Sephora sale guide: skincare, makeup & hair - Episode 76
My beauty journey started with a few makeup staples from the drugstore and the Clinique counter at Nordstrom.
But I really got into beauty during my time at Nylon—especially skincare, right around the time that Glossier launched.
Whether you’re new to Sephora or just building your wishlist for the sale, these are the tried-and-true products that have earned a permanent spot in my rotation.
Create & consume:
What Austen is creating this week: blog post with fall outfit ideas to wear in NYC (I did a trend report in episode 68).
What Austen is consuming this week: Battle of the Bookstores by Ali Brady, cute romance about two rival bookstore owners who learn that their landlord is planning to combine their shops.
In this episode:
Skincare
Vitamin C serum that’s actually worth the money
Sunday Riley 15% Vitamin C Brightening Serum, $85
This one’s pricey—but worth every drop. When it comes to vitamin C, potency matters.
This formula combines vitamin C, AHA, and retinol for brighter, smoother skin.
It’s part of my morning routine and has a subtle, natural citrus scent that feels luxurious, not artificial.
Mini facial that takes 5 minutes
Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Peel Pads, $92
First introduced to me by Lindsay Silberman, these peel pads are my go-to for a quick skin reset.
One pack lasts forever since I only use them as needed—and they come in Ultra Gentle and Extra Strength versions for different skin types.
A giant tub of moisturizer that works on all skin types
First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream, $38
If you hate overpriced tiny moisturizers, meet your match.
This $38 jar lasts months, hydrates deeply, and works for all skin types—including sensitive skin.
A self-care moment you can refrigerate
Peter Thomas Roth Cucumber Detox Hydra Gel Eye Patches, $55
These soothing eye patches are perfect for a 15-minute daily reset.
You get 30 pairs in a reusable jar (eco-friendlier than single packs).
Pop them in the fridge for an even cooler refresh.
The solution to dry lips this winter
Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask in Original Berry, $25
An all-time favorite.
I’ve repurchased this for nearly a decade—it’s rich, long-lasting, and the perfect overnight treatment.
It’s also available in seasonal scents like pumpkin and hot cocoa!
Makeup
Priming moisturizer that will make your makeup look amazing
Bobbi Brown Vitamin Enriched Face Base Moisturizer & Primer, $25
The perfect last skincare step before makeup.
This thicker cream creates the smoothest base for foundation—especially if you have normal to dry skin.
The perfect medium foundation with a great shade range
Glossier Stretch Fluid Foundation, $34
Glossier leveled up with this one.
The formula is lightweight but buildable, creating that “your skin but better” finish—plus 32 shades make it easy to find your match.
Concealer made with skincare ingredients
Tower28 Swipe All Over Hydrating Serum Concealer, $22
If you’ve ever struggled with creasing, this serum concealer is a game-changer.
It blends seamlessly and hydrates at the same time.
Eyeshadow primer that won’t let you down
Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Eyeshadow & Concealer Primer, $25
After testing 15 top-rated primers for Byrdie, this one was the clear winner.
It locks in pigment and keeps shadow crease-free all day.
The ultimate lip liner pencil
Make Up For Ever Artist Wear Lip Liner in Wherever Walnut, $24
A universal, slightly mauve nude that flatters every skin tone.
There’s even a mini set for $39 if you want to test multiple shades.
The mascara that does it all
Ilia Beauty Limitless Lash Lengthening Mascara, $29
Lengthens, lifts, and separates without clumping.
The dual-sided wand is genius and works just as well on lower lashes.
Hair
No-fuss, 60-second hair mask
amika Flash Instant Shine Mask, $30
A quick, nourishing mask that fits into any shower routine.
Just 60 seconds for silky, shiny hair.
Hairspray that adds shine, not grease
ColorWow Extra Mist-ical Shine Spray, $29
This finishing spray adds that “fresh blowout” gloss without weighing your hair down.
Hairspray that holds without crunch
Davines This is a Medium Hair Spray, $45
Light hold, no stiffness, and used in salons nationwide.
It’s my go-to for long-lasting styles.
Gift ideas (and stocking stuffers!)
Glossier Perfume Discovery Set, $15 — great for fragrance lovers.
Touchland Hand Sanitizer Top 5 Set, $45 — luxe but practical.
Glow Recipe Mini Glass Balm Gift Set, $25 — four shades, perfect to split or gift together.
Saie Beauty Mini Dew Blush Trio, $30 — small but mighty.
Sephora Collection Bath Bomb Set, $10 — affordable and fun.
In my cart this sale
Anything I should definitely get or that you want to de-influence me on? Leave a comment and let me know!
Summary
The Sephora sale is the perfect excuse to stock up on beauty essentials, try something new, or finally splurge on that luxury serum you’ve had your eye on.
Whether you’re refreshing your skincare lineup, restocking makeup staples, or getting ahead on holiday gifting, these are the products I’d recommend most.
And if you’re shopping smart this season, be sure to check out episode 56, where I shared my top beauty favorites for under $25.
Listen on Spotify
Listen on Apple