for my purse since it’s that good, but will probably wait until it cools down, since pot balms are not my favorite in the heat in the summer.

PMD Clean - Smart Facial Cleansing Device

I received my PMD Clean in my last Causebox (which is a whole other favorite that I highly recommend if you want a good ethical subscription box. If you want me to get into that more, leave a comment below or DM me so I know you want to hear my opinion on it). Click here to get $10 off your first Causebox

Anyways, while I didn’t pick this out myself, I couldn’t be happier for it. The entire brush is made out of silicone and has a two-sided head. The brush side has tiny little silicone bristles that gently cleanse your skin while the other side has slight divets to help you massage your products in. There are 2 cleansing settings and 2 massage settings and I especially love the massage side. The best part is that the PMD Clean is water resistant and you can use it in the shower. I love to use it once a day after my workouts to get a really good clean! I also love incorporating into my weekly at home facial nights. After my masks, I use it to massage in my serums and oils and it feels so soothing and good.

Welly Face Saver Clear Spot Bandages

I have tried quite a few zit stickers since they came out and these are definitely at the top of my list as far as effectiveness goes. If you’ve never heard of zit patches, they are hydro-colloid bandages that you put on a zit when it’s coming to head. They absorb excess fluid from surface level wounds (i.e. blemishes). This means that they only work on surface level zits, so don’t expect a miracle on anything deep and cystic. I am obsessed with the Welly brand in general because all of their bandages come in cute tins that are perfect to reuse (ex: I love to keep them for travel for small items…well back when I could travel haha). However, these face saver bandages are extra clutch right now with the mask-cne I’ve been struggling with here and there throughout the pandemic. I just pop one of these stickers over my blemish at night and remove it in the morning and it’s way flatter! I definitely recommend keeping a pack of these on hand if you find that you randomly break out!

Morphe Continuous Setting Mist

When it comes to items I use in my makeup kit, I definitely choose performance over ingredients. Unless a client as requested something specific, I use my tried and true products. That being said, I had been using the classic Urban Decay All-Nighter Setting Spray for YEARS. It works well for any skin type and really helps the makeup stay on. However, I’ve always hated the mechanism of the spray bottle because no matter how gentle you try to be, you scare your clients when you spray it. haha Enter the Morphe Continuous Setting Mist. It works just as well as the All Nighter spray, is less than half the price AND has a gentle continuous spray mechanism. Also, whenever I do weddings, at least half of my clients every time tell me how much they love the smell. Highly recommend.

Kristen Ess The One Signature Shampoo & Conditioner

I know I’m probably the last person to try Kristen Ess hair products, but I’m really not a hair person, as you probably know! I don’t do a lot with my hair so I like simple hair products. I randomly picked up this duo over quarantine when Mikey and I were running out of shampoo and we loved it so I’ve already repurchased it in the larger size with pumps. It smells great (Mikey likes it too) and is a great lightly clarifying shampoo for my hair. I have pretty fine and straight hair, but I only wash it every couple of days, so I need a good cleanse when I do.

Fine-Tip Multi Colored Gel Pens

Am I the only one who is obsessed with pens? I always have been, but I hadn’t had a good set of gel pens in a while. When I was little I had every kind and color under the sun! There’s something about writing in fun colors in my planner that makes me happy and more productive. I am a firm believer in making your planner a happy and creative place so that you are more likely to want to use it and accomplish tasks. These are a great dupe for the Muji gel pens. I didn’t realize they weren’t actually Muji brand until I received them, but they are still great. I love the 0.5 mm fine tip and the range of colors is great too!

Meilliner 25 pack of Assorted Dual-Tip Highlighters

On that same note, I bought this huge 25 pack of Dual-Tip Highlighters thinking they were actual Zebra Mildliners (Mental note: ANDREA READ THE FINE PRINT). I like the color range and again, they do a great job of making my planner happier and prettier. I prefer to highlight tasks when they are completed instead of crossing them out, so this wide range of colors allows me to always have the colors I need to coordinate with my different weeks.

Dried Lavender

In May when I turned 30 one of my best friends gave me some dried lavender. I put it on my dining room table in a vase and it is still going strong. I can’t recommend this enough for yourself or when you need a little something for a friend (instead of flowers), because it lasts so much longer and smells amazing too! Plus you don’t have to worry about watering anything because it’s already dried. The only thing I would warn you about is that it is very delicate. If you touch the branches too much, the dried lavender buds will fall off, so keep it out of reach if you have kids or animals so it doesn’t get everywhere! Dried Eucalyptus is also a great one to try.

Amazon House Dress

I discovered this dress from Meredith over at @tinybitsofhappiness_. If you don’t follow her on IG, you need to. Her words are great, her recommendations are great, her dog Stella is so adorable. She’s basically gold and you should be following her. If you saw my studio redesign from about a year ago, she made my beautiful custom Andrea Fontana Beauty doormat! Anyways, back to the dress. She introduced me to this Amazon dress and it has quickly become my go to at least 2 times a week (likely more haha). It is so comfortable, makes you feel like you are way more put together than you are, and comes in SO many colors. I would suggest sizing up if you want that really comfortable flowy fit like I wanted. Also I do not dry because I’m always worried Amazon things will shrink. It’s not the most amazing quality, but it’s pretty damn great for under $30! Pre-COVID, my 2020 goal was to only buy secondhand clothing for the entire year. I’m proud to say that even despite quarantine, I have done a pretty good job at sticking to this goal. I think this is the first time I’ve broken it to buy something new. Well worth it, thanks Mere!

OLLY Sleep Melatonin Gummies

I used to have a solid bath routine as a pre-wedding ritual the night before weddings. I would always make sure that I had a calming evening to ensure good sleep the night before a big day. However, moving from my old apartment means that I no longer have a bathtub so I had to adjust my routine. Now, I take a nice long hot shower, get in bed early to read, and enjoy some OLLY Melatonin Gummies about 30 minutes before I want to go to sleep…haha I only use these a couple times a month, but I love them whenever I do. Obviously, make sure you check with your doctor before adding any new supplements to your routine.

What have you been loving lately? Comment below and let me know!

Best,

Andrea

Disclosure: Some of the above links are Affiliate links meaning that I make a commission off the purchase of the product through my link. This does not affect the price of the product on your end. I would never recommend a product that I didn't love and all opinions are my own. I am thankful for you choosing to purchase through my links, as it helps me create more content for Andrea Fontana Beauty. 

Recent Amazon Favorites

I don’t know about you but I love to see the random things people purchase on Amazon and what their favorites are. Here is my list of items I have been very happy with recently.

1. Bamboo ‘Cotton Rounds"‘:

   As I mentioned on IG, as a way to track one of my 2020 goals of making more sustainable swaps in my everyday life, I am switching up something every month. In January I bought these reusable and machine washable natural bamboo cotton rounds and I love them! They are bigger than disposable cotton rounds which makes them great for removing makeup and applying toner!

2. Glo Minerals Pencil Sharpener:

   If you love jumbo pencil-type lipsticks, i.e. Nars, Glo Minerals, etc, you need to have one of these pencil sharpeners. It’s the perfect size and works so well!

3. Glo Minerals Suede Matte Lip Crayons:

   These are my favorite lip products for brides because they look so special, but are never too intense. The formula is perfect for a wedding day because they are comfortable but stay on really well. I love the shades “Monogram” and “Trademark” for my brides.

4. Conair Fabric Defuzzer:

   This is another ‘gadget’ that every woman needs to own, especially if you are a thrifter! It’s a great way to clean up and bring some loved and pre-worn pieces back to life. Let’s also not forget how satisfying it is to shave your clothes and watch them appear neater. My people who love power washing and vacuuming will get this! haha

5. Popsocket:

   I have been a faithful popsocket lover for a couple of years now and I have noticed how much more comfortable using my phone is when I have one. It SAVES your pinky. Now that I have the iPhone 11 Pro Max too it’s especially helpful because this phone is huge and heavy.

6. Book Dart Bookmarks:

   I technically bought these for Mikey for his birthday to go with a book I got him but since the set came with 18, I asked if I could steal one and I am obsessed. If I ever lose mine I will buy my own set, because they are amazing. They are so thin and sleek in your book, but hold your exact line where you leave off…if you are one of those crazy people who can stop reading in the middle of a chapter!!! I am not…haha

7. Washi Tape:

   There is something about washi tape that makes me super happy. I use it in MANY things. In my planner, to wrap presents, to decorate cards, etc. I just love having a diverse supply of colors so I can always have something that works on hand.

8. Gold Necklace:

   I bought this necklace to test out the quality and see if I like this trend of many layered gold necklaces and I’m pleasantly surprised with how much I love the quality of it. I was expecting my neck to turn green but thankfully it hasn’t! I never take it off along with my other gold necklace and it still looks beautiful.

9. Stasher Bags:

   Stasher bags have changed my life and I have several now. I love how I can throw them into the dishwasher to clean them which not all reusable bags can do. They are great quality and I also love that they come in many different colors and shapes. Adding more to my collection is also on my list of sustainable swaps this year!

10. LED Book Light:

    I have only had this book light for about a week but I’m already obsessed. It grips onto your book easily, is rechargeable with an included USB charger, and it has 3 light settings which are awesome! If you need a book light, I highly recommend this one!

Have you purchased anything from Amazon recently that you love? Tell me in a comment below! I am always curious!

Happy Valentine’s Day,

Andrea

Disclosure: Amazon links are Amazon Affiliate links meaning that I make a commission off the purchase of the product through my link. I would never recommend a product that I didn't love and all opinions are my own. I am thankful for you choosing to purchase through my links, as it helps me create more content for Andrea Fontana Beauty. 

Best Beauty Discoveries of 2019

In the past few years I’ve really tried to become more aware of how many beauty products I’m buying and trying to do more research before purchasing. While the amount that I have been trying has certainly decreased, I still managed to discover some pretty awesome products during 2019. Therefore, I give you my best beauty discoveries of 2019; the products that stand out and I continued to love after many uses.

1. Weleda Skin Food Light

   I have talked about the Weleda Skin Food moisturizer many times on my blog, but in May I received the Light version (which I didn’t even know had come out!) for my birthday and I have used it for most of the year. For those of you who love the original Skin Food but want something lighter for the summer or because you are on the oilier side, I highly recommend trying the Light version. Same amazing smell!

2. The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane

   I am super hesitant to use too much Retinol and too high of a percentage, but when I visited the Deciem store in Chicago this past September, I was really excited to find this Retinol suspension in Squalane oil. It’s way gentler on the skin but I still feel like it’s smoothing and perfecting the texture of my skin, including my mini wrinkles starting to form on my forehead (hello 30, I see you coming in 4 months…)

3. The Ordinary 100% L-Ascorbic Acid Powder

   I was also really excited to discover this L-Ascorbic Acid Powder for another affordable price during my Deciem trip. Ascorbic Acid is Vitamin C and some Vitamin C products don’t end up being very effective because the shelf life of Vitamin C can be compromised when in liquid form. I love being able to control when I use the Vitamin C (I mix it in with my Weleda Skin Food Light during the day). Remember, Vitamin C is really important to use during the day because it is an Antioxidant and helps boost the protection of your SPF!

4. Hylamide SubQ Mist

   Yet, another Deciem visit discovery, except this time in their product range Hylamide that is a price point higher than The Ordinary. I am obsessed with this toning mist as a pH balancer, hydrator and it just feels amazing after cleansing my skin. I love the rose aroma.

5. Kaja Moon Crystal Sparkling Eye Pigment in Rose Quartz

   If you’re looking for an every day, one swipe cream eyeshadow product, look no further than this one from Kaja at Sephora. They have many different shades and the product is perfect for every day wear. They are all sparkly shades, but are so beautiful either on their own or paired with another eyeshadow on top!

6. Bite Beauty Agave Lip Mask in Smashed

   I was reluctant to put this one on my list because it looks like they have reformulated but this is one of my top products of the year FOR SURE. The smell of this product is amazing and it hydrates my lips unlike anything I’ve every tried before. I love the Smashed shade because it gives just a hint of rosy tint to make the lips look naturally healthy. I love using it as an every day lip balm, but also on my brides who don’t want a lipstick on their wedding day, but still want their lips to look nice and natural. Fingers crossed that when it comes back in stock, they haven’t changed the formula or gotten rid of the shade Smashed!

7. Invisibobble Hair Ties

   I’m officially an Invisibobble convert. I am obsessed with these hairties, and while I initailly tried the knock off brand first, I can truly tell a difference with the actual Invisibobble brand hair ties. They don’t stretch out as easily and they feel more secure in my hair. I wear these every day for running, cycling, and every day use.

8. Moda Brushes

   One of the best discoveries I made in 2019 was finding a new brand of brushes that I absolutely love. I have my friend Jodi to thank for this, as she introduced me when she started working for the company so SHOUTOUT to Jodi! I love how durable, soft and light all are the brushes are from Moda that I’ve tried. They wash and hold up well. I initially started using them on clients at weddings to test them out and not only did I love how they were performing but I was getting so many compliments on how nice they felt on my clients’ faces! They are also SUPER affordable. If you click the link in the title above, you can save 10% off!

9. Physician’s Formula Butter Highlighters

   I certainly fell in love with these highlighters early in the year and used them throughout 2019. I love how natural they look on the skin; not gliterry by any means. They also last all day on the skin. I even gifted quite a few of these to friends because I loved them so much. All of the shades are awesome, but I love the Champagne one most.

10. Loreal True Match LUMI Glotion

    It is no secret that I fell in LOVE with Glotion this year. I went through many bottles and mixed it into my foundation 99% of the time I was wearing makeup. I love how it mixes with foundations, looks great under foundation, or even on it’s own! I like the light shade because of the pink tones and I can’t recommend it enough if you like a dewy and glowing skin look.

11. Pixi Glow Mud Mask

    I have tried a LOT of charcoal, gray looking masks to clean the impurities out of my skin, but none have every worked as well as this one. One of the coolest parts is that you can see where your problem spots are as it’s drying. To me this shows that it’s actually drying and pulling out the impurities if it can recognize the troubled spots. I received this one as a gift from Pixie, but I was so excited to receive it because I had been wanting to try it. I wasn’t disappointed when I started using it.

12. Drunk Elephant Lippe Balm

    I rarely discover lip balms that I like because I’m super picky and here I am with two for the year! This one came in a kit, otherwise I probably wouldn’t have tried it out. It is super expensive for a lip balm and how much of it you get, but I love this one. It feels so good on and I can tell it is actually moisturizing my lips, not just coating them and making them more chapped.

13. The Ordinary Coverage Foundation

    For the price of this foundation, I didn’t think there was a chance I was going to love it, but boy do I! It is the perfect mix of coverage, while still looking natural. It builds well and mixes with my Glotion if I want it to be more luminous of a finish (it has a pretty satin/matte finish). Highly recommend giving it a shot if you’re looking for a good and affordable foundation.

Did you discover any products this year? What stood out to you? Tell me below so we can all share our recommendations!

Have a great day,

Andrea

Disclosure: Amazon links are Amazon Affiliate links meaning that I make a commission off the purchase of the product through my link. I would never recommend a product that I didn't love and all opinions are my own. I am thankful for you choosing to purchase through my links, as it helps me create more content for Andrea Fontana Beauty. 

The Glow Mud Mask from Pixie was sent for PR purposes, however all opinions are my own and I was not paid to talk about this product.

My Recent Favorite Products

It’s been a little while since I’ve talked about some favorite products on here, so today I thought I’d share what I have been loving recently. I’ve discovered some new to me products and also re-fallen in love with some products I already owned. Have you discovered anything good lately?

Bite Beauty Agave Lip Mask in Smashed

After hearing so many talk about how amazing this is, I finally picked up my own while in Chicago last month. Since then, it hasn’t left my purse and gets applied almost every day. I love the slight red tinge because it wakes my lips up and enhances their natural color. This is the best lip moisturizer I’ve ever used, as it doesn’t contain petroleum!

Mac Extra Dimension Skinfinish in Superb

When I moved at the end of August, I went through my entire personal makeup collection and got rid of about 75% of it! I only kept things I knew I wanted to continue to use, which is when I rediscovered how much I love this Skinfinish as an every day blush and eyeshadow shade. It’s so easy to swipe on and gives you a nice sheen too, so you can totally skip the highlighter too on days when you’re in a rush!

Laura Mercier Foundation Primer Radiance

This product was sent to me by Influenster for free for reviewing purposes and I fell in love with it! It reminds me a lot of Loreals Glotion, except if it was a primer. I love using it for days when I don’t wear full coverage foundation because it makes my skin super glowy and healthy looking.

Kaja Beauty Moon Crystal Sparkling Eye Pigment in Rose Quartz

My best friend Margaret and I discovered this brand in a Sephora in Madison, Wisconsin in November and both picked up a few products from them. These Moon Crystal sparkling eye pigments are amazing as quick and easy eyeshadows for day to day use! I love the Rose Quartz shade because it’s super warm and reminds me of when I wear blush on my eyelids. I can’t wait to pick up more shades. The formula is easy to apply with your fingers and blend out. Then it sets well and lasts all day. I also love that it is the perfect amount of glitter for daily use; not too much.

Hydroflask 40 oz.

I’ve had my Hydroflask for awhile now, but I haven’t talked about it on the blog yet, so I figured I’d throw it in too. There is no greater feeling than waking up in the morning super thirsty and having ice still in your water bottle from the night before. I love the straw top because I drink more water with straws. I take this water bottle EVERYWHERE I go. The only thing I would warn you about is if you want yours to fit in your car’s cup holder, you may want the skinnier bottle shape. It doesn’t bother me because I put it on the passenger front seat when I’m driving.

Kitsch Spiral Hair ties 8 pk for Brunettes

These are my new favorite hair ties. I love how they simultaneously hold my hair in so tightly, yet don’t feel tight at all. They are tight enough from running which is a must for me too. I also love how comfortable they are when they are on your wrist. Bonus, my niece loves them so they are a great baby entertainer when you’re in a pinch! hahaha

Quip Rosegold Toothbrush

I have been using this toothbrush for over 6 months now and I LOVE it. I love that it’s a subscription, so every 3 months a new tube of toothpaste and a replacement head comes in the mail without me every having to think about picking them up from the store. I love the rose gold handle because it looks beautiful in the bathroom. Even though I sometimes feel like a kid, I secretly love that when you turn on the vibration, it does a special buzz every 30 seconds, and turns off when you’ve brushed for long enough. One less thing I have to think about!

Weleda Skin food Light

I received this as a birthday present from my friends last May and I have fallen in love with it. I will do an updated skincare routine soon because I’ve discovered some new products, but I wanted to let you know that if you have loved the Original Weleda Skin Food in the past, you have to try this one out too. I keep them both on hand and use whichever one is more necessary for my skin, that day. I will always keep both the Original and the Light on hand now because they mix well with other skincare products and are awesome on their own as well!

Have you discovered anything great lately? Let me know in a comment below!

Have a beautiful day,

Andrea

Disclosure: Amazon links are Amazon Affiliate links meaning that I make a small commission off the purchase of the product through my link. This does not affect the price of the product. I would never recommend a product that I didn't love and all opinions are my own. I am thankful for you choosing to purchase through my links, as it helps me create more content for Andrea Fontana Beauty.

Top 5 Spring Lip Picks

I love when the seasons change because it inspires changes in makeup looks. While I love lip products year round, I especially love to switch up the ones I keep in my purse when a new season comes along. I love lipstick because it can change your whole look in 30 seconds. Below are my Top 5 Lip products that you will find in my bag so that I am prepared for every lip situation this spring.

1. Drunk Elephant Lippie Balm:

   This is my current favorite lip balm. I bought it in this set, but you can buy it on it’s own too. I love the shape of the Lippie Balm and that it’s petroleum free. Since spring weather can be so bipolar (we woke up with snow on the ground earlier this week and it’s going to be 70 tomorrow…) it’s important to keep my lips moisturized. I especially love this Lippie Balm because it doubles as an eye balm. If you’re traveling or running late and need some extra moisture on your eyes, it’s awesome! You’d think it would feel oily and too heavy but it absorbs well and works nicely.

2. Maybelline Matte Lipstick in ‘Red For Me’:

   I was sent this lipstick to try from Influenster and I am obsessed with the formula. I’ve always loved Maybelline lipsticks, but this is the most comfortable matte I’ve ever tried from them. It goes on so smoothly but has great lasting power. This red is the perfect shade because it’s intense and has a blue undertone (my fave).

3. Maybelline Matte Lipstick in ‘Clay Crush’:

   After trying the red shade above, I ventured to my local drugstore to check out if there were other new shades to try in this formula and while I didn’t like any of the other new shades in this line (most weren’t matte but glossy), I did glance at the nudes and stumbled upon this one. It’s my favorite type of nude for my skin tone. It’s a very neutral nude pink which doesn’t lean to the blue or orange side.

4. Glossier Generation G Lipstick in ‘Cake’:

   This is probably my favorite lip product of all time, or at least top 3. This shade is so flattering and you might be sick of me talking about it right now but I couldn’t make a spring top 5 without it because I wear it most days and even without makeup on. It’s what I’m wearing in the photo above. It just makes your lips look awesome. I love pairing it with the Lippie Balm on top if I want a glossier look (no pun intended lololol).

5. Lancome Matte Shaker in ‘Beige Vintage’:

   This is a fun product that I picked up last year and I forgot how much I love it, but brought it back out this year for spring. I love how light these are on the lips. They are so hard to describe, so I recommend going into a Sephora to swatch it to see. This is a little bit of a bluer pinky nude that is fun for spring because it gives you just a little pop.

Have a beautiful day,

Andrea

Disclosure: Amazon links are Amazon Affiliate links meaning that I make a commission off the purchase of the product through my link. I would never recommend a product that I didn't love and all opinions are my own. I am thankful for you choosing to purchase through my links, as it helps me create more content for Andrea Fontana Beauty.

What Do I Love From Glossier?

It’s no secret that I love Glossier. I have tried a lot of their products and many of them are staples in my routine. Since I get asked often what my thoughts are, what my favorites are, etc..I figured it was time that I shared my thoughts on each of the products that I’ve tried.

Lash Slick

This is one of my favorite mascaras of all time. I have never seen a mascara that is not waterproof, look the exact same at the end of the day, as it did when you applied it in the AM. If you are someone who is looking for a very dramatic and voluminous mascara, this one isn’t for you. I’d say it’s a great every day mascara that makes you look like you have naturally beautiful and full lashes. I love it for my bottom lash line because it doesn’t transfer. I also like the price tag. It’s not very expensive for being what I would consider a prestige mascara.

Haloscope

I love cream highlighters so it’s probably no surprise that I love this one in Moonstone. This is the only shade I’ve tried but it’s perfect for a wet and dewy skin look. I absolutely love the effect and healthy look it gives my skin. I have heard great things about the other shades as well, but I love this one so much.

Stretch Concealer

I was hesitant to order this concealer originally because I knew it would have as much coverage as the concealers I was used to, but I loved that it had a really dewy finish. Turns out I just had to figure out how to apply it best for my skin. I find that when I apply it with my fingers, let it sit for a few moments, and then blend it out with a Real Techniques Setting Brush (you need to own at least 2 of these if you don’t already), it is PERFECTION! I still set it with powder or hit it with a good layer of setting spray if I want it to stay dewy.

Generation G Lipsticks

This is one of my favorite lipstick formulas of all time. I am obsessed with the shade ‘Cake’. If you look at my IG, I am wearing it all the time in makeup photos. I just love how it gives the perfect amount of something, while being nude. I keep it in my purse and will forever purchase it until they stop making it. I love the colors too because they give the perfect pop of color without being too bold. They are more of a wash of color than an opaque, bright shade. I think they would be great for someone wanting to start wearing lipstick that is nervous to go too bold. The formula is matte but feels really nice on the lips.

Solution

This is the only skincare product I have tried from Glossier and I love it. If you’ve been following my blog for a little while, you’ll know that I love a gentle chemical exfoliation as a daily part of my routine. It’s great for preventing breakouts and aging at the same time. I enjoyed the entire bottle of this and felt like it did what it claimed. I haven’t gone back to it, simply because I like to continue trying other products. However, I wouldn’t be surprised if it ended up back on my shelf in the future. If you deal with breakouts, texture issues, dark spots, fine lines, etc. this would be a great addition to your routine.

Boy Brow

Boy brow is probably tied with the Cake lipstick as my favorite Glossier products of all time. It’s the best brow product I’ve ever used and here’s why. The black shade is the perfect cool tone for my dark brows. It’s brush is small enough to apply precisely, but still is quick. The formula is long wearing and doesn’t make my brows look too wet. I also love that you don’t need a lot of product because I find that I go through my brow products the quickest. If you want a easy brow product that will make your brows look fuller and keep them in place, I HIGHLY suggest you try this one out.

Cloud Paint

If you’re a girl who likes easy and minimal makeup, you would love cloud paint. I tend to go for liquid and cream face products for daily and easy makeup, so I love these cloud paints. They are pretty pigmented and the shade range is beautiful. I have the coral shade and I love how natural of a flush it gives my cheeks. You can also wear them on your eyes and lips which is fun! I like to blend them in with my fingers.

Lidstar

This is probably the only Glossier product I’ve tried that I would say you could skip on. It’s a ok product, I just don’t think it’s anything special. I wish they were slightly more pigmented. I do feel like they wear pretty well, so if you’re looking for an all over color to provide a sheer wash of color for your lids, this might be for you. I think I just have too much discoloration and veining on my eyelids to use this alone.

Perfume

If you’re looking for a scent unlike anything you’ve ever smelled, TRY IT! It smells so good, and I’m not a big perfume person! It’s one of those scents that you can’t stop sniffing because it’s so good.

There you have it! If you’re new to Glossier be sure to CLICK HERE for 10% off your first purchase. I have yet to try their new PLAY line of makeup products, but I’ll probably give in and try it soon and let you know my thoughts!

What have you tried from Glossier? It really is a great brand and I love their whole skincare first, makeup second approach to beauty.

Have a beautiful day,

Andrea

Disclosure: Amazon links are Amazon Affiliate links meaning that I make a commission off the purchase of the product through my link. I would never recommend a product that I didn't love and all opinions are my own. I am thankful for you choosing to purchase through my links, as it helps me create more content for Andrea Fontana Beauty.

Happimess Eyeshadow & Lipstick Review

I was scrolling through Instagram one day and discovered the launch of a cosmetics brand that I had never heard of; Happimess.

I was intrigued by their packaging and products to click further and check it out! I was super excited to find how inexpensive their items are. After discovering how much I love the Maybelline Soda Pop and Lemonade Craze palettes, I’ve recently been on the hunt for other inexpensive but good quality palettes. I was really interested in Happimess palettes because I find that glitter and matte formulas tend to be the hardest to find inexpensively and the palette I ordered came with both!

I had a launch coupon code so I decided to try out some lipsticks and an eyeshadow duo, on top of the ‘Next to Me’ palette. Here my thoughts…

‘Next to Me’ Eyeshadow Palette ($12):

I was really happy with the quality of this palette for the amazing price of $12 (I got it even cheaper)! I loved how in this palette there is a good balance of matte and metallic shadows and even a glitter. The matte shades are not chalky and blend very well and the metallic shades are stunning! I love using the halographic glitter shade as a topper to give extra dimension. It’s so pretty. Overall I’m really impressed with this palette.

Accompanied Eyeshadow Duo in ‘Love Lay Here’ ($5):

I got this duo because I love really warm matte shadows to quickly swipe on my lid and blend out when I’m in a hurry. I loved that it was tiny and easy to pop in my makeup bag for the gym and that it had the two colors in one pan. What’s cool about their single and duo eyeshadows is that if you have multiple you can connect them into one unit which would be nice to create your own palette of shades! I again am impressed with the quality of matte shadows for the price.

High Class Lipsticks in ‘Deep Lilac’ & ‘Plum Red’ ($10):

High Class Lipstick in Deep Lilac

High Class Lipstick in Plum Red

High Class Lipstick in Plum Red but applied with my finger as a stain.

I haven’t tried many lipsticks recently, so I was excited to give these a try. They have another formula but it seemed glossier and since I'm more of a matte girl I went with this satin formula. I have been obsessed with applying these with my finger to give my lips more of a stained look. I find this helps the lipstick stay on longer and I love the subtle pop of color it gives to a makeup look. I love how the satin formula keeps my lips from feeling dried out too. Overall I’m really happy with this lipstick.

As you can tell, I’ve been pleasantly surprised by Happimess. I love everything I purchased and I still can’t believe how inexpensive the prices are for the quality you get. I should also mention that the products are overall more natural than most and if you click on each product it will tell you in the description all of the nasty ingredients it is free from!

What new brands have you tried recently? What should I try next? Comment below and let me know!

Have a great day,

Andrea

Disclosure: All products were purchased with my own money and all opinions are my own.

Best Beauty Discoveries of 2018

I wanted to share a recap of my favorite products that I discovered in 2018 so that’s what I’m bringing you today. I’m overall pretty happy with what I tried last year. Nothing stood out as being terrible and wasted money so that’s always a plus. Be sure to let me know after reading, what you discovered and loved last year! (I am only including items that were new to me in 2018 that I hadn’t previously tried)

Makeup:

Lash Paradise Mascara: I was skeptical to try this mascara out because it’s supposed to be a dupe for the Too Faced Better Than Sex mascara and I do not like that one. However, this is now tied with my longtime favorite Loreal Voluminous mascara. It does a great job thickening and voluminizing without getting clumpy. I also really like the wand.

Maybelline Master Strobing Liquid Illuminating Highlighter: I’ve said this a few times over the course of the year, but I would call this liquid highlighter a pretty close dupe for the Becca Shimmering Skin Protector in Opal. Most days I mix it right in with my foundation and it gives me a great all over glow. If you’re worried about being covered in chunky glitter when you do this, do not fear! This one definitely is subtle but beautiful.

Fenty Beauty Match Stix Matte Skinstick in ‘Amber’: This is my absolute favorite way to contour. The shade is perfectly cool-toned and blends effortlessly. If I had to pick my favorite makeup find from all of 2018 this would be it!

Rituel de Fille Rare Light Luminizer in ‘Anthelion’: I fell in love with these luminizers on a videoshoot I did at the beginning of last year and have loved them all year long. I love how easy and blendable this one is for everyday makeup, but still great for a full glam.

Juvia’s Place Eyeshadow Palettes: I didn’t discover these palettes until November but boy am I glad that I did! After buying one (The Warrior Palette) I immediately bought three more and am continuously impressed with the quality and pigmentation of these shadows. Highly recommend you checking them out if you are looking for a new palette.

Glossier Generation G Lipsticks: I picked up the shades ‘Cake’ and ‘Zip’ after Glossier relaunched with new packaging and I am obsessed. Both are staple shades every woman should have. They apply as a lip stain would and are perfect for beginners who are new to lipstick. I will forever keep these two shades in my purse. If you haven’t ordered from Glossier before a.) good luck not getting addicted and b.) click the link below for 10% off your first order!

***For 10% OFF your first Glossier purchase click here

Glossier Boy Brow: Enter one of the best products I’ve ever tried in my life. I used to think that Benefit was the only company who could make a great brow gel but boy was I wrong. I use the shade black and I cannot express to you how badly you need Boy Brow in your life. It gives me just the write amount of tint on my brows and still looks like hair. If you learn anything from reading this post, let it be that you need to try this product. Your BROWS need you to.

Milk Makeup Holographic Stick in ‘Mars’: I bought this product last spring because I was drawn to the color. It’s a rosy gold highlighting stick and I use it now when I want one product to make my cheeks look glowier and a little rosier. It’s a great no-makeup, makeup product and just makes your skin look healthier!

Glossier Lash Slick Mascara: The other best mascara I tried this year was this one. It’s the first mascara I’ve ever tried that cannot make your lashes look clumpy and lasts the ENTIRE day without budging at all. It’s not what I’d wear with a dramatic eyeshadow look because it’s not really that voluminous. It makes you look like you have naturally dark, long, and beautiful lashes! I’d say it’s great if you’re looking for a simple and natural every day mascara that will last all day!

Skincare:

Dr. Jart Cicapair Tiger Grass Color Correcting Treatment: This would probably be my favorite skincare discovery of 2018. I wear it almost every day when I’m not wearing makeup. It gives me color correction (reduces my redness), moisturizes me a little more (I still wear moisturizer under it), and is my physical SPF. I cannot recommend this product enough if you need a product to do all or some of those things. I know it looks expensive but it lasts forever and you can try out a smaller size first if you want!

Weleda Skin Food: I freaking love Skin Food. It’s not a new one, but it was the first time I bought it after hearing about how great it was for years. The smell alone is amazing. If you need a good natural moisturizer to really lock in moisture, even if you have sensitive skin, this one is for you! I personally think everyone should own a tube of it regardless of your skin type.

Acure Brightening Cleansing Gel: On my quest to only buy toxin-free skincare this year, I discovered this Acure cleanser and I’m obsessed. The fresh lemon scent is great and I love how clean my skin feels without being stripped of every oil. I also love how inexpensive it is for being so clean and good for your skin.

French Girl Organics Rose Facial Polish: I normally am very anti-physical exfoliators, but when I worked on that video shoot early last year I discovered this product and I’m obsessed. It’s a little messy, so I like to keep it in my shower and use it about 2-3 times per week. It uses brown rice starch to exfoliate and I especially love that it has clay in it, so after gently massaging it into my skin, I can let it sit for the remainder of my shower and it helps clean some of the impurities as well.

Herbivore Botanicals Blue Tansy Mask: I just freaking love this mask and believe everyone needs it. It’s extremely clean and is amazing for those who suffer from acne. I love how blue tansy is calming for the inflammation associated with breakouts. I especially love that it tells you to use it a few days in a row after a breakout to really help clear it up and then it tells you to taper it off for upkeep.

There you have it! Those are the products I loved trying in 2018. What did you try and how did you feel about it? Comment below and let me know, especially if you made some great discoveries! I’m excited to see what I discover this year.

Have a beautiful day,

Andrea

Disclosure: Amazon links are Amazon Affiliate links meaning that I make a commission off the purchase of the product through my link. I would never recommend a product that I didn't love and all opinions are my own. I am thankful for you choosing to purchase through my links, as it helps me create more content for Andrea Fontana Beauty.

The Makeup Lover's Gift Guide

Similarly to the previous Skincare Nerd’s Gift Guide, I wanted to share some makeup products that any makeup lover would be happy to receive. I can tell you that I would be happy to get anything on this list, so whether you have a sister, girlfriend, daughter, or maybe even you need ideas for what you want to ask for, READ ON!

1. Juvia’s Place Eyeshadow Palettes:

   I’m putting these palettes first on the list for a few reasons. First, the price is unreal. Most of their palettes are around $20 and the quality of the shadows I’ve tried is crazy! They made the list because they are newer to the scene, and I don’t think most makeup lovers will have collected them yet. The pigmentation is amazing and I think any makeup lover would be so excited to unwrap one this year and add it to their collection. My favorite is the Warrior Palette that I got at Ulta for $20.

2. Brush Cleaning Matte and Brush Cleanser:

   Cleaning your brushes is the least fun part of doing your makeup, but it simply has to be done for healthy skin. Getting a makeup lover a tool to make the process quicker and easier would be amazing! I love this one from Real Techniques because it has a strap that my fingers slide through so it fits right onto the palm of my hand and stays put. It’s really inexpensive and works well! To make it a complete gift, add on a brush cleaner and you’re good to go. My favorite deep cleaning brush cleaner is this bar soap from Dr. Bronner’s. It cleanses my brushes and conditions them to feel so soft!

3. Makeup Lesson:

   If you know someone who is new to makeup or recently has been getting into it, I highly recommend booking them a makeup lesson with a professional makeup artist. It’s a great way for them to learn new techniques and can be extremely individualized depending on the person! If you are local to the Central Michigan area and would like to gift a makeup lesson with me to someone you love, feel free to email me and we can talk details! I also sell gift cards at the bottom of every page of my website (so scroll down)! 1 hour makeup lessons are $65 with me and I would love to spend time teaching you or someone you love.

4. Makeup Mirror or Vanity:

   A new mirror to look into while doing their makeup is a great makeup lover gift idea! I personally have one really similar to this one from Conair that was given to me as a gift YEARS ago. I love it because I can take it around my house and do my makeup in any location near a plug, because you guessed it…it also has a light! It’s double sided, one side being more magnified than the other and has lights on both sides.

5. Beauty Blender:

   It’s no secret that beauty blenders are awesome, but they can be a little pricey. Getting one as a stocking stuffer or an add-on to a gift would make any makeup junkie happy. It’s kind of like getting them the really expensive nice socks that they don’t like buying themselves; but we all need socks right?

6. Generation G Lipstick:

   I’m obsessed with these. My newest favorite everyday lip product is one of these Glossier Generation G Lipsticks in the shade ‘Cake’. If you have a light to medium skin tone, you can wear it with no makeup and look instantly more put together, or it will compliment whatever makeup look you have on. They give you the perfect lip stain look that I talk about loving all the time! I guarantee that whoever you buy it for, it will live in their purse as a go to product. If you have never shopped with Glossier before, you can click this link to get 10% off your first order!

7. Makeup Brushes:

   Can a makeup lover ever really have too many brushes? The answer is no, but I think you already knew that. I personally love the Real Techniques brushes and I’ve given them as gifts many times. I especially love their sets for gift giving because you can give more while keeping it budget friendly. The Sculpting set, Enhanced Eyes set, and the Flawless Face set would all be great options. I also really love this Setting brush and have three just in my makeup kit because it can be used in so many ways!

8. Ulta/Sephora/Target GC:

   Similar to yesterday’s Skincare Nerd’s Gift Guide, I guarantee that if you are giving a gift card to a makeup lover, they have a list of products they are dying to try but don’t want to spend the money on yet. Your money will be very gratefully received so they can try something new! You can always give gift cards with the intention of purchasing a particular type of product (like a new palette or foundation) but allowing them the ability to go in and see products and decide for themselves. I find that this takes away a little of the impersonal-ness that some people fear when gifting someone a gift card. If you tell them the intentions, the thought will not go unnoticed.

I hope this gift guide brought you some ideas for this holiday season. Be sure to come back tomorrow to see my Cookbook Gift Guide and to see how I purchase my cookbooks used and on a budget!

As always, have a beautiful day,

Andrea

Disclosure: Amazon links are Amazon Affiliate links meaning that I make a commission off the purchase of the product through my link. I would never recommend a product that I didn't love and all opinions are my own. I am thankful for you choosing to purchase through my links, as it helps me create more content for Andrea Fontana Beauty.

Recent Favorites

I haven’t shared my favorites in a couple months, so I thought I’d write today about what I’ve been loving recently. I feel like I’ve found some pretty great stuff in the last few months.

1. Acure Brightening Cleanser:

   I was shopping one day in target and ended up taking this guy home with me and I have to say I’m obsessed with it. The fresh lemon scent is awesome and I feel like it does a great job of gently chemically exfoliating every time I cleanse. Acure is one of my favorite clean brands that isn’t crazy expensive. So I love trying more and more out from them.

2. Native Deodorant:

   I picked up this deodorant on that same Target trip and I have to say, I am shocked at how much I love it. I got the lavender & rose scent and it’s heaven. Only con is that the actual deodorant is white so it can sometimes get on clothes if you’re not careful, but for an aluminum-free natural deodorant, it’s awesome! I have heard the other scents are just as amazing, so I can’t wait to try more. My previous natural deodorant gave me a rash over time, so I’ll keep you updated as I use this one longer. So far so good.

3. Acure Rosehip Oil:

   I just had to add this one for those of you who are new and don’t know my love affair for rosehip oil. Its probably tied for my favorite ingredient of all time with Glycolic Acid (probably not another shocker). I added it to this post, because I’ve been back in the habit of slathering my face with it every day as my moisturizer because I was recently experiencing more breakouts. Rosehip oil is my secret to fading the post-inflammatory hyper-pigmentation from acne scars.

4. La Roche Posay Effaclar Duo Dual Action Treatment Cream:

   This guy has also been getting some serious use lately, because of those pesky breakouts I just mentioned in the previous product. I try to apply this every night on my chin and jaw where I’m prone to breakouts, but have really been vigilant about it recently because my skin has been more broken out than usual. It contains Benzoyl Peroxide, but I don’t find that it dries me out ever.

5. Maybelline Soda Pop and Lemonade Craze Palettes:

   I purchased the ‘Soda Pop’ palette on a whim and fell in love with it. I say that because I NEVER buy drugstore eyeshadow. I just don’t find it to be worth the money usually. However, the ‘Soda Pop’ palette was so great that I bought it’s older sister ‘Lemonade Craze’ and I really love them both. I have been reaching for them every time I do my makeup. Click here to watch the Makeup Tutorial I did with the ‘Soda Pop’ Palette, and comment below if you want me to make one with the ‘Lemonade Craze’ one too.

6. L’Oreal Infallible Galaxy Holographic Lumiere Lip Gloss in Ethereal Gold:

   I picked this gloss up after seeing a friend who had it and I’ve been obsessed with it ever since. I keep it in my jacket and it has quickly become my favorite gloss for when I need something nude or my lips feel dry. It’s not sticky and gives off the coolest slight holographic look; it’s not too crazy, I promise.

7. Rituel de Fille Rare Light Luminizer in Anthelion:

   I always prefer a cream highlighter over a powder. There’s something about the dewyness that a cream product gives, that is hard to replicate with a powder and boy does this one deliver. I love it on my eyelids, inner corners of my eyes, above my cupid’s bow and obviously on my cheekbones.

8. Sherlock Mini Series

   Here’s a random favorite for you guys. If you haven’t watched the BBC mini-series Sherlock, GET ON IT. Don’t worry, I was also really, really late to the game on this one. Benedict Cumberbatch is SO freaking good in it. If you love mysteries and thrillers it’s a must see. Thank you to my boyfriend Mikey who is always making me watch the BEST tv shows and movies.

What have you been loving recently? Comment below and let me know what you’ve discovered! I love discovering new products because of you guys!

Have a great day,

Andrea

Disclosure: Amazon links are Amazon Affiliate links meaning that I make a commission off the purchase of the product through my link. I would never recommend a product that I didn't love and all opinions are my own. I am thankful for you choosing to purchase through my links, as it helps me create more content for Andrea Fontana Beauty.