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Makeup is more than just a routine for me. It is a form of daily therapy and sometimes just a fun way to pass the time. When I master the perfect beat, it puts me into a genuine flow state. I take my makeup seriously and am always on the lookout for products that last all day, blend seamlessly and never look cakey. The best makeup is not always the most expensive or the trendiest product on TikTok. As we grow, our makeup routines grow with us, influenced by trends, seasons and personal preferences.
I have spent years figuring out what products work best for my skin and what makes me feel the most confident. Makeup allows women to express themselves and feel beautiful in their own way. Today, I am excited to share my current makeup routine and the products I use to make me feel my best every day, and I hope it helps other girls feel their best when leaving the house!
Whether you are experienced with makeup or just starting out, finding the perfect routine doesn’t have to feel so overwhelming. There is no right or wrong way to do makeup. Every routine is personal and ever-changing. Some days I do a full face, and other days I go for a bare, clean-girl look. Below are the products I swear by and how I achieve an effortless look that last me from morning classes to evening plans.
SteP 1: SKIN PREP
It is always important to start with a good hydrated face, giving yourself a clean canvas to start your makeup; removing remaining dirt and oils. Prepping your skin before you start your makeup allows your makeup to have better application, and prevents dry skin to cause makeup to be patchy. Good skincare also protects skin from clogged pores and random breakouts.
For me, skin care is a crucial part of my makeup routine. A good base makes all the difference. I always start by washing my face for a refreshed and clean base. I use the CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser every morning and night. Once a week, I incorporate the INKEY List Salicylic Acid Cleanser to help remove blackheads. This product should not be used daily, but it is effective for deep cleaning.
After cleansing, I use a cotton round with The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating and Brightening Daily Toner to remove excess dirt and leftover makeup. This exfoliating toner helps smooth the skin and prep it for makeup.
Hydration is key before applying makeup. Moisturized skin prevents dry patches from showing up and reduces the likelihood of your makeup looking cakey by the end of the day. I use the CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion, which is my holy grail for dry skin. In the mornings, I also apply the INKEY List Caffeinated De-puffing and Dark Circle Eye Cream to reduce dark circles and puffiness.
Step 2: lashes, lashes, lashes
Every girl is different, but for me, lashes are a must in my routine. On days when I have lashes on, I barely need any other makeup because the lashes do all the work. I use lash clusters that typically last about a week or longer, so my lashes are usually already done.
Every eye shape is different as well, but I find that D-curl lashes give me a natural cat-eye look. But it is always fun to follow different lash maps, find what best fits you. For a budget-friendly option, I use the Pawotence Lash Extension Kit from Amazon to do my lashes at home.
Step 3: Makeup Application
If I am doing a full face, I start with the NARS Light Reflecting Skin Improving Medium Coverage Foundation. Shade selection varies by skin tone, and it is best to get color-matched in-store at Sephora.
On lighter makeup days, I skip foundation and use the Tower 28 Swipe All-Over Hydrating Serum Concealer. Its serum-based formula feels lightweight and creates a natural base.
BRONZE AND CONTOUR
I use the LYS No Limits Cream Bronzer and Contour Stick in the shade Harmony. It blends effortlessly and a little goes a long way. I start with cream products and then layer powder on top. For powder bronzer, I use the Kylie Cosmetics Powder Bronzer in Tequila Tan, though any similar shade works. This product isn’t currently sold anymore, so just find a product that fits best for you to replace it with.
BLUSH
I use both cream and powder blush in my routine. The cream blush I use is the NUDESTIX NUDIES BLOOM All Over Dewy Face Color in the shade Cherry Blossom Babe. For powder blush, I use a drugstore option from CVS that is long-lasting and flattering. Great makeup does not have to be expensive.
SETTING THE BASE
Once I have my base down, I like to set my face using the Huda Beauty Easy Bake Blurring Loose Baking and Setting Powder in the shade Sugar Cookie. I love how it blurs the skin while still keeping my makeup looking natural. I let it sit for about 5-10 minutes; in the meantime, I usually do my eyeliner or eyebrows. Once I feel like it has set for long enough, I then lightly brush off the excess rather than pat it in.
HIGHTLIGHT
Now it is time to highlight! I like to use the Kylie Cosmetics highlighter, which is an ancient artifact that is no longer sold, but a good alternative is the Fenty Beauty Match Stix Shimmer Skinstick highlighter. Keep in mind, a little highlighter goes a long way. I apply a small amount to my nose, the inner corner of my eyes, under my eyebrows and cheekbones to give your face a nice shine and lift.
BROWS
On light makeup days, I use the e.l.f Soap Brow gel to keep my brows in place. For a full face kinda day, I will use the REFY Brow Tint Eyebrow Gel to add more fullness and definition to them.
LIPS
One of the last steps of my makeup routine is the lips, and this step is what I think can really pull your look all together. Although I like to experiment with different lip combos, my go-to is the Charlotte Tilbury Lip Cheat Lip Liner in Pillow Talk paired with the Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm Treatment in Vanilla Beige.
SETTING SPRAY
Finally, to set it all in, I will give my face a good spray with the One/Size by Patrick Starr On ‘Til Dawn Mattifying Waterproof Setting Spray. I love this product so much since it locks your makeup in all day, so you don’t have to worry about any smuding and give a smooth matte finish.
step 4: makeup removal and skin reset
At the end of the day, removing makeup properly is just as important as applying it.
This step is really up to you and what you like, but my favorite makeup removers are:
- Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water All-in-1 Cleanser and Makeup Remover
- Medicube Zero Pore Pads: This is really good to use after you wash your face, it will get rid of all of the remaining makeup residue that you didn’t even know was still there.
- BIODANCE Collagen Gel Toner Pads: This can be used to cleanse the skin and help minimize pores. They can also double as a face mask when placed on dry areas before bed and left on overnight, leaving you with a smooth, glass-skin look in the morning.
To me, makeup will always be more than just a way to feel “prettier” or just products and steps. It’s about self care and love, being creative and a way to practice mindfulness; being in the present moment. Doing your makeup should be exciting and make you feel good about yourself, and not a chore because you feel like you need to wear makeup to go out of the house. I hope I highlighted the importance that makeup should feel fun, empowering and unique while also informing girls on different makeup products. Use what works with you, and skip what doesn’t. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different brands and looks! Whether you are going to class, an important meeting or a night out your makeup look makes you feel like your most confident self.