As a lover of all things beauty related, I could go on for hours showing you the multitude of products that lie in my three makeup bags and large tiered carrying case. (Yes, I know I have a problem.) However, I don’t use all of those products everyday (I would look like a clown, let’s be honest) so today, I’m going to show you my everyday essentials and take you through my makeup routine.
I start with using Clinique’s Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion ($26), and then I use a pea-sized amount of Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer ($36). This smooths out my skin and keeps my makeup on longer for those days when I’m on campus all day. Since I’m in between my summer and winter complexion, I mix Mary-Kay’s Medium Coverage Foundation ($18) in Ivory 202 with Revlon’s ColorStay ($9.99) in 110 Ivory to match my skin tone. I apply it with my fingers because it warms the foundation and makes it easier to blend.
My next items include a powder foundation and kabuki brush, similar to this one ($6) by e.l.f. I use a powder foundation on top of my liquid foundation to provide full coverage and help minimize shine. I usually use Maybelline Fit Me Pressed Powder ($7.99), but since I just ran out I’ve started using Clinique’s Superpowder Double Face Makeup ($23). While I discovered that I like Clinique’s product better, the Fit Me line is a great alternative for a lower price.
To contour I apply Nars Laguna bronzer ($38) using e.l.f.’s powder brush ($3). The flat edge of the brush is great for making a line under my cheek, which I then blend. Using a control powder brush, similar to this angled brush ($3) by e.l.f., I applied a mauve blush from the apples of my cheeks to my temples. The Sephora blush I use isn’t available online anymore, but Maybelline’s Fit Me blush ($5.99) in Deep Mauve is a great dupe.
On my eyes, I usually just wear Maybelline Colossal Volume Mascara ($6.99). However, if I want to look a bit more done up I use eye shadow and eyeliner. I start with Too Faced Shadow Insurance Primer ($20) to intensify my shadow and make it long-lasting. Next, I apply the champagne and brown from Almay’s Intense i-Color Trio for Browns ($5.99) using e.l.f.’s blending eye brush ($1). If I want to define my eyes for a slightly bolder look, I use Urban Decay’s 24/7 Double Ended Eye Pencil ($16) in Black/Brown. The colors in this pencil stay on all day and don’t bleed or run! Additionally, I almost always fill in my brows using Anastasia Brow Powder Duo ($23) and e.l.f.’s small angled brush ($3). Defining your brows, in my opinion, is so important and frames the face.
I usually don’t wear lip products, but if I feel like changing up my lip color I will use either Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick ($4.79) in Pearl (discontinued) or Revlon Lipstain ($6.84) in Just Bitten. Both products are perfect colors for fall and winter.
Lastly, to hold my makeup in place all day and prevent shine, I spray Urban Decay’s De-Slick Oil-Control Makeup Setting Spray ($30) all over my face. This product is fantastic and I highly recommend it, especially for those with oily skin.
Have you used any of these products, collegiettes? What do you think of them?