For me, less is more when it comes to makeup. Although my skin care and moisturizing routine is becoming quite lengthy (post coming soon!), my everyday makeup ritual is far more minimal. I keep it basic—a few quick steps and I’m ready to go. Below are my go-to products, both high-end and drug store versions, that I use regularly.
1. Liquid Eyeliner
Nailing the perfect cat-eye is no small feat and choosing your weapon to ease the application and nail a precise line is of utmost importance. I prefer Stila’s Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner. It’s easy to apply, especially if you want an ultra thin line! It glides on easily and doesn’t smudge throughout the day. It is, by far, the easiest and quickest to apply, my tried-and-true.
Runner-up is Revlon’s ColorStay Liquid Liner. The only reason it’s not first is because it’s a bit harder to put on—the tip on the applicator is shorter, the shape of the tube is a bit awkward, and it takes a few more strokes (and tries!) to get the line you want. That said, it can create a super thin line and the color is rich, intense, and stays put all day without smudging. It’s a very close second!
2. Lash Primer
I’m fortunate to have long eyelashes, but without applying anything to them you can’t tell:-/ Although it may seem like an unnecessary step, I always use a lash primer before applying mascara. It helps mascara go on more smoothly and the end result is fuller, longer, and all around more dramatic lashes. I use Dior’s Diorshow Maximizer 3D Triple Volume Plumping Lash Primer UNDER EVERYTHING.
3. Mascara
As loyal as I am to my lash primer, the opposite is true with mascara. I’m constantly trying new products and am currently loving Lancome’s Monsieur Big Mascara. The color is a rich, intense black and you apply as many layers as you want. In my opinion, the more dramatic the better
For a lower price point, I keep going back to Maybelline mascaras, especially the Great Lash, Washable Lashes in blackest black. It’s volumizing, and the color is rich. You can’t go wrong.
4. Cheek Contour and Blush
I wear the same two products on my cheeks every single day. I start with Hoola Bronzer by Benefit under my cheekbones to create a contour. The straight bristle brush that it comes with is perfect for creating contour lines and can also be used under the jawline, around the hairline, or even down the sides of your nose. I use it to define my cheekbones.
Secondly, I use MAC Cosmetic’s Powder Blush in Harmony. It’s a neutral shade, natural-looking, and goes with everything. Buildable too, so you can go as subtle or dramatic as you want. Tip: a little goes a long way!
5. Eyebrow Pencil
Eyebrows are important—they help accentuate your eyes and frame your face. Since having my eyebrows microbladed (should I do a blog post on this?), I’m able to skip this step for the most part. Honestly though, I still pencil in a little bit but not nearly as much as before. NYX’s Micro Brow Pencil is my favorite product in this category. It comes in eight different shades and has an ultra thin line that blends well when filling in or creating shape. It’s easy to use and has a brush on one end, too.
Thanks for reading! All products linked below.
