I’ve been reading a lot lately on simplifying and minimizing, which got me thinking: If I could only have 5 things, what would they be? I decided to start with make-up, and in the coming weeks I’ll post hair, skincare, bath & body and clothing. So, in no particular order, here are the 5 make-up products I swear by:
After seeing this product pretty much break the internet, I knew I had to give it a try. I’ve always been a huge fan of Tarte Cosmetics, and this product did not disappoint! It claims to also be a highlighter, but I’ve only ever used it as a concealer. I have it in shade Fair, and that was a huge mistake. I bought the lightest shade in an attempt to also highlight and brighten my under eye area. To the naked eye, it looked great over foundation, but when pictures were taken, I looked like I had on war paint. It was beyond bad. I’ve since started wearing it under my foundation and it looks much better. When I need to replace it, i’ll definitely let the pro’s match me. All-in-all, this is a great concealer and I’ll will definitely purchase again.
Benefit Hoola Quickie Contour Stick
I purchased this product on a whim. I had been using the Anastasia Contour kit but wanted to try a cream contour. I went to Ulta to purchase the Smashbox Contour Sticks, but they were sold out. I’m the type of person that refuses to leave without what I came for, so I asked the salesperson to give me something similar. Y’all. I love this. I get compliments on my contour every time I wear it. It photographs beautifully and looks fairly natural. It goes on great and is super easy to blend out with a damp beauty blender.
Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara
I’ve been using this mascara for about 3 years now. This is some powerful stuff, y’all. I remember the first time I put it on I was scared to blink. I came out of the bathroom looking like I’d just had a stroke because it went on so thick. I’ve since learned how to use it in a way that works best for me (removing excess and applying 2 coats). It’s so dark and pops so well that I no longer wear eyeliner. Side thought on dupes- There are none. Everyone was raving about L’Oreal’s Lash Paradise being the perfect $10.00 dupe and so I tried it. I mean who doesn’t want to save money? It’s not even close. It dried out super fast and comes out way too clumpy, even if you remove the excess. Spend $13.00 more and get the good stuff.
I bought this bronzer after seeing so many YouTubers using it. I use it to set my contour stick and then blend it out with my beauty blender. It really helps to make my contour “pop”. This is another powerful product, a little bit goes a long way.
I bought this highlighter on the same trip as the bronzer. I don’t feel it’s as heavy of a product as the bronzer, but it gives a beautiful glow. I’d originally bought the Lorac Source Illuminating Highlighter, and while it may work for some, I looked like a clown. The saleslady suggested using it in the corners of my eyes to avoid wasting the product, and it seems to work well for me like that. I use this highlighter above my cheekbones, the bridge of my nose, and the upper center of my forehead. Again, use a damp beauty blender to blend it out.
I hope this helps you if you have been on the fence about any of these products. If you have any questions, feel free to comment below or email me. Do you have any tried and true makeup products?