Favorite Products

 January Favorites 

   

1. Sephora Instant Radiance Foundation:

This is, without a doubt, my absolute favorite foundation. Works cannot describe how strongly I love this product. It has everything I want in a foundation in one perfect bottle. For starters, the formulation is exquisite. It is very smooth and it blends into the skin very well. Also, it is a very buildable product. When I go to school, I only use a small amount. But when I go out, I tend to put a little more, and it does the job. Though I would say that the coverage is no more than medium. 
     Not only is this product versatile, but it is also very natural. I have tried a lot of foundations in my life, but none have looked so natural on my face before. It almost appears as if you are wearing no makeup. It leaves your face looking flawless and stays that way for most of the day. The only downside would be the packaging. I don't know if I have a defective bottle or if the packaging is poor quality, but mine is practically falling apart. The cap never stays on and the foundation often spills out. But I am willing to deal with the side-effects because of how much I love this product.

How I use it: Before applying the foundation, I apply a moisturizer all over my face. This helps the foundation apply on smoother and it gives it a smooth surface to go on. (moisturizer=CVS illuminating daily moisturizer) 

2. Maybelline Great Lash Clear Mascara:

I recently bought this product at CVS, not knowing what to expect. I was in need for a brow gel, so when I saw Tiffany D rave about it on youtube, I decided to check it out. I was pleasantly surprised by the results. The formulation is thick, but not sticky. It holds your brows in place without making them look like they are waxed in place. Plus, the product is very affordable. It is a great alternative for the Anastasia Brow Gel and many other high-end brow gels that I have tried. It can also be used as a clear mascara. For those of you how want to add more length to your lashes without the drama of mascara, this is the product for you. It is a great multi-purpose product that doesn't break the bank. 

How I use it: I fill in my eyebrows, groom them with a spool, then set them with the gel. I scrape the excess product on the edge of bottle before I apply. 


3. Clinique Even Better Concealer: 

I have been using this concealer for about six months now, and I have grown to love it more by the day. It has a very thick consistency and gives great coverage. It is perfect for under the eyes, but I prefer to use it to cover any imperfections I may have on my face (acne, redness, etc.) It is a little pricey but I think it is well worth it.  I have used it everyday since I got it and I have barely made a dent in it. Clinique is a great makeup brand if you have sensitive skin because it is allergy tested and has no fragrances. This product has never made me break out and it does a great job covering any acne and pimples that I may have on my face. If you are on the hunt for a high-coverage concealer, I would highly recommend you check this product out! 

How I use it: I apply it after I apply foundation on any imperfections on my face that I wish to cover (and sometimes my under eye circles). 



4. MAC powder blush in Lovecloud (Satin) 
I love this blush for so many reasons. For one, it gives my cheeks a very natural glow. It has a smooth, satin texture and doesn't look powdery on my skin. This is a perfect blush for all year because of it basic pink color. Though it is on the pricier side, it is worth the investment. I believe this color has been discontinued, but Tarte Amazonian Clay Blush in Dollface is almost an exact match. The blush is very good quality and has great formulation. The only down side to its good quality is you have to be careful when you apply it. Use a light hand and start in the back of your cheeks. Gently work your way forward to the apples of your cheeks, so that you don't put too much. I would recommend using a tapered blush brush to apply it. Overall, this product is beautiful and unique. Plus, it is perfect for the spring and summer seasons that are approaching.

How I use it: After applying foundation, I apply the blush on my cheeks in circular motion until I get my desired result. 



5. Maybelline Falsies Flared Mascara (Waterproof) 
Sometimes when I am running late for school and I don't have time to do my makeup, I apply some mascara and concealer and head out the door. Lately, I have been loving the Falsies mascara by Maybelline. It does a perfect job of lengthening my lashes and adding volume. The curved brush reaches even my outer most lashes, providing all my lashes with an even coat of mascara. I haven't used a mascara that makes me look like I am wearing false eyelashes, but this one comes the closest. The waterproof formulation is perfect for those of you who need a mascara that lasts all day. I have been using it everyday for school and it has never smudged! It's perfect for long days when you know you won't be able to fix your makeup. Just apply it in the morning, and you won't have to worry about it until you take it off at night. It is a great drugstore product and it consistently beats out any high-end mascara I have tried instead of it. Somehow, I always find myself going back to Maybelline. So if you are in the market for a new mascara, I would highly recommend you check this one out.

How I use it: I apply several coats to my upper lashes, starting from the root and working my way up in a zig-zag motion. Starting from the root of your lashes ensures that the mascara will give them volume and lift.

The Beauty Belle