[Sephora Haul] – AMAZING Products from Laura Mercier, Josie Maran, and Murad
On Friday, I went to Sephora and picked out some new face and skincare products that I’m very excited to share with all of you as I have gotten a chance to try all of them and share my thoughts.
1- Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20 – Oil Free – Laura Mercier is famously known for having the best of the best in terms of their tinted moisturizers. Although I’m not one to really wear a “tinted moisturizer,” I have to admit that I’ve been curious to see how amazing this product really is (or if it’s just a bunch of hype). I also wanted to see if this is a product that I’d be interested in carrying in my professional makeup kit for my clients.
When I was looking at all the different shades, I was immediately approached by a Sephora “artist” (not sure their exact title) trying to assist me in making a selection. I told her that I am a makeup artist, which was a SOCIAL CUE that I do not need any direct help (as I can figure out stuff by myself obviously), but she did NOT seem to get the message and still insisted on color matching me. At that point, I figured, okay she is just doing her job and she is probably more familiar with the product than I am, so I’m open to a second opinion. She seemed pretty confident I was the “Sand” shade, which on my hand did look nice.
When I actually went home to use it, I realized it was just way too dark for my fair complexion. (At Sephora, we only tested on my hand, which obviously is NOT the best indication because the hand is always darker than the face in most cases. Lesson learned, just kindly brush away the Sephora assistance and play with the products by myself).
(I was able to wear it still and make it work, just had to strategically blend the product and powder accordingly). Besides the shade being slightly off upon application, the product itself is truly FANTASTIC. I have to say, I am pretty impressed by it. The coverage is good enough for it to serve as a light foundation (which is how I would be using it) and it really gives my skin a healthy, fresh finish. Somebody actually did take note and comment on my skin looking good when I wore it, which to me was an indicator that it was doing something above and beyond.
I went back to Sephora the following day to exchange it and I swapped it out for the “Bisque” shade instead which blends PERFECTLY!!! I am so happy to finally invest in this product as it truly is worth it!
2- Josie Maran Protect Daily Sun Protection Argan Oil Infused SPF 40+ To Go - Okay, talk about another AMAZING product. Been wanting to try this for quite some time, as I always stumble upon it when I’m at a Sephora to scope out new products.
This time I actually went ahead about bought it. I would have probably bought the bigger size if they carried it, but I guess it’s good to start with the “To Go” version to try it out.
I’ve been wanting to try this for a number of reasons..1) High quality of SPF (I always aim for a minimum of 30 for the face…ideally 50-60 range if possible), 2) I already am a HUGE fan of Josie Maran’s argan oil products (I have tried the actual oil and recently purchased her oil cleanser), 3) This product serves as a moisturizer, which I would use under makeup as a part of my skincare prep.
Can I just tell you that I noticed a difference in my skin at the end of the night after I took off my makeup? I only tried this out for a day, under a liquid foundation and I swear my skin looked MUCH clearer as compared to the beginning of the day. I know I shouldn’t jump to conclusions and automatically assume that this product gave me results that quickly, but honestly, my skin looked more radiant. Over time, I’ll know if it’s this product that’s really giving me the positive effects or not. (I have a feeling it really is though)! The consistency is lightweight lotion, not an actual oil, meaning it’s not greasy and absorbs quickly.
3- Murad Acne Spot Treatment - So far, I like this product and the whole concept behind it. I’m definitely in favor of acne spot treatment products, especially being that I find my skin is breakout out constantly. (It really needs all the help it can get)! I have only tried this out two times so far, it seems to be helping and I’m sure it’s good as a preventative product, but it’s a little too soon for me to make a real judgment call. I plan on using this consistently everyday, just over the areas of my skin that need that extra attention.
[Has anyone tried any of these products?]

July 11, 2011 at 9:22 AM
The Josie Maran Argan oil is next on my list to try. Currently I am at the end of a different brand called Agadir, and Im excited to try something that I assume will blow that one out of the water:)
Nicole
July 11, 2011 at 6:03 PM
I have never heard of these products before and am excited to try them based on your thorough review. Does the Argan oil have anti-aging properties?
August 4, 2011 at 12:00 AM
Yes, it’s great for the skin! Keeps the skin smooth and supple over time! :)
July 16, 2011 at 12:30 AM
[...] primer with a bronze tint. I’m sure there are other brands that already carry such a thing, but last week while I was in Sephora picking out some new items for myself, I came across the Too Faced Primed & Poreless SPF 20 Bronze Tint Skin Smoothing Face Primer. [...]