Mona di Orio Archives · the beauty endeavor

Current Favorites & Product Obsessions

This week has been a huge roller coaster for many. I wanted to highlight a few products that have been in my current rotation. I...

March 22, 2020

Current Favorites and Product Obsessions

This week I've been rediscovering some old favorites & have a couple new things I've been really enjoying as well. It finally feels like Fall...

November 1, 2019

Current Favorites & Product Obsessions

Summer like weather is on the horizon for me here in South Texas. While I am moving to lighter skincare formulations and easy more melt-proof...

May 7, 2018

My Favorite Fall Fragrances

Fall and summer are my two favorite fragrance seasons. What makes a fragrance belong to a season is somewhat personal preference, as I do wear...

October 22, 2015

about me

Welcome to my blog! I'm Michelle an artist turned nurse and a long-time beauty addict. I created this blog to help anyone in their beauty endeavors by sharing swatches, comparing products, writing reviews of makeup, hair care, skin care & niche fragrances.

I have been an active member of various online beauty communities for over twenty years—starting with MakeupAlley. I love all areas of beauty from luxury to affordable. I look for what works with the best overall user experience.

I established this blog in 2014 and have written over 1200 posts. I've tried thousands of products over the decades making it easy to compare and cut through the marketing and hype.

I focus on well-aging. I have Rosacea and my skin is now dry as I'm going through normal aging and Perimenopausal hormonal changes. I was combo for years and have been through hormonal acne plus pregnancy changes. Being in my mid-forties I look for products that actually deliver on their results.

See more about me HERE

I have a ton of skincare & beauty tips on Instagram that aren't on this blog. Click below.