It was that wonderful time of year again, and by that I mean Sephora's VIB 20% event. I went with something that I could use everyday. This beautiful eye shadow quad by Clinique called Morning Java will flatter many a skin tone and it's easy to use because it's basically paint by numbers for your eyes as it is numbered from left to right with an instructional guide on the mirror. Of course you can mix it up any which way you'd like, but if you do suggested method it's quite beautiful on. (Pictures to come!) I have a memory of Clinique eye shadows lacking in color payoff and pigment, but the formula has changed quite dramatically.  Clinique has been known for their great skincare for eons now, but they are definitely making a name for themselves in color cosmetics as well. I have been wearing their cake liner for almost 20 years because it was the only liner back then that would stay put all day. These are nicely priced at $28 and they're a great size to just throw into your purse and go.  Wear this quad over a sheer primer and it will last and flatter just about any eye color.

I try to drink as much water as possible, though I could do better in that department. I try to wear sunscreen all year round, though I could probably do better there too. One thing I always do is take my makeup up before I go to bed. No matter how tired I am, no matter how late it is, no matter where I am - I always take it off. When I'm traveling I have taken to using cleansing wipes, or makeup remover pads but when I'm home I like to take my time and do a really good cleansing.

I am wholeheartedly a Neutrogena girl, but as my skin has gotten (ahem) more mature I've noticed I need to keep as much moisture in as possible without stripping my skin. I started using cleansing oils a few years ago and was pleasantly surprised at how gentle yet extremely efficient they are. My newest love in cleansing is cleansing balm. I've heard love stories about Eve Lom Cleansing balm, but since that's not in my price range I went for something more affordable and just as wonderful: Clinique Take the Day Off. This generous tub of balm melts away everything including stubborn eye makeup and sunscreen. I rub it on the same way you would cleansing oil and rinse away. It feels absolutely luxurious on the skin and a little goes a long way.