CategorySkincare
This serum seems to have some great benefits, like hydrating the skin and acting as a primer for makeup.
Applying a few drops of this serum not only hydrates your skin but also helps your makeup last longer by preventing it from being absorbed into your skin. Additionally, it gives your skin a healthy glow, making your foundation look more natural and skin-like.
This helps protect your skin from dehydration and also allows makeup to blend smoothly. What's even better is that this moisturizer is suitable for all skin types, whether you have oily, dry, or combination skin. It's versatile and can help moisturize your skin effectively.
CategoryFoundation
Finding the perfect foundation can be quite a challenge, but I've discovered one that I believe is excellent for all skin tones and types: the Revlon ColorStay Foundation. They offer a wide range of shades to match various skin tones, including options for combination and oily skin. The one I personally use is designed for normal to dry skin, which matches my skin type perfectly.
CategoryConcealer
I use the Nyx Can't Stop Won't Stop concealer in the shade Cappuccino. I apply it precisely where I need it, which is typically around the inner corners of my eyes, where I may have a bit of discoloration, and also on the outer corners. Additionally, I like to dab a small amount on my forehead to even out that area and a bit on my chin.
It's worth noting that this concealer dries quite quickly, so I make sure to blend it almost immediately after applying. This ensures a smooth and flawless finish.
I've also been using the Elf Hydrating Camo Concealers, which are not only budget-friendly but also tend to crease less. These concealers are a great choice, especially if you have fine lines under your eyes, as they provide extra hydration.
If you want to create a bright under-eye look, I recommend using another concealer or even the same one but in a different shade. For this purpose, I use the Black Opal Brightening Concealer in the shade Latte. This concealer is specifically designed to brighten the skin.
When using a brightening concealer like this, it's essential to apply a small amount because the goal is to create brightness. I typically use a beauty sponge to blend it out, being careful not to overdo it to maintain a natural look.
CategoryBlush
I generally prefer using cream blushes because they tend to be highly pigmented when you find the right one, and they also have better staying power on the skin. One cream blush that I would recommend is the Nyx Blush Stick, which comes in two different shades in one and is also quite affordable.
When applying cream blush, I opt for a dense brush because it helps to pack on the pigment effectively. However, I don't apply the blush directly to my skin. Instead, I load the brush with the blush and then gently apply it. I find that this method provides a softer and more natural finish.
I also like to use the Milani Cheek Kiss Liquid Blush, although it's marketed as both a blush and a highlighter. I usually use it as a highlighter because it's a bit too light for my skin tone. The shade I prefer is 05 Luminoso, which happens to be my favorite highlighter shade from Milani.
For application, I follow a similar technique as I do with cream blush. Instead of applying it directly to my skin, I apply it to the back of my hand and then use my brush or fingers to blend it onto my skin. This approach helps me achieve a more natural and controlled highlight.
CategorySetting Powder
I start with the Wet and Wild Photo Focus Setting Powder. It's a translucent setting powder, which means it's very natural-looking on the skin. This powder is particularly beginner-friendly because it doesn't create excess powder residue under the eyes and feels comfortable even if you happen to apply a bit too much.
CategoryFinishing Powder
Another important step in my makeup routine is using a finishing powder. This step is particularly helpful for people who have skin texture concerns, such as wrinkles, acne, or discoloration, as it helps to smoothen the skin and create a flawless finish.
I recommend the Maybelline Fit Me Loose Finishing Powder for this purpose. I personally use the shade Deep, but it's essential to choose a shade that matches your concealer shade.
When applying the finishing powder, I follow a similar technique as with the setting powder. I ensure there are no clumps, and I focus this powder precisely where I have texture concerns.
CategoryEyeshadow
I absolutely adore the Milani Gilded Mini Eyeshadow Palettes for their simplicity and ease of use. What's great is that all their mini palettes transition smoothly from light to dark shades. The one I'm currently using is the Gilded Mini Palette in the shade "Call Me Old-Fashioned."
CategoryEyeliner
I absolutely love the Essence Super Fine Eyeliner because it not only comes at a budget-friendly price but also delivers excellent results. This eyeliner boasts a fine felt tip that provides rich pigmentation, making it a go-to choice for a captivating eyeliner look.
One of the standout features is its beginner-friendly design, making it easy to use. To complete my eye makeup, I simply outline the outer and inner corners of my eyes and create a winged look.
CategoryBrows
Nyx Stick It Thick It Brow Mascara, which is great for those with naturally fluffy eyebrows. You can use this mascara on its own by brushing your eyebrow hairs upwards to give them a fuller look.
Nyx Eyebrow Pen to fill in any sparse areas, this combination works wonders in achieving well-defined brows without too much effort.
CategoryLips
I highly recommend including a brown lip liner in your makeup kit, and one of my favorites is the Nyx Professional Makeup Lip Liner in the shade Espresso. It's a versatile brown shade that complements various lip looks perfectly.
NYX Butter Gloss in the shade Angel Food Cake. This gloss is beginner-friendly, as it offers long-lasting color and keeps your lips moisturized. Plus, it's incredibly affordable, making it a must-have in your collection.
CategorySetting Spray
I also suggest adding the Milani Make It Last Sunscreen to your kit. It has SPF 30, providing protection for your skin while also serving as a finishing mist. This mist helps your makeup stay in place longer and gives your skin a beautiful dewy finish.
CategoryMakeup Tool
I prefer using a beauty sponge to blend this foundation. Specifically, I use one from Elf Cosmetics, which is not only affordable but also does an excellent job of blending all my complexion products seamlessly. If you haven't tried a beauty sponge before, I highly recommend giving it a shot. However, if a beauty sponge isn't your go-to tool, I suggest using a dense brush as an alternative.