My entire life, I have been deemed a “girly girl,” and, even as a certified #BoyMom of a superhero-and-sport-loving toddler boy now, that is still absolutely true. My makeup time sometimes is the only “me” time I get in a day, so I really try to take that time to get myself ready and feel good about myself.
In one of my summer blog posts, a post about yogurt parfaits, I got a little real about my struggle with an eating disorder and body image issues. I have to be really careful and intentional when it comes to body positivity and self-care. One of the ways I do that is by challenging myself to wear make up that enhances my existing features, rather than wearing too much makeup to alter how I look.
A few summers ago, I joined Avon as a representative. This was right after I had my son, and my budget changed completely when I had to make the decision to switch from breastfeeding to formula feeding, and I was beginning to run out of diapers provided from the baby shower. So my “extra” expenses, like personal care and makeup, were becoming difficult to justify. Avon had a low-cost sign up to become a representative and I knew that if nothing else, I could make enough to help cover the cost of my own cosmetics.
This isn’t an Avon call to join post, so I’m not going to spend a ton of time on the whole “join me” thing – instead, if you have questions, reach out to me anytime. This post actually features some other beauty vendors and companies, too, so I’ll be sure to share those as we go.
Let’s get into the makeup with me situation! I have found that taking the time to put on my cosmetics and spending some energy to make my makeup affordable has paid off in a big way for me. It makes me feel good to look good, but by making sure that I use products that compliment my natural looks also keeps me from spiraling back into an existing internal issue with body image.
I want to share the products and process I use to put on my makeup.
As a note, I always buy ELF makeup brushes. I usually pick mine up at Target or Walmart, but you can also find really cute sets on the ELF Cosmetic website.
I always start with a clean face. And while I promote healthy skincare, I also know that it’s unrealistic to think that all mommas or working ladies always take the time to wash and moisturize before bed. There are definitely mornings that I am waking up with yesterday’s makeup still on. I don’t have a picture of it, but I use and recommend Equate Beauty Night-Time Soothing Makeup Remover Wipes from Walmart. They’re affordable and the are fairly soothing to the skin. I try to use mine at night, but, like I admitted, I sometimes have to use them in the morning.
After I’m sure my face is fresh and clean, I’m going to start with primer and liquid foundation. I use Ink Lasting Primer, and I spread a small amount over my face. Then, I use Ink Lasting Foundation; the shade I use is C10 0 “neutral ivory.” I use a blender sponge first and then use a foundation brush to fill in places like under-eye circles.
After my foundation is set, I use a foundation powder. This one, Avon True Color Flawless Mattifying Pressed Powder, is actually no longer made, so I’m going to have to try another line soon – and you can tell I’m almost out. Then I use the Blushed in Love blush & highlighter palette, adding the blush to the apples of my cheeks and the highlighter to the top of my cheek bones right beneath my eyes, to the top of my forehead, and to the bridge of my nose to give some highlighted definition to my face structure.
Next is my eyes!
Y’all will find this shocking if you are knowledgeable about direct sales, but I actually use a Mary Kay Eyelash Curler. I bought it from my boyfriend’s sister when I didn’t have one available in my own brand, and I really love it.
After using this, I pull out my Mono Pop Eyeshadow Palette. I use one flatter-tipped eye shadow brush to brush on the darker shade I want to use. Then I use a larger eyeshadow blending blush to add in a lighter color – you can see the shade I use up most here.
After my eyeshadow is applied, I use ELF Cosmetic’s liquid eyeliner. I use more on my top lid, using just a little on the bottom lid to connect the outside corner of each eye and give a really small “wing” effect. I think big eyeliner wings can really work and look great, but I personally reserve them for bigger or more special occasions when I might really want to look “dolled up.” After eyeliner, I apply my favorite ever mascara, Love at 1st Lash. I apply 2-3 coats on the top lashes and a quick coat on the bottom lashes.
Then it’s on to the lips! I use Nivea’s Milk & Honey lip balm. It’s my favorite because it’s really soothing to my lips but doesn’t have a super sugary or concentrated flavor to it. I don’t know about y’all, but the allergens I experience in East Tennessee coupled with wearing a mask every day has my lips dried out for real – and I find myself using this a few times a day to keep them moisturized and soothed.
I also use lipstick on top of my lip balm. I like the color it brings, but lipstick can crack, so the foundation of balm helps. I use this shade of Sparkling Rose.
If you don’t use a setting spray, I highly recommend that you find one you like. Mine is True Color Setting Spray, but I know that companies like ELF make them too. These make a difference in the day-long lasting effect your makeup can have. I won’t say it WON’T rub off or wear off, but I do find that I get an extra couple hours’ wear out of my makeup when I spray it.
After that, I’m all done, and I just have to do my hair and get dressed!
What does your makeup routine look like? Do you have products you simply can’t do without? Comment below – I’d love to hear from you!
Kate with a Twang 