Today I’m sharing my go-to, essential makeup products & tools. I use them for my natural everyday look, but also for when I’m going out. It’s taken me a long time to finally settle on these products (mostly trial and error), but now you can avoid those terrible makeup mishaps.
You probably don’t need everything on this list, but having the essentials at your disposal isn’t a bad idea either!
prep
Alcohol-free Rose Petal Witch Hazel with Aloe Vera | Thayers
I use this as a toner immediately after I wash my face. Face washes can usually leave your skin dry and irritated which will make your makeup looking cake-y. This toner leaves my skin feeling AND looking healthy after every wash. Witch Hazel is a plant that contains chemicals called tannin — the leaf, bark, and twigs are used to make medicine. When applied directly to the skin, witch hazel might help reduce swelling, help repair broken skin, and fight bacteria.
Oil Control Moisturizer SPF 30 | Cetaphil
I always use a moisturizer with a little SPF which I apply AFTER the Witch Hazel toner, but BEFORE I apply my makeup. This is to lock in my skin’s moisture and protect it from the sun’s harmful UV rays.
products
PhotoReady Insta-Fix Makeup | Revlon
I’ve tried almost every foundation out there, but nothing compares to this one. Its lightweight, long-lasting, matte finish conceals my imperfections, and whether I need little or full coverage, it gives me an instantly perfected, retouched look.
Hoola Matte Bronzer | Benefit Cosmetics
I use this matte bronzer for my “day” look, instead of using a contour powder, to achieve a sunkissed glow. For an easy, everyday look, sweep across your cheekbones, forehead, chin, or anywhere you want to warm up your complexion.
Prep + Prime Transparent Finishing Powder | Mac
For years I’ve used a colored pressed powder to “finish” my look. But it would always change my foundation color to one that no longer matched my true skin color. And then I discovered translucent powders. This is a game changer. Not only does this powder give me a “matte” look, it’s light and silky, giving me an invisible way to set my makeup.
Powder Blush – Taupe | Mac
This universal blush color can be used with any skin color to give you that sultry, contoured look. Apply a little for a subtle shadow, or apply a lot for that sculpted look.
They’re Real! Tinted Lash Primer (optional) | Benefit Cosmetics
The best thing about this primer is its brush. It separates every little lash I have and makes my eyelashes look fuller and longer. It’s not necessary to use a primer, but if you’re looking for boosted length, separation, and volume, it doesn’t hurt to start!
Better Than Sex Mascara | Too Faced
My mascara of choice!
3D BROWtones Instant Color Highlights | Benefit Cosmetics
I use this to fill-in my brows. This gel in particular has a warmer hue to it, rather than other brow gels and powders on the market that are usually ashy in tone. I apply with an angled brow brush to control how much product I use.
tools
PRO Airbrush #55 | Sephora Collection
I swear by the Sephora Collection makeup brushes. I use this particular one to apply my foundation. It gives you a seamless, airbrushed look, and the synthetic bristles do not break or fall off the brush.
Classic Double Ended – Shape & Highlight #204 | Sephora Collection
I use this to apply bronzer or contour. Use the angled side to shape, and the round side to blend and highlight.
Pro Allover Powder Brush #61 | Sephora Collection
Use this for your translucent powder.
The Eyelash Curler | Kevyn Aucoin
I know, I know. This thing can be scary. But it can really make your eyes pop and appear bigger. Practice makes perfect, but an eyelash curler will become your best friend. Even if you’re not in the mood to wear mascara, just curl your lashes and you’re good to go!
Classic Double Ended – Filler & Spoolie #208 | Sephora Collection
Use this to fill in your brows.
What are some of your favorite beauty secrets?
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