I get that most people probably have a make-up routine down, but if you are anything like me, then you like to give new products a try. And if you are anything like me, then you want some reviews to go with those products.
The only thing that I truly cannot stand is when a blogger gets on here to promote the newest product and that product is ridiculously expensive. But even more than that, when a blogger pushes the expensive product and they were given that product for free. Gah! I get that MAC products are awesome, but some of us just really do not feel like spending a small fortune on make-up.
That being said... these are my tried and true products that are still pretty awesome, but definitely more budget friendly.
After moving to Cheyenne, my skin got really dry and sort of ashen looking. I went to the dermatologist and she told me to use a very gentle cleanser and moisturizer. The Oil of Olay moisturizer is super gentle and packs on a ton of moisture. Perfect for the ridiculously dry Wyoming weather.
Truly, I had never used primer before. I read about Revlon's Photo Ready Primer on Allure's website. I will occasionally head over there and check out what they consider "the best of the best". I really like how this primer helps to even out my skin before I apply any base. I also think it helps lighten up my complexion. The bottles runs about $12 and I use I squirt every morning.
I have been using Clinique for a long time. It is definitely pricier than anything you can find at the drugstore, but if you only buy a few essential products, it isn't too bad. I truly love their Acne Solution Concealer. I like that it covers my imperfections, but without making me feel like it is caked on or that it is going to clog my skin anymore. The tube is on the tiny side, but seriously lasts FOREVER!
By far, the most expensive product in my arsenal. I started using Bare Minerals a few years ago. I didn't feel like covering my entire face with foundation was doing anything for my skin, so I decided to switch things up. I bought the starter kit and then my foundation. Because I don't live anywhere near a store that sells the stuff, I buy it online at Nordstroms because of the free shipping.
This is my newest purchase. I had been using the same Clinique blush for a while and wasn't loving it anymore. I needed something that wasn't so dirty looking. Something that would brighten up my face and look fresh. This was another one that I found on Allure. The color they recommended was Fresh Pink. They promised that it looks good on everyone. I think I agree.
My sister-in-law got me started on ELF make-up. You can find it at Target, but my local Target doesn't carry it yet. I bought the eye brow kit for a few bucks and love it. My eyebrows are awful. Like, the most hated part of my body. This great little set has a cream and a lighter powder, as well as a brush to apply it. It is amazing!
Another awesome ELF find. These little tubes on eye liner cream are great. I have both brown and black. They run about $3 a piece and come with a little brush as well. I opted to buy an angle brush to make applying it easier. The liner is super creamy and goes on like a dream. And for $3 a bottle, you could realistically buy them all.
I have tried a TON of mascaras. For a while I could only use a Clinique one because my eyelashes were starting to fall out and it was awful. It seemed like I was allergic to most everything else. Slowly I started using normal mascara again. I used the Maybelline pink and green mascara for a while, but wanted something more. I read about this mascara on The Simple Things blog. While I like this mascara, I might try the Million Dollar Lashes next time. Same brand, same basic concept.
So there you go. Basic and not too expensive products that I love and would totally recommend. And, if you end up hating them, you didn't spend a car payment on them!
