Navigating the vast world of makeup products can indeed feel overwhelming, especially with the multitude of options available. With so many brands and types of products on the market, it can be challenging to determine which items are worth your investment and which ones you might be able to find more affordable alternatives for. Understanding the differences and what will work best for your skin type is crucial in making informed choices that enhance your beauty routine effectively.
Recently, one of our wonderful babysitters reached out for guidance on her makeup shopping journey. She shared that she has sensitive skin and was particularly interested in foundational products such as foundation, blush, and concealer. True to my nature, I got a bit carried away with my suggestions and ended up sending her an extensive list of products that I absolutely adore and believe she would benefit from exploring!
This is the list I shared with her:
To begin, I highly recommend investing in a quality concealer, a radiant product to mix into your moisturizer or wear alone for a luminous base, and a blush shade that resonates with your personal style.
My top pick for concealer is the Nars Creamy Concealer. It’s a 10 out of 10 in my book—no notes needed! This concealer effectively covers blemishes and dark circles under the eyes, making it a versatile must-have. I encourage you to visit Sephora and swatch various shades to find your perfect match, as they offer an extensive range of colors to choose from.
Another favorite of mine is the ELF Halo Glow Setting Powder. This product is relatively new and can be found at ELF’s online store, as well as at Ulta and Target. It provides a natural, glowy finish that enhances your complexion beautifully. I truly can’t get enough of this product!
If you’re looking to incorporate a liquid glowy product, I highly recommend the ELF Halo Glow. It can be used either on its own or mixed with foundation for a stunning result. I advise against purchasing the pricey Charlotte Tilbury Flawless Filter, as the ELF version is equally effective and much more affordable, ensuring you get the best value for your money.
For brows, the NYX eyebrow pencil delivers the same results as the Anastasia Brow Wiz—trust me, you won’t be able to tell them apart in a blind test. Both products are fantastic, but NYX offers a more budget-friendly option without compromising quality.
If you’re in the market for a bronzer, I recommend trying the Kosas bronzer. I love the shade “Waves” for a sun-kissed glow, but be sure to swatch in-store to find the shade that complements your skin tone best. The lightest shade, Waves, is very subtle, so you can build up the color as desired.
When it comes to mascara, my all-time favorite is the Lancome Lash Idole. This product truly elevates lash volume and length for a dramatic yet natural look that lasts all day.
Blush is one of my favorite categories, and I highly recommend the Saie blush for its beautiful colors and user-friendly application. It’s priced reasonably and blends seamlessly into the cheeks, especially when applied with an angled blush brush for an effortless finish.
For lips, tinted glosses are currently trending, and you can choose based on your preferred application method—either a wand or a tube. If you’re looking for an easy-to-wear wash of color, I particularly love the options available from Bobbi Brown.
I also reminded her that it’s perfectly acceptable to return makeup products, even after trying them. Considering that some of these recommendations can be on the pricier side, I wouldn’t want her—or anyone else—to feel pressured to keep a product that doesn’t suit their needs or color preferences.
If you’re seeking to refresh your makeup routine or if you have a teen just starting their beauty journey, these recommendations are a fantastic place to begin! They cover the essentials and will help build a solid foundation for an exciting makeup experience.