After trying over 120 Sephora products, my 54-year-old mom and I have identified these 17 as the ultimate game changers.

      Millennials and Gen Zers were raised during the era of YouTube conventions, a time when events such as Comic-Con, BravoCon, and Beautycon emerged, allowing fandoms to transition from online communities to real-world interactions. While there are numerous fan groups out there (does anyone recall Vine's Magcon?), the beauty industry is often too expansive to be represented by a single convention. In response to this challenge, Sephoria was launched in 2018, bringing dedicated Sephora customers together with their favorite beauty founders, influencers, and brands. I had the opportunity to experience this beauty paradise firsthand. With master classes from celebrity makeup artists and hairstylists like Mario Dedivanovic (Makeup by Mario) and Chris Appleton, plus meet-and-greet sessions with creators and internet personalities like Claudia Sulewski (the mind behind Cyklar), attendees were treated to an abundance of beauty delights. Additionally, the ample tote of products included with our tickets ensured no shortage of beauty euphoria at the convention center in downtown Los Angeles. As I sifted through my surprise bag filled with top-selling perfumes, travel-sized products, exciting skincare launches, and more, I realized I needed to share the bounty to fully try everything out.

      I was fortunate because my parents and some of their close friends were arriving in NYC soon after my return from LA, which meant I had a few extra hands to help test my collection. After weeks of experimenting with over 120 Sephora products, my (very selective) mom and I collaborated to identify which items we would purchase again. Below are our selected favorites from Jo Malone, Makeup by Mario, and others.

      **Jo Malone Raspberry Ripple Cologne**

      My mom has always been a fan of Jo Malone fragrances, though she isn't fond of every scent the brand has released. Typically, she tends to dislike sweet fragrances, so I was surprised when she sent me an enthusiastic message about this fruity scent. "I love the new Jo Malone Raspberry Ripple," she said, appreciating its fresh sweetness. The berry notes are complemented by white musk, one of her favorite scents, which could explain her unexpected fondness for it. It's quickly become a favorite for spring and summer.

      **Phlur Honey Moon Eau de Parfum**

      The moment I caught a whiff of this floral perfume at Sephoria, I knew it would be my go-to for summer. The honeyed citrus aroma from Phlur transports me to the beach—perhaps because I wore it in Miami just days after trying it at the convention. The fragrance, featuring a mix of mandarin, manuka honey, sandalwood, orange blossom, and saffron, epitomizes a tropical vacation in a bottle. If you're hesitant to buy the full size, grab a travel size instead; you'll want to bring it on all your trips.

      **Ouai St. Barts Hair and Body Mist**

      One of my mom's friends excitedly messaged me after grabbing a mini version of the Ouai St. Barts Hair and Body Mist from my Sephoria haul, praising its "light, tropical, warm scent that's long-lasting." She even shared that someone recognized the fragrance immediately, claiming it as their favorite too, and she’s planning to buy the full size.

      **Dieux Instant Angel Lipid-Rich Firming Moisturizer**

      Editors rave about Dieux's noncomedogenic moisturizer for giving a heavenly complexion with just one layer. It's rich and medium-thick, which I prefer as a night cream rather than a base for makeup, but my skin always feels grateful for it come morning.

      **ISDIN Fusion Water Magic SPF 40 Sunscreen**

      I recently tested Isdin's multitasking sunscreen on a warm trip to Miami and not only achieved excellent sun protection—essential for my burn-prone skin after a lengthy NYC winter—but was also amazed by its hydrating and smoothing effects. It also worked wonderfully as a makeup primer, ensuring my foundation applied smoothly without pilling or creasing.

      **Ultra Violette Sheen Screen SPF 50 Hydrating Sunscreen Lip Balm**

      One of my top skin concerns is burning my lips in the sun (if you've experienced it, you know the struggle), so I always try to use SPF lip balms. Previously, that was a chore, as many were gloopy and left an unattractive white residue while tasting unpleasant. Then glossy lip balms like Ultra Violette's entered the market. The Sheen Screen provides SPF 50 without the sticky residue, offering a beautiful pink, sparkly gloss. I’ll take ten, please!

      **Tower 28 SOS Daily Hypochlorous Acid Spray**

      Dealing with rosacea and eczema flare-ups after trying new products, along with post-workout errands, this spray from Tower 28 feels tailor-made for me. With just three ingredients—water, hypochlorous acid, and sodium chloride—it keeps breakouts and irritation at bay with just a few spritzes. It’s now a