As someone who has sensitive and acne-prone skin, finding beauty and makeup products that are not irritating and effective is sometimes a difficult feat. Over the years, however, after much in-depth research, discovery, and trial and error, I’ve managed to seek out and use products that not only prevent my skin from irritation but are long-lasting and worth the price.
bareMinerals Bare Pro Performance Wear Liquid Foundation SPF 20
I first discovered this product several years back while browsing the aisles of Ulta in hopes of finding a full-coverage foundation specifically designed for people with significant skin sensitivities. I had severe acne and recurrent breakouts at the time, so I had to be extra precautious about what encounters my pores. The “beauty” (no pun intended) of this bareMinerals Foundation is that it not only provides twenty-four-hour lightweight yet full coverage, but it also assists in clearing the skin and improving its overall appearance. Ingredients like Bambusa Arundinacea Stem Extract (Bamboo Extract) and Titanium Dioxide (suitable for acne-prone skin because it does not clog pores), and overall, all-natural and mineral composition (hence the name), is what makes this product stand out. Another bonus is that there are over two-dozen shades in this line (I wear Nutmeg 24) to choose from. Even though sunscreen is included in its formula, I still apply Elta MD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 sunblock before administering the bareMinerals Foundation for extra coverage from the sun’s harmful rays.
Tatcha, The Silk Canvas: Filter Finish Protective Primer
Primer is fundamental when applying foundation or makeup in general because it further prevents the products from seeping into your skin despite how successful they may be in blocking this very action. When ordering Tatcha skincare items, I also received a few samples of their other products in the mail. To my success, this is how I was introduced to their primer. Before, I had immense difficulty with primers because of how they dried out my skin and consisted of ingredients detrimental to my skin type. I use this primer as the first “layered” step in my routine after a thorough face cleansing: wash and moisturize, sunblock, primer, foundation. Tatcha’s primer provides a protective barrier for the skin while simultaneously evening out its texture and tone. A blend of silk extracts and powder allows for simple makeup application while retaining moisture and hydration.
Runway Spring 2020 Marc Jacobs: Three-Piece Essential Set
As a limited-edition set of “runway essentials” from the Marc Jacobs Beauty Spring 2020 collection, this pack includes a coconut gel highlighter, lavender eyeliner, and “Hi-Shine” lip gloss as stated on the product’s package. Recently purchasing these items, I’ve decided that this set has to be one of my most favorite of all time. The dew highlighter incorporates coconut water and Withania Somnifera Root Extract (Ashwagandha), a botanical that aids in skin hydration, collagen, and natural oil production, perfectly infuses with the makeup I wear. Not much is needed to give you an extra glow. Less than a dime-sized amount from a single pump is required because of its concentration.
Similarly, the “Hi-Shine” lip gloss, which includes peppermint oil that helps alleviate chapping, is a success. I was honestly hesitant about the eyeliner, due to the exciting color, wondering if it would match my preference of a minimalistic makeup style, and because the eye area is the most delicate. Luckily, the product has blended with every look I’ve created without suffering any irritation due to its specific formulae like the other two Marc Jacob items included in this set: all sulfate, paraben, and phthalates free.
When I want to give my look a “pop,” like Marc Jacobs’s “Hi-Shine” gloss, I also turn to Maybelline’s Lifter Gloss in the shade Crystal 010. This product leaves my lips feeling smooth and hydrated because of its Hyaluronic Acid Formula. Hyaluronic acid keeps the lips moisturized and encourages collagen production, a vital protein that gives the skin structure essential in skin health. As we age, the less collagen we produce.
Garnier Akin Active, Micellar Cleansing Water All-in-1 Cleanser and Makeup Remover
Proper makeup removal is necessary for preventing clogged pores and potential breakouts. Micellar water, first developed in 1991, consists of glycerin (a skin hydrator because of its molecular compound that attracts water), purified water, and gentle surfactants whose purpose is to rid of and cleanse material on the skin and in general. I use a substantial amount of Micellar Water with several cotton pads to remove makeup, especially those trapped in crevices, like around the nose area. No scrubbing is necessary either, which can lead to (severe) irritation. After, I continue with my standard skincare regimen to wash off any excess makeup.
*The products on this list may not work for you and all opinions regarding these products are my own. This article is not a paid or sponsored post. It is important to consider consulting a licensed skincare professional and conduct intense research before attempting any of these products and introducing new products to your skin, in general.