Best of 2021: Makeup, Skincare and Lifestyle #TakeMyMoney

January 18, 2022

Best of 2021: Makeup, Skincare and Lifestyle #TakeMyMoney

Am I late with my yearly favourites again? Yes. But it's always better late than never.

2021 was a super exciting and eventful year for me, which was why I disappeared from this space for a bit. However, I'm making it a goal to post more frequently in 2022. Enough with the small talk, here are my 2022 beauty and lifestyle favourites:

Makeup Favourites

All-take mood palette

In 2021, the brand that won my heart (and wallet) was Peripera. Whether you're new to K-beauty or a Peripera addict like me, the All Take Mood palette is a makeup must-have.

Each palette delivers in terms of pigmentation and affordability. With 8 shades in each palette, it's versatile enough to achieve different styles every day. In fact, I've been using this palette every day for work and school.

If you can't tell from my collection, I have an obsession.

Among my current collection, my faves are Better Carroting and Burnt Breeze. With lighter shades, Better Carroting palette an easy neutral palette to achieve a fresh natural makeup look. In contrast, Burnt Breeze — which lowkey reminds me of Urban Decay’s Naked Heat Palette — is great for a sultry makeover. With the darker brown shades, you can accentuate your eyes with a perf smokey eye look.

I'm Meme Topping Glitter Duo

I am obsessed with this gem that found this gem towards the end of 2021.

Along with the rising trend of Singles Inferno, I was inspired by Jiyeon's makeup to add glitter under my eyes for a sparkly eye effect.

I'm impressed by the durability of the glitter shade. Typically, it lasts through the day unless I've teared up from a yawn. I'd recommend getting the glitter applicator for a precise finish or you can use a small shadow brush!

The biggest downside is the hassle it takes to remove it at the end of the day.

ESQA Flawless Concealer

I love this concealer so much that I've repurchased two bottles of it.

Those looking for a cruelty-free concealer option should try out the ESQA Flawless Concealer. It glides onto the skin and provides good coverage. However, I wouldn't recommend this for those with dry skin because it can get patchy.

Peripera x Teteum Ink The Velvet Tint

It's cute and it's comfy on the lips, what's not to love?

I was never a fan of matte lipsticks but these tints are an exception. They have a semi-matte finish and sit comfortably on my lips. Unlike most matte tints, these are non-drying and don't leave a patchy look.

PSST..You can read my full review of the Peripera x Teteum Pericamping collection here.

Too Cool For School Art Class by Rodin Contour palette

I never understood the hype about this palette until I finally tried it out for myself. This is probably one of the first few palettes that I've managed to hit pan. From the packaging to the contour shades, I love every bit of it. It gives a very soft touch, but still helps to shape the face.

Skincare Favourites

TBH, I didn't have that many skincare favourites in 2021. Here are the few note-worthy mentions:

Laneige Cream Skin Refiner

Did I buy this because of the hype? Yes. But I ended up using it as my daily toner.

After a long day at work, the last thing I want to do is a 7-step skincare routine. The Cream Skin Refiner combines both the toner and moisturiser step, so good news to those who are lazy like me!!

Laneige has a way of making their products feel luxurious and this product was no exception. In the bottle, the Cream Skin Refiner has a silky and milky like texture that'll draw you to use the product.Dry patches were a frequent occurrence for me in 2022 but this essence helped with that issue. It's convenient and gentle on the skin, PLUS it absorbs onto the skin quickly.

Etude House Serum

This is another repurchase worthy item, and the biggest perk: It's less than 5 dollars! Sis stans a budget-friendly lash serum. I love this because it helps keep my lashes healthy after a full day of wearing Heroine Make's Mascara.

Fragrance

Zara Orchid Perfume

I discovered Zara perfumes thanks to TikTok and at this point, there's no turning back.

Among the different perfumes I've tried out and bought, Orchid is my ultimate pick. It's feminine and fresh and makes me feel like I have my life together even when I don't.

Many of you may know that Zara perfumes are an affordable dupe for popular high-end fragrances. For Orchid, it's commonly referred to as a dupe for Victoria Secret's Bombshell.

Lifestyle Favourites

K-Drama: Hometown Cha Cha Cha

I'm all about the lighthearted and wholesome vibes, and this K-drama gave me that warm fuzzy feeling every week. The chemistry between the characters, their wardrobe and the feel-good storyline was *chef's kiss*. I loved watching this every week as a form of destressing because it never failed to make me smile.

Jewellery: Curious Creatures Herringbone Necklace

I've received so many compliments about this necklace. It's so simple, yet it adds that finishing touch to the overall look.

I love how this fits nicely on my neck and accentuates my collarbones. It's a stunning rose gold colour (there's also gold and silver if that's what you prefer) that goes well with any outfit. Watch my try-on haul here.

Jewellery: Acrylic Rings

Fascinatingly, these rings receive the most compliments from guys. I often get asked where I get them from and BESTIES, they're from Shopee. But the best part is that they're less than $2 for a set of 5 #MajorCheapThrills.