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Figuring out the perfect makeup routine can be exhausting. With so many brands to choose from, and so many new products being released, at times it feels impossible to keep up with the latest beauty trends.
But, the great thing is once you find products you love, you can easily mould the rest of your routine around them. I’ve tried so many products over the years and stuck with very few.
So, here is my everyday natural makeup routine and the beauty essentials that I just can’t go without.
Primer
For my base layer I use the Smashbox Photo Finish Light Primer. Over the years, I’ve tried so many different primers and this is the only one that I’ve actually stuck with. It blends into the skin so well and offers a really soft, mattifying finish. I would definitely recommend this for anyone who tends to get a bit oily throughout the day, it really makes sure that your makeup stays in place!
Foundation
I’m still in search of the perfect foundation … but the YSL Fusion Ink one comes pretty close. This has the perfect amount of coverage without feeling too thick or cakey. I would say that it’s on the light-medium side. However, it can be built up quite easily.
I slightly prefer the Fusion Ink Cushion Foundation, simply because I feel the finish is better. The liquid version does last a lot longer though.
Concealer
I’ve been using the Collection Lasting Perfection Concealer for years and luckily managed to build up quite a collection before they changed the formula. I use Fair 1 as a spot corrector and Extra Fair 0 for my under eyes, but the new shades unfortunately don’t seem to match as well.
I’m currently looking for a new favourite so if you have any recommendations, let me know in the comments!
Setting Powder
When it comes to setting your makeup, the Rimmel Match Perfection Loose Powder is unbeatable. I have combination skin, which gets especially shiny around the T-zone, so for me a translucent powder is a must.
This one is really light and feels satin smooth on the skin. I also love that it adapts to your skin tone making it way less noticeable over the top of your foundation.
Bronzer
Hoola bronzers deserve all the hype they get. Yes, they’re expensive, but I definitely think it’s worth investing in a staple product like this. I use the Lite version and I can’t sing its praises enough. I love it!
If you have super pale skin like me, you’ll know how tricky it is to find a bronzer that doesn’t leave orange stripes across your face. Hoola Lite works really well as a natural contour shade, and gives your face a subtle but noticeable warmth.
Blush
Another Benefit classic – the GALifornia Golden Pink Powder Blush. If you’re looking for a soft, peachy glow, this is the perfect product. The colour payoff is amazing and the little flecks of gold enhance its (already) radiant finish.
I found that it’s best to use a light hand with this blush as it is quite bright. A little goes a veeeery long way, so sweeping it gently over your cheeks transfers just the right amount of colour.
Highlighter
Since I use a shimmery blush already, I like to keep my highlighter very minimal. I use the Dior Backstage Glow Face Palette in 01 Universal to add a little glow to my cupid’s bow and the top of my cheekbones. Nothing crazy!
What’s great is that these powders aren’t too pigmented or intense, so they look very natural on the skin. And, the shades I don’t use, I repurpose as eyeshadow which means that nothing goes to waste.
Brows
For a light, natural look I don’t use powder or pomade to fill in my eyebrows. If I want to define them, I’ll simply use a damp spoolie brush and The Body Shop Pink Grapefruit Soap.
At first I thought ‘soap brows’ were just an Internet fad, but it actually works! In fact, I would argue that bar soap works better than most gels I’ve tried!
It’s really easy and your brows stay in place all day. Definitely give this a go!
Eye Shadow
The Revolution Iconic 3.0 Palette is my go-to if I want a light, shimmery everyday look. The pink/nude tones are ideal for adding just a hint of colour to the eyelid. And, for the price, the shadows are pretty decent.
If you’re into bold, pigmented palettes, then this might not be for you. But, for beginners or light-makeup wearers, this would be great!
On lazy days I’ll just use a bit of the Urban Decay Primer Potion in Sin to brighten up my eyes. It takes about 5 seconds to apply it, so it’s amazing if you’re in a rush.
Mascara
After applying my eye shadow, and curling my lashes, it’s time for mascara. I use Benefit’s Roller Lash Curling Mascara which I honestly can’t go without. I love this product as it’s lengthening, but not at all thick or clumpy.
The brush also does an amazing job of fanning out your lashes which creates volume that lasts all day.
Lip Products
I usually rotate my lip products to match the kind of look I’m going for that day. For a bit of shine I tend to reach for the Clinique Superbalm Moisturizing Gloss. It’s a little pricey but looks so nice on! It’s also really hydrating and stays on the lips for ages. Love it!
If I want something less sticky, I’ll opt for a lip oil instead. The Clarins ones are my fave – the colour payoff is great and you only need to use a little bit to get the full moisturising effect.
Setting Spray
There’s a reason why the Urban Decay All Nighter Setting Spray is everyone’s favourite. It’s lightweight and not at all sticky. Plus, the mist is super fine so it doesn’t feel like you’re drenching your face.
Even for those who don’t necessarily need help fixing their makeup in place, this is great for giving your skin a final ‘freshen up’.
What does your natural makeup routine consist of? Which products do you use?
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