When the global pandemic hit and we all got stuck indoors, my long makeup routine went out the window. I just couldn’t be bothered with makeup at home anymore unless I was trying new products or experimenting with some looks to keep myself entertained. Most of the time I was bare-faced. However, after so many months indoors, even though my makeup choices have changed I still can’t step out without wearing something on my face even if it’s just to go the grocery store.
My whole makeup routine has evolved from then, especially since masks are the new normal. I initially was excited to step out of the house and went gung-ho with my makeup and instantly regretted it—my skin was not happy. So I try and stick to a simple and natural look with minimal products. Something to pick me up on the daily and few add ons to make me feel confident and self-assured when I’m out and about running errands and such. Below I’ve listed the seven makeup products I have been reaching for the most when applying my makeup. I might veer off and change things up like an eyeshadow if I’m feeling bolder or craving colour but for now these are my trusty favourites and go-to’s that have never steered me wrong.
Keep reading below to check out the only makeup I’ve used when stepping out since the lockdown:
1. Boujoirs Radiance Reveal Concealer
Having a good under eye concealer is a must for me at this time. In this case, I’ve recently been grabbing the Boujoirs radiance reveal concealer more often than not. My under eyes have been looking drier than usual lately and this concealer gives me just the right amount of coverage while keeping the delicate skin hydrated with hyaluronic acid. I enjoy its light-weight formula that doesn’t feel heavy throughout the day and helps reduce any puffiness. It blends into the skin like a dream giving a very natural look, however, I like to use a small eyeshadow crease brush to blend it out and retain as much coverage as possible.
2. Nudestix Nudies Glow Illumi-naughty
With my dry skin, I literally can’t step out of the house without a little bit of a glow. I love this multi-use face stick from Nudestix that, has more of a clear transparent base with a touch of pink resulting in very subtle light from within the glowy makeup look. I just swipe it on my cheekbones and high points and blend it in with my fingers. Low maintenance and easy to use I sometimes even swipe it over my eyes to give a glossy finish.
3. Maybelline Brow Drama Sculpting Eyebrow Mascara
My eyebrow routine hasn’t changed much since quarantine. Less is more for me in this case. I usually just brush out my brows with a spoolie and then go over them with the Maybelline brow mascara in deep brown. It does double duty to fill in my brows plus sculpting and setting them at the same time. This keeps my unruly brows tamed throughout the day.
4. MAC Studio Fix Powder Foundation
This MAC foundation is an old love of mine that I come back to time and time again especially on quick, minimal makeup days. With masks being the new normal, I don’t want to wear a heavy foundation or even bb cream underneath. Used with a light hand and a brush to apply, the powder foundation gives me decent coverage without looking or feeling cakey. I even use it to set my concealer at the same time plus it’s an easy compact that fits into my bag so I can touch up on-the-go if need be.
5. Max Factor Creme Puff Powder Blush
This is something I use when I’m stepping out for something special. I use the shade seductively pink in this baked formula that gives a natural-looking rosy glow and blends seamlessly into my skin. I even take a brush and sweep this across my eyelids doubling it up as an eyeshadow. Again, a super-light formula that helps me complete my look by bringing some colour back into my face.
6. Essence Volume Stylist 18hr Lash Extension Mascara
How can one even step outside the house without mascara? I usually don’t keep my makeup on for too long but it just isn’t complete without it. Since quarantine, this has been my go-to mascara. It’s not too extreme but gives me just the right amount of volume and length with its fibres. It’s a fantastic formula that can be easily built up and super easy to apply. It lasts all day without smudging or flaking but it’s really easy to remove at the end of the day. Also a special mention to my trusty lash curler of which without most of my mascaras are useless.
7. Clinique Chubby Stick™ Moisturizing Lip Colour Balm
Last but not least on my list is my trusted natural lip balm from Clinique. This chubby stick has been the silent hero and always in my purse wherever I go. I first fell in love with it when I watched makeup artist Lisa Eldridge use it in one of her makeup tutorials years ago. From then I gave it a shot and was hooked, and I have repurchased this many a time. Mainly because my mother constantly keeps borrowing this from me. The specific shade that sold me is Mighty Mimosa. It might look intensely pink but it’s the perfect subtle natural pink sheen to my lips. It hydrates them keeping them smooth throughout the day and where I don’t even need to use a mirror to apply.
What’s your makeup routine been like post quarantine? Let me know in the comments below.
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