In today’s world of beauty, we’re overwhelmed with ever-changing makeup trends that are no longer popular by the time you buy them. Throughout my four years of college, I’ve embarked on a journey of trial and error, perfecting my approach to makeup and skincare. Now, as a second-semester senior, I’m excited to finally share that I’ve found the one — the perfect makeup routine. Let’s unpack:
PREP & Prime
Before starting any makeup routine, prepping your face is VITAL. Here are my non-negotiables: begin with Caudalie’s Resveratrol-Lift Serum, followed by Youth to the People’s Polypeptide Cream. After this has settled into your skin, it’s time to go in with your primer. I just recently bought the REFY Face Primer and I’m obsessed. It glides onto your face so smoothly, leaving the perfect canvas to begin your routine.
The Good Stuff
After I’m primed, I use my moist beauty blender to pat Charlotte Tilbury’s Beautiful Skin Foundation in. Even if you have combination skin like me, this leaves the most perfectly-dewy finish all day long. I follow this with Bobbi Brown’s Intensive Serum Concealer, which — OMG — brightens my under-eyes like no other product has. Next, I use my Anastasia Cream Bronzer and my Rare Beauty Liquid Blush (yes, I did hop on the bandwagon with this one). I set all of my makeup with Laura Mercier’s Translucent Setting Power, which is crucial to avoid looking oily and keeping my products stay on. Finally, I use the Diorshow Pump ‘N’ Volume Mascara — if you’re going to splurge on a mascara, make it be this one.
…And, Scene.
One thing that I didn’t put much emphasis on until recently was my post-makeup routine. Using makeup removing wipes are harsh on your skin, let alone leaving makeup on overnight. My new holy grail is Drunk Elephant’s Makeup Melting Butter Cleanser. It’s good for your skin and does an excellent job of getting your makeup off — even waterproof mascara.
The last four years have taught me that it’s not about following makeup trends or putting on products that you think others will like — it’s about finding something that makes you feel great. After lots of trial and error, I’ve found a routine that always works for me. It’s a reminder that beauty comes from feeling confident inside, and makeup is just a fun way to boost that confidence.