At the beginning of the Summer, coincidentally most of my makeup ran out. No longer in love with the products I was using, I set out on a mission to find new favourites in all categories: foundation, concealer, mascara, blush, highlighter, bronzer etc. Two 3-hour Sephora visits and countless hours watching YouTube videos later, I’ve found several new products (and brands) that I’m enjoying and thought I would share. While I try to use as much “clean” makeup as possible, I was willing to step outside a bit to try a couple highly recommended products. Honestly though, I’m finding clean products are just as good these days as regular products, and I’m going to continue seeking out clean as much as possible. I’ve only made a small dent in the long list of products I want to try, and so I will keep updating here as I go.
Face
Note: I have “normal” skin – not oily and not dry
Nars Light Reflecting Advanced Skincare Foundation 4/5 – This is a heavier foundation than I am used to but the coverage is great when needed and the colour matches my skin well when it has a slight tan (aka when I use Salty Face). Shows a little more skin texture than I’d like.
Kosas Revealer Skin-Improving Foundation 4/5 – I wanted a lighter-weight and “clean” foundation option and this one matches my skin well when I’m not as tanned. Still shows a little bit of skin texture.
Kosas Cloud Set Powder 4/5 – Heard rave reviews of this product and wanted something lightweight and doesn’t dull glow. Check and check.
Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer 4/5 – Covers up my dark circles and blemishes well. Settles into my lines a little more than I’d like.
To try:
Kosas Super Creamy + Brightening Concealer
Cheeks
Ilia Multi-Stick Cream Blush 3.5/5 – love how easy this is to put on since it’s more sheer than other cream blushes, but it really doesn’t last long.
Merit Day Glow Dewy Highlighting Balm 4.5/5 – also love how easy this is to put on and it has good staying power. It’s perfect for every day.
To try
Tower 28 Lip + Cheek Cream Blush
Tower 28 Sculptino
Tower 28 Bronzino
Makeup by Mario SoftSculpt Bronzer
Makeup by Mario Soft Pop Powder Blush
Rare Beauty Liquid Blush
Patrick Ta Crème and Powder Blush
Lawless Powder Blush
Eyes
Ilia Limitless Lash Lengthening Mascara 5/5 – I did not used to be a fan of Ilia mascara (would always flake) but I tried a sample recently and it’s no longer flaking and I love it for everyday (not much volume but great length)
Tower 28 Make Waves Mascara 5/5 – I love the wand on this, gives great volume and length. And no flaking!
Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner 4/5 – I really struggle with eyelid products. While I don’t have oily lids, my right eye folds up and no product will stay in place. In fact, I always have to use this product. I like this gel eyeliner however since it’s really easy to use. I much prefer gel over liquid liners. More fool-proof!
To try:
Kosas Air Brow Gel
Bobbi Brown Cream Eyeshadow Stick
Laura Mercier Caviar Stick Eye Shadow
Lips
Rare Beauty Kind Words Lip Liner 4/5 – As someone who wishes for fuller lips but isn’t up for injectables, I’ve got on board with the overlining trend and this colour is basically my lip colour but better. It actually make a huge difference! I’m going to buy the matching lipstick this week to complete the look.
To try:
Tower 28 ShineOn Lip Jelly
Glow Plum Plump Lip Gloss Balm
Ilia Lip Wrap
