Something strange has been happening lately and I must say it feels great! In the past few weeks I have had more people comment on my “nice” complexion. This is NOT normal for me! I have been suffering from rosacea for the past 5 years and I have never been one to think I had a pretty complexion. With my rosacea under control, it has been easier for me to focus on finding the right products for my skin. So I decided to share some of my favorite beauty products. Funny enough some of these products may break the bank – but I promise you they are worth every penny! Just think if you use some of those face masks below, take the extra money you save and reinvest that back into your skin.
# 1 PRIMER
$34.00 - Lasts 4 Months
If I was stranded on a deserted island the one thing I may ask for is a tinted primer. Not only does it even out your skin tone, it does a great job at forming a protective barrier on your skin. Makeup has so many chemicals so it makes sense that you want to protect your face from makeup going directly into your pours. I am an avid user of primer and I use it everyday before I put on my foundation. I would suggest going to a store like Sephora and requesting a consultation because they will help you find a perfect match for your skin needs.
Primers come in many colors and can be made of different bases. I prefer a water based primer over a silicone base because it is more matt looking after application. Since I tend to have a blotchy skin tone, I use a yellow based primer. A yellow toned primer will not only brighten your skin and give it an instant glow, it will even out your skin tone. This will give you the perfect base to start your makeup application. Other perks- you will also use less foundation and at the end of the day your makeup stays looking fresh!
Walgreens- $8-9
#2 MASCARA
After going through about 20 different brands/types of mascara in my life, I finally found one that offers everything I have been looking for & more! Loreal nailed it in their Voluminous Mascara! It provides even coverage on your lashes, adds length, and best of all major volume. During the day I would suggest using one application and throw it in your purse, come nighttime add another coat. Not only will this refreshen your mascara it will give your eyes a more dramatic effect needed for that cocktail hour fast approaching. I highly recommend adding this to your beauty bag and your daily makeup routine.
#3 FOUNDATION
Lasts 4-5 months
I can’t stress enough about what the CORRECT color foundation can do for the overall look of your skin. With that said- ladies please stop buying foundation that matches how tan your legs are! You can always add bronzer to make your face looked sun-kissed but you can’t take back that orange or discolored look that a”too” dark foundation can create. Please Please Please go to the store and get matched, I promise it will make a world of a difference. Makeup consultants will also help you understand how much coverage is good for your skin type. I don’t like anything that is too heavy so I go for a water based foundation that is buildable! When it comes to foundation my rule is always less is more. I use: Makeup For Ever Face & Body
** Tip – This foundation can also be used on the body so don’t be afraid to blend it into your neck!
#4 BLUSH
$28.00 - Lasts 6-7 Months
A pop of color can also brighten up the dullest of skin! Depending on your hair color and skin tone you can get away with many different colors. When I was blonde I always wore faint pinks and dusty roses, but now that I am brunette I like to add quite a pop of color. I focus now staying closer to hot pinks and corals. With being fair skinned and dark hair I know that my skin needs to be brightened up!
There are a lot of choices when it comes to finding the right blush. I have tried creme blushes, gel blushes, but I always come back to powder. There is something about swiping your blush brush on a pretty color and getting those cheek bones to pop, that a creme blush can’t accomplish! My favorite right now you ask? - Benefit Havana
Nicknamed the “good karma” of blushes, this blush is very easy to use and very blendable! Also I love that it comes with a slanted brush, making it very easy to contour your cheekbones! ”This powder combines four shades–Lucky Shell, Divine Peach, Heavenly Rose and Berry Delight–blend together perfectly for an orchid-blossom blush with a soft satin finish. Swirl and sweep it on for a heavenly flush of enlightenment.” – Benefit
$19.50
#5 FACE WASH
The best thing you can do for your skin is give it a good ole’ wash in the morning and night. I must admit I am not always down for washing my face before bed (bad terrible habit). So when I do wash my face, it is important to get everything off and start fresh. The best facewash I have ever found is from Clinique. I mean this stuff gets EVERYTHING off! No need for makeup remover or a lot of scrubbing this creamy face wash makes it so easy to start with a squeaky clean face!
** This can last up to 5 months if you use sparingly.
