A Self-Admitted Beauty Junkie Reviews Sephora’s ‘Must Haves’

Sephora is a magical, wonderful, and heavenly place… yeah, only if I wasn’t broke as hell. In a place like Sephora, it’s easy to get lost in the billow of expensive beauty products. Sometimes you feel the need to literally buy everything. But the more thrifty (a nicer way of saying “broke”) shoppers tend to ask the dreaded question, is it really worth it? Well, I’m here to help you with that monumental decision: to buy or not to buy. Coming from a girl who’s called Sephora her home since the sixth grade, I’ve tried almost everything imaginable. So, to help you out, I’ve listed some of Sephora’s most famous products and my take on their worthiness of being in your makeup collection and eating your money.

NARS Blush In “Orgasm”

Ahh, no “cult classic” Sephora products list could be completed without this one. In a nutshell, this is a blush that has a peachy-pink base color with a gold sheen. No doubt that this blush goes on very nicely and lasts all night, but some complain that there is too much shimmer. Additionally, this blush looks amazing with a tan and creates the perfect “sunburnt” look. I’ve also found “Orgasm” to be suitable for many skin tones. However, some have complained about too much shimmer. Personally, I love the shimmer, and I think it gives off a nice sheen, but ladies who prefer matte blushes might complain.

Is it worth it?
If you like shimmer, absolutely. If not, then I’d pass. It’s totally worth checking out at Sephora though if you haven’t already. ($30.00)

Alternative?
NARS blush in “Amour”, like “Orgasm” but without the shimmer.

Bareminerals Mineral Veil

I have been using this stuff for years. This is a loose translucent setting powder that keeps your foundation in place, while keeping your skin looking fresh. Mineral Veil is amazing because it never ever cakes up, like ever. It won’t look or feel heavy on the skin. Use a lot, use a little, use as much as you need.

Is it worth it?
Absolutely. Yes. ($21.00)

Benefit Benetint

Benetint is a cheek/lip stain that kind of resembles a nail polish bottle. It has a rosy color to make you look naturally flushed. However, because of its liquid-y formula and dip brush applicator, it can get tricky to apply. It’s not very blendable and can leave spots on your skin from where it was first applied. Cute, but not cute enough to buy. Better to leave this one on the shelves. (Fun Fact: it was originally invented as nipple tint, which might be the better use for it… if you’re into that kind of stuff.)

Is it worth it?
Nah (unless you want rosy nipples) ($30.00)

Dior Diorshow

In 2002, legendary makeup artist Pat McGrath used a toothbrush on models’ eyelashes backstage at a Dior fashion show to get the perfect false-lash effect. As a result, they formulated a mascara that would recreate the same effect. Alas, Diorshow was born. I’ve sworn by this mascara since I was 12. I don’t normally go for high end mascaras because they need to be replaced so frequently, but this one really is worth the money. Diorshow gives you HUGE lashes, and makes the eyes look gorgeous. Seriously the best mascara I’ve ever tried.

Is it worth it?
One hundred percent. ($27.50)

Hourglass Ambient Lighting Powders

These powders are the shit. I own the palette and I love it. Essentially, these are finishing powders that are supposed to give your face a glow. They look flawless on the skin. Not only do they give your complexion a beautiful lit from within look, but also blur the skin and give it a softer appearance. Some uses of the Ambient Lighting powders include setting foundation, warming up the skin, highlighting, and giving the skin a dewy finish. They never cake up, and the skin stays nice and hydrated. There are six shades to choose from, and different shades serve different purposes, depending on your skin tone. If you really want to invest in these amazing powders, get the palette. You get three different colored powders that really let you explore their versatility. A truly unique product. 10/10, would recommend.

Is it worth it? Personally, I think so. Pricey, but they last forever! ($45.00 for individual powder, $58.00 for palette)

Urban Decay Naked Palette

Another favorite amongst women everywhere. Although the Naked is a pretty good deal (twelve decent sized, good quality eye shadows for around 50 bucks), I think it is waaay overhyped. While it’s not necessarily a bad palette, I do find myself sometimes playing with it; the color selection is rather poor. It only comes with two matte shades out of the entire palette. Mattes shouldn’t be neglected like this! Bummer.

Is it worth it?
I’m gonna say no. But if you have the money and don’t mind shimmery eye shadows, I don’t see why you shouldn’t pick it up. ($54.00)

Alternative?
Lorac Pro palette. Another neutrals palette that’s got more shades (eight of them are matte!!), has great quality shadows, and is more affordable. ($42.00, sold at Ulta)

The Beauty Blender

I gotta tell you, this thing is incredible. That being said, I wore makeup for years without one, and it still looked fabulous. However, it does manage to blend your foundation flawlessly and really work it into the skin.

Is it worth it?
If you take your makeup game seriously, invest in it. Or if you’re simply curious and wouldn’t mind spending the money to see what it has to offer, go for it! But if you don’t feel like spending the money and don’t see anything wrong with your current makeup routine, you can live without it. ($20.00)