I never thought I’d utter the following words, but… I’m no longer a bareMinerals gal. I know ladies, I know…
THE BREAKUP
It’s been a long time coming. It started years ago when my dermatologist kindly suggested that my bareMinerals could be the root cause of my constant and relentless breakouts. I didn’t want to hear it. But after changing up literally everything but the makeup with no results, I figured it was time. Skin changes, and sometimes, brands that used to be godsends can become the problem.
I don’t know what came over me one morning, but I dumped everything bareMinerals in the trash, and headed straight to the Clinique counter at Nordstrom. This was about six months ago, and it’s been one of the best decisions I’ve made in a long time. I honestly don’t know what kind of magic is in Clinique products, but it’s fixed up so many of my skin issues. Most importantly, I stopped breaking out.
The New & Improved Simple Everyday Makeup Routine
FACE | THE BASE
Smashbox Photo Finish | Beyond Perfecting™ Foundation + Concealer | Silicone Makeup Blender | Uplighting Illuminating Powder | Blended Face Powder
I start with a pea sized amount of Smashbox Photo Finish, applying all over my face. Then I use Beyond Perfecting (which is honestly the best foundation and concealer combo I’ve ever used) on my ‘problem’ areas. Red spots, under the eyes, uneven skin, etc. blending it in with a silicone blender. I use a small amount of illuminating powder to seal it in, and then top that off with pressed powder to even out the base before moving on to color.
FACE | THE COLOR
True Bronze™ Pressed Powder Bronzer | Blushing Blush™ Powder Blush | Uplighting Illuminating Powder
A tiny amount of bronzer always goes a long way. I apply this all over before moving onto blush. Blush on the cheekbones, a bit on the nose, chin, and forehead. Lock it all in with another thin layer of illuminating powder.
EYES + LIPS
Billion Dollar Brows Powder | Maybelline Eye Studio Master Precise Liquid Eyeliner | Maybelline Volum’ Express The Falsies Mascara | Chubby Stick Intense™ Moisturizing Lip Colour Balm
bdb is the best and easiest brow filler I’ve ever used (read more here). I’ve also been a huge advocate for Maybelline eye products for-freaking-ever (read more here). And to finish up, a super light layer of tinted lip balm — I’m a slave to their Pudgy Peony color.
BEFORE + AFTER SHOT
It’s a pretty quick and painless routine. I’m able to get in and out from primer to lips in under 10 minutes. I also know that Clinique doesn’t have a ‘cool brand’ reputation, but trust me when I say it’s terribly underrated.
PS. this post is in no way sponsored by Clinique (I wish!), but there are affiliate links in this post. Meaning, I receive a (very, very) small commission on any clicks / purchases but I’m not paid to recommend any particular item.