Makeup Over 40:

The past couple of years have left me with changes in my skin, hair, weight and more. While this conversation may feel shallow or tone deaf amid issues more important than my sudden lack of hotness I was not ready for these changes. I certainly never anticipated such noticeable negative changes appearing suddenly and in an advanced enough state that I barely recognize myself.

As much as I want to curl up in a ball and cry over the death of my youth, I am an action oriented person. After taking stock of my skincare and makeup routine I evaluated what products were still working for me and which should be replaced to better meet the needs of current me (not the younger version of me). 

#1 Skincare Solutions

Any skin issues should be discusses with your dermatologist.  I am simply sharing what I have changed in my personal routine.  While I have tested a number of skin creams and potions both OTC and prescription the three that made it include Thayers Facial Toner.  I apply this toner to a cotton round and swipe it onto my face each morning after cleansing to lock in all-day hydration.  My skin has always been sensitive, but lately has gone from dry to dehydrated.  I do live in a desert climate, but my skin needs all of the hydration I can provide it. This toner is alcohol free and very gentle on the face. As we age our lips may also start to lose volume.

 I cannot bring myself to get lip injections. I hear they are very painful.  My favorite OTC topical BeautyBio The Pout Volumizing Lip Serum in Sparkling Rose.  I know many Makeup Artists who use this because your lips appear instantly larger.  The results are only temporary, but a small amount yields impressive results.  This can be worn alone, or I usually add it as a base coat under my lipstick. 

My hair is also think and the problem seems to be getting worse.  I have had good luck with Vegamour GRO Hair Serum and their heart shaped Biotin Gummies. 

The most important skincare item you should wear is SPF.  I have always been diligent about wearing sunscreen so nothing changed for me on that front. 

#2 Color Correction, Base and Concealer

Start with a primer that is best suited for your skin type. I started using Stila One Step Correct Kitten Skin Tone Correcting & Brightening Primer because one of the issues I have been facing is discoloration and melasma.  This is my first step in color correction and priming my skin for my base.  There are a number of hydrating, glowy or matte primers.  Pick one depending on your personal need. 

My melasma is too prominent for just concealer.  After applying primer to my entire face with my fingertips, I use a peach and green color corrector.  I use the peach one dotted over any melasma spots and gently blend the edges.  I also use the peach tone to correct my under eye circles.  The green, I use sparingly to cover any redness around my nose, or the corner of my eyes.  Jeffree Star Cosmetics Magic Star Concealer in Peach and Green are the products I use, but there are a number of color correctors from the brand available at Beautylish. For melasma, the corrector should be dark enough to cover the dark spot.  

Next is foundation.  There are a couple of options that I like.  If I want something lighter I will pop on Bioderma Sensibio AR CC cream visible redness reducer skin-perfecting care for sensitive skin.  This can be worn as a primer instead of the Stila one and works well under makeup or as your base over the color corrector. 

Most days my melasma needs more coverage.  I used to use liquid foundation, but switching to cream foundation has been a game changer for me. Brands I recommend are Monika Blunder Beauty, Wayne Goss and Honest Beauty.  Monika Blunder's Blunder Cover is an all-in-one foundation and concealer.  You can sheer it out for a natural looking base, or I tend to use a smaller brush and stipple it over the areas where I applied the color correction and buffing into the skin. 

Wayne Goss The Luxury Cream Foundation is a nice option as well because the coverage is also buildable.  If you like loose powder the Luxury Complexion Set, available at Beautylish, includes a Luxury Cream Foundation, The Weightless Powder and a Poreless Beauty Puff which can be used to apply the foundation and powder. 

If you like pressed powders, I enjoy Koh Gen Do Brightening Moisture Powder which comes in Brightening Pink (brightens and revitalizes dull skin) and Warm Beige (blurs the look of pores and lines).  The powder in this compact is delicate, so be cautious when packing it in your bag for touch-ups.

For concealer, I use It Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye applied with a concealer brush over the corrector. Due to my dehydrated skin, I have found cream products are work best for me these days.  This concealer does require a minimal amount of powder to set it. I recommend setting with a small eye brush or puff once your concealer is applied

#3 Color Cosmetics

Beauty brands finally started listening and there are a good number of quality cream bronzers, blush, and multi-sticks to choose from. Pictured below are blush options from Milani, Ilia and Honest Beauty.  The cream bronzer is from Pacifica Beauty.  It is the Sun Dreams Matte Cream Bronzer + Contour.  If you use cream or powder I do recommend looking for formulas with a matte finish as they are more forgiving and won't emphasize texture. 

#4 Brows

As we age our brows tend to get more sparse. I personally like using a brow pencil to fill in spots that need it and then set with a clear gel.  There are many good products to choose from here also so you don't have to break the bank.  Lately I have been usi
ng e.l.f. Instant Lift Brow Pencil in Neutral Brown along with NYX Control Freak Eyebrow Gel.  Select a smudge-resistant formula with a fine tip for better accuracy. 

#5 The Eyes Have It

Wear what makes you happy.  If you are 90 years old and love glitter - go for it.  I have found matte shadows are more flattering in brown, peach and coral tones based on my coloring.  The matte texture looks more natural and doesn't add emphasis the way shimmery shadows can. 

I do recommend that you take the time to curl your lashes.  This should always be done prior to applying mascara unless you are using a heated eyelash curler which is intended for use with mascara.  Using an eyelash curler opens up the eyes and you will notice a difference even before you apply mascara!

If you are going to upgrade your makeup, I highly suggest looking into upgrading your tools if needed.  High quality brushes will make a significant difference and now more than ever using soft bristles around the delicate eye area is a must. 

For eyeliner, I still love Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-on Eye Pencil in Whiskey. If you don't typically use eye liner, try using it to tightline your upper lash line as it will create the look of fuller lashes. Wiggle the liner in between your lashes and smudge with a cotton swab for beautifully defined eyes. 

Mascara is not new either, but instead of looking for lengthening formulas, opt for volumizing formulas and apply only to the top lashes.  Lately I have been enjoying Pillow Talk Push Up Lashes! from Charlotte Tilbury in the color Dream Pop.  The volume and lifting effect lasts all day and the slim brush head makes it easy to get very close to the roots of the lashes.  The formula is also smudge and humidity-proof. 

#6 Lip Service

For lips I want a nice neutral color that isn't too far off from my natural lip color.  I start with a neutral liner to prevent bleeding and keep everything in place.  Most days I only apply a lip gloss. I prefer something hydrating and nothing too dramatic such as Koh Gen Do Maifanshi Lip Gloss which is a lip treatment based Lip Gloss that provides a plump and healthy looking pout. 

#7 Lock It In

Finally I use Jeffree Star Cosmetics Wedding Proof Makeup Setting Spray which is available for $26 from Beautylish. The reason I like this one is that it is waterproof and truly sets my makeup so that it lasts all day long.  I just close my eyes and mist it over my face once I am done with my makeup.  I have noticed such a difference when using this setting spray and I can't imagine not having it in my toolkit. 

That's all for now! I hope you found this post helpful.  The changes that I have started to see in my skin and hair honestly caught me by surprise.  When I talk to my female friends it sounds like I am not alone. This is just what works for me.  Please share your tips and questions below!

Here is the completed look using the tips above:

New Lipsticks

A look at my new peachy lipsticks...

I have recently been in a peachy lipstick phase. To begin my search for the perfect apricot-nude hue, I went to my favorite makeup shopping site beautylish.com. ABH Cosmetics has a highly rated matte formula and a variety of colors to choose from. At $18 each, I added two matte shades to my cart including Peachy and Hollywood.  Peachy is a nude-peach matte formula that glides on the lips with full pigmentation.  Hollywood, though somewhat similar applies as more of a light peach when compared to Peachy.  On the more luxurious side, I opted for Wayne Goss Lipstick in Camellia which is a sheer cream formula.  The color is a light peachy-nude that has a lovely sheen to it while still allowing a hint of my natural lip color to come through.  The sleek black packaging looks expensive and costs quite a bit more than your average lipstick coming in at $28 each.  However, if you suffer from dry lips or matte formulas simply don't work for you I highly recommend this creamy goodness in a tube from Wayne Goss. 

While I do prefer a glossy lip these days, I still love a matte lipstick.  On days where I want added shine, I simply top my matte lipstick of choice with a matching gloss.  In the photo above, I am wearing ABH Cosmetics Matt Lipstick in Peachy topped with Sunny Day Lip Gloss from Burt's Bees (sheer shimmering peach). This combo definitely gave me that peachy vibe I was looking for!

In the above photo I am wearing ABH Lipstick in Hollywood, topped with Buxom gloss in Emily (light peachy nude plumping formula).  While the lip looks in both photos look quite similar, Hollywood is in fact a touch lighter in person and leans a bit more nude. 

I don't know what it is about summer, but I tend to lean toward nude, peach and lighter colored lip shades this time of year.  Perhaps it is because the eye looks I tend to wear this time of year pair well with a more subtle lip, or maybe it is to compliment the blue in my eyes. Regardless of the reason, I am quite happy I added these three lipsticks to my collection and have no doubt that I will continue to get a lot of wear out of all three tubes.

What is your favorite peach colored lipstick?  Please share in the comments below!

* This post is not sponsored.  All of the products in this post were purchased by me. 

Tips for Keeping Your Makeup Brushes Clean

Tips for Keeping Your Makeup Brushes Clean!

It has certainly been a while since I have written a blog post. Like many of you, I am stuck at home and feeling overwhelmed by everything going on in the world.  I don't know why, but one of the few things that I find relaxing is cleaning my makeup brushes.  Over the years I have tried a number of cleaning solutions, methods and storage options for keeping my makeup brushes in pristine condition. 

Here are a few tips that work well for me and help me find a moment of peace in an otherwise insane world.

*All of the items in this post were purchased by me.

On to the tips.....

• Tip #1: Separate dirty brushes. I always keep an empty cup on the side of my makeup table.  After I am done applying makeup, dirty brushes go in that cup away from my clean brushes.  I never contaminate my fresh brushes by mixing them in with dirty ones filled with product.
• Tip #2: Different brushes may need different cleaning methods.  In general I try to follow the recommendation of the brush manufacturer for keeping my brushes clean.  For example, I have some more expensive, delicate brushes that are hand made.  With these types of brushes, I am more gentile with how I clean them.  I will often use a soft microfiber cloth and wipe in the direction of the bristles.  In general the way you use a brush on your face is the same motion you can use to clean it.
• Tip #3: Sanitize with 70% alcohol.  I read so many articles telling people to use 99% alcohol to clean brushes, and this is just plain wrong.  If you use something stronger than 70% alcohol, it will evaporate before actually sanitizing anything.  If you use something less than 70%, you are likely not killing the bacteria and germs as intended.

• Tip #4: Be mindful of the professional brush cleansers your choose.  As far as professional brush cleaners go, there are a number of wonderful options on the market.  However, I personally prefer to use clear brush cleaner because I have found certain colored solutions can leave an unusual blue cast on white bristled brushes.  When I look at some of my more special brushes from Rae Morris or Westman Atelier the thought of their snow white bristles staining with blue antiseptic does not make me happy. That being said, I have used something like Cinema Secrets (a blue colored solution) to clean my darker bristled brushes.  Cinema Secrets does a thorough job and dries very quickly which is why it is an industry favorite.  There are a number of similar products on the market that are completely clear in color as well. 

• Tip #5: Dry brushes upside down or on a flat surface. It doesn't matter if you use a shampoo, professional grade cleaner, and/or alcohol to clean your brushes if you don't dry them properly.  If you place a brush handle side down right back into a brush cup after cleaning, some of the moisture may seep down into the ferrule loosening the glue that holds the bristles together. There are a number of options for brush drying on the market including brush trees (such as my old favorite Benjabelle), the Sigma Dry 'n Shape, and even newer styles that clip to the side of a counter or look like a file bin you might find in the office. You don't really need any of these items.  Simply lay your freshly cleaned brushes flat on a towel until they are completely dry.  I recently purchased the Sigma Dry 'n Shape because I often clean a large number of brushes at once.  I find this tower is a practical way to dry a large number of face and eye brushes at once time without taking up much counter space.  Plus once brushes are dry, it doubles as a cute desktop storage display. I still own the original version of this product and this new version is quite an improvement! 

The above photo is only one half of my complete Sigma Dry 'n Shape Tower.  The full tower holds over 90 brushes!  Plus, as the name suggests, has bands that help to shape the brush heads as they dry.

• Tip #6: Proper storage will keep your brushes free from dust.  I know a lot of people like to store brushes in a cup.  This is fine if you want to keep  a few of your daily brushes handy.  When you have a large number of brushes, it is best to store them in a way that will protect them from dust.  There are many custom acrylic brush holders on the market.  Many artists I know prefer keeping makeup brushes in a fabric or faux leather brush roll.  I personally keep my brushes in drawers fitted with bamboo dividers.  Some of my brushes are stored in brush cups with a screw on lid that makes for easy portability.  Keeping brushes in a box with some sort of fabric or tissue paper underneath is also a good option.  Whatever method you opt for, I suggest rotating your brushes often.  After all they are meant to be used!

This is a picture of the inside of one of my Alex drawers from Ikea.  I have a bamboo organizer with adjustable dividers in place and have my brushes organized by brush type.  I store my more expensive brushes in a similar manner, but tend to keep them in a single layer.  Some worry that putting brushes in a drawer can flatten out or misshape the bristles.  For this reason, I rotate an use my brushes often.  There are some limited edition brushes that I keep in the boxes they came in.  I have also seen some more creative solutions online such as using a glasses case, jewelry box, or even a shoe box lined with tissue paper.

I do not recommend just throwing brushes in a drawer without some type of protection underneath.  The drawer dividers I use are also lined with contact paper and a clear coating so I can easily wipe them clean. 

Recap:

I personally clean brushes after every single use.  At the very least, clean your brushes weekly otherwise you are simply brushing bacteria onto your face. Remember, clean brushes with a solution that is right for you.  I know some makeup artists who swear by dish cleaning liquid.  If you are a professional makeup artist be sure to sanitize your brushes as well. Be gentle, and always squeeze out any excess water before laying flat to dry.  If using a cloth, be sure to use something lint-free such as a microfiber cloth. Only when your brushes are completely dry should you put them back in their dust-free storage area of your choosing. 

*I only own and use brushes made with synthetic bristles.  Synthetic bristles do not need to be conditioned.  They are not only more hygienic than natural hair bristles, but they are also hypoallergenic and kinder to our furry friends.

What do you use to clean your brushes?  How do you store your tools?  Please share your favorite makeup brush cleaning tips in the comments below!

A Complete Guide to Fall 2019 Makeup Looks - Look 7

A Complete Guide to Fall 2019 Makeup Looks - Look 7

*All products in this post purchased by me. Not sponsored. 

This is the final post in my Fall 2019 Makeup Guide.  Perfect for evening, glossy lips have replaced the matte lip trend. The good news is, you can simply top your favorite matte liquid lip with a lip gloss to update your look. Playing with color combinations, or just adding a slick of clear shine makes this look easy for anyone to wear. 

Here is how to get Look 7:

The Trend: Glossy Lips

Depending on the color, and your personal style, glossy lips can be worn day or night. However, this trend is really about emphasizing the lips and adding extra glamour to evening looks. Keep foundation dewy and natural, brows full, and eye makeup to a minimum to get the full impact of this trend. A little eyeliner and mascara is fine, but your lips should be the star. Gloss comes in a number of formulas, textures, colors and price points.  It has the ability to make lips look more voluminous, and sexy!

Some of the lip glosses that I love (pictured above) are: Alexis Vogel Luminous Gloss, Milani Amore Shine Liquid Lip Color, Trish McEvoy Beauty Booster SPF 15 Lip Gloss, Nuance Salma Hayek Ultra Shine Lip Gloss (my favorite clear), Jordana Cosmic Glow (try Chromatic Peach), and my personal favorite - Jeffree Star Cosmetics The Gloss.

One way to wear this trend that is especially popular this season is opting for a dark glossy lip. To keep your pout looking pristine, line your lips with a lip liner close to your natural lip color (I used Trick from Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics).  You can use the pencil to correct any unevenness or cheat a fuller lip. Fill in your lips with the pencil to create a base.  Top with a liquid lipstick in a terracotta, brick or a classic red color. I used Too Faced Melted Matte Liquid Lipstick in Gingerbread Man in the photo below. After your liquid lipstick has dried completely, top with your favorite gloss.  Start in the center of the bottom lip, spreading it out to the corners of your mouth, and press your lips together to coat your top lips. Apply a little extra to the top lip to accent the shape of your lips. I used Jeffree Star Cosmetics The Gloss in Wet Peach below. With so many different formulas on the market, it is important to make sure your liquid lipstick and gloss formulas are compatible. For example, a lip oil may break down the liquid lipstick.  I like The Gloss from Jeffree Star Cosmetics because they were designed specifically to work over liquid lipstick and there are a variety of colors and finishes to choose from. Layering a sheer, shimmery peach over a dark terracotta creates a unique and stunning lip combination that instantly makes your look appear more festive.  I love this type of look for holiday parties.  

If dark lip colors make you uncomfortable, simply layer a gloss over your usual lipstick hue. I feel like matte lips have been popular for so long, that I had to rediscover my love for gloss. If you prefer one product that does it all, try Milani Amore Shine Liquid Lipstick. This is a one and done product that works like traditional liquid lipstick, but has a high-gloss finish. If you like something custom, layer a couple of them together to create your own unique color. Below I combined the colors Addiction and Delight for a shiny nude lip.  To take the gloss to the next level, I applied a little bit of Jeffree Star The Gloss in Legends Only (creamy nude) to the center of my lips. 

I hope you enjoyed this guide to fall 2019 makeup looks.  Share your favorite trend in the comments below!

*All products in this post were purchased by me. This post is not sponsored. I do not get paid to write reviews or mention products.  All opinions are my own. 

A Complete Guide to Fall 2019 Makeup Looks - Looks 2-4

A Complete Guide to Fall 2019 Makeup Looks - Look 2-4

*All products in this post purchased by me.  Not sponsored. 

As promised, this next look will be all about the perfect lip colors for Fall 2019. This post will show three looks in total, all daytime appropriate. All three of them will begin with the same foundation and brow makeup.

For your foundation:

1. Prep your skin.  I recommend a good moisturizer that is appropriate for your skin type.  If there are parts of your face that get particularly shiny or oily throughout the day, you may want to add a primer to those sections. 
2. Prepare your tools. Wet your beauty sponge and decide which brushes you will use. This comes down to personal preference, though I will offer guidance along the way.
3. Apply your foundation. Start with the areas of your face that need the most coverage first.  Work in light layers, allowing the product to soak into your skin before adding more. The goal is to even out the skin, but we still want it to look like skin.
4. Add the finishing touches.  Now you can add your liquid highlighter and concealer as needed.
5. Set everything with a light layer of powder. Be cautious not to powder too heavily over the areas that you want your liquid highlighter to shine through. Depending on your skin type, you may want to leave the tops of your cheekbones powder free.  Otherwise, you can add a powder highlight over your powder at the end if desired. 

For natural looking brows:

1. Choose your weapon(s). Decide on a pencil, pomade, powder, wax, gel or any combination that you desire. 
2. Brush your brow hairs up with a spoolie. If necessary you may trim just the tips with a small pair of scissors, but natural brows are in so I recommend doing as little cutting/tweezing as possible. 
3. Start by emphasizing the bottom of your brow with the product(s) you chose in step one above. This will help even out the shape of your brows. 
4. Draw hair like strokes through any sparse areas of your brows with your pencil or brow powder.
5. Give a final brush through with your spoolie to blend in the product and set with a brow gel if desired. 

Now for Look 2

The Trend: Red lips (try crimson or oxblood)

This season lipstick should be worn in a very effortless way.  With your foundation on and brows groomed, all you need is a swipe of lipstick and you are ready to go!  Lipstick can be worn in a stain or glossy (concentrated in the center). For a more casual look, you may want to try a red that leans more gingerbread or even plum in hue. 

Some of my favorites are: Urban Decay in the color Gash, Jeffree Star Cosmetics Velour Liquid Lipstick in Designer Blood or Redrum, NYX Pump it Up Lip Plumper in Scarlett, Too Faced Melted Matte Long Wear Lipstick in Gingerbread Man. 

I used Redrum from Jeffree Star Cosmetics, painting it onto the center of my lips then spreading it over the rest of my lips using my pinky finger. 

Here is the final look:

I did end up adding a touch of mascara to my lashes after curling them. However, if you feel comfortable feel free to leave your lashes bare. 

Look 3

The Trend: Monochromatic looks in terracotta and/or mauve

For this look, I used the color mauve throughout the entirety of my face. Again, my foundation and brows were the same as above.  I was inspired by my Cover FX Monochromatic Blush Duo in Mojave Mauve.  This blush is just so stunning and easy to blend. Mauve has always been a color that just works for me. I began by applying the matte side of this blush duo onto my cheeks, and then applied the shimmery side in a light layer over it, focusing mostly on the tops of my cheekbones.  Instead of eyeshadow, I used this same blush duo on my eyes. Using a fluffy eyeshadow brush, I swept a light layer of the matter color through the crease of my eyes, and then tapped some of the shimmery side onto my eyelids. Using a cotton swab, I applied a little bit of the matte color along my lower lash line. For lips, I used a mixture of Urban Decay's glossy pencil in Lovechild and Tarte lipstick in Plummy Rose.  Then I patted just a tiny touch of the shimmery side of the blush duo onto the center of my lips to bring everything together. 

Due to the popularity of monochromatic makeup looks, many brands have eyeshadow and lipstick of the same color.  For example, Jeffree Star Cosmetics has eyeshadow and Velour Liquid Lipstick in colors Androgyny, Celebrity Skin and Dominatrix (to name a few).You may even want to use those eyeshadows as blush for the full monochromatic look!  Have fun and search your stash for colors that will liven up your look but still look good on cheeks, eyes and lips. 

Here is the final look:

As you can see, I skipped mascara for this look.  I did curl my lashes to keep the eyes open and bright. If you must wear mascara, try applying only one coat to the top lashes only. This is a great look for any occasion, and works well in the office, or using a richer color and some liner for evening. 

Look 4

The Trend: Natural makeup

This look is the easiest to pull off, and is suitable for everyday. It is not a "no makeup" type of look, but rather one that sticks to a more natural color palette. 

The Urban Decay Naked Palettes are a great pick for this look. I used the Naked 3 Palette, but you can use any of the Naked Palettes you prefer. You will want two matte eyeshadow colors (one highlight and one contour) and one shimmery color. I used Strange (an extremely light neutral matte pink), Burnout (matte light dusty rose) and Limit (pinky-peach satin) for my three shadows. 

You can use an eyeshadow primer if desired, then take your matte highlight eyeshadow and apply it from lash line up to just under your brow.  Using a crease brush, sweep your matte contour shadow through the crease of the eye. The colors should be light and blended together to keep everything very natural looking. Pat some of the shimmery eyeshadow on the eyelid to bring light to the look. 

Next, tight line your upper lash line with a brown eye pencil. I used Dominatrix (chocolate brown) Lip Liner from Jeffree Star Cosmetics (eye safe). Coat your top lashes only with mascara.  I used Ilia After Midnight Mascara to add some length. For blush, I used Tarte Amazonian Clay Blush in Exposed (a very natural looking nude color).  You want something that looks very natural and doesn't lean to pink or peach.  Matte formulas are best for natural makeup looks. If you do want to add a bit of a highlight for the appearance of a dewy complexion, use a fan brush to sweep The Balm's Mary-Lou Manizer on the tops of cheekbones. To keep everything looking as natural as possible, I went over the edges of my highlight and blush with a damp beauty sponge from Real Techniques. 

Finish off lips with a thin layer of gloss that is close to your natural lip color. 

Here is the final look:

I hope you enjoyed these daytime appropriate makeup looks. All three are quite easy to apply and are classic looks that never really go out of style, despite being on trend this season.  I have one more daytime look that is a bit more on the fun side coming up, and then a couple of evening looks to finish out the season.  Sadly, here in Chicago it has been quite snowy already so it does not feel like fall at all!

Thank you for reading, and don't forget to follow me on Twitter @MakeupMatters1

*All products in this post were purchased by me.  This is not a sponsored post. I do not get paid to write reviews or include any specific products in my posts.  All opinions are my own. 

A Complete Guide to Fall 2019 Makeup Looks - Look 1

*All products in this post purchased by me. Not sponsored. 

A Complete Guide to Fall 2019 Makeup Looks - Look 1

Welcome to another requested post from my Twitter family. This is the first look in a series of easy to apply, Fall 2019 makeup looks. I hope you find this series helpful for creating this season's trendiest looks.

The Trend: Dewy skin, natural brows, blue liner and mauve blush


You can wear any of these trends solo, or together as I have done here.  While it may seem like I am incorporating a number of trends into a single look, I think you will find that they work quite well together. The first part of this look, dewy skin, can really be worn with any type of makeup.

To create the appearance of a dewy complexion, you will want to start off with clean skin.  I recommend a consistent skincare routine that is appropriate for your skin type as well as the climate you live in.  Depending on where you live, you may have to adjust your skincare routine depending on the season.  I recommend starting by removing all traces of dirt and/or makeup with a damp microfiber cloth. These are essentially washcloths designed to grab every trace of grime from the skin.  You can find them at bed & bath shops, or online at places like amazon.com. If you wear eye makeup regularly, a good eye makeup remover is essential. Lately, I have been loving the affordable drugstore option from Physican's Formula.

Once your skin is squeaky clean, you will want to apply a liquid highlighter. I recommend Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector.  I used the color Opal here, but choose one that compliments your skin tone. Apply a thin layer of product allover your face and neck using a flat paddle foundation brush.  If this feels like too much glow for you, simply mix a few drops of liquid highlighter in with your usual foundation. No liquid highlighter on hand? Try mixing a touch of shimmery pigment in with your foundation instead for a similar effect.

Next, conceal as you normally would, and set only your concealer with powder.  You can lightly powder the rest of your face if desired, but we want some of that liquid highlighter to shine through so don't be too heavy handed.

Now for the magic, powder highlighter!  There are a number of great options on the market when it comes to powder highlighting products.  I used an old favorite, The Balm's Mary-Lou Manizer.  Hourglass Ambient Lighting Powder, or Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector Pressed (try Rose Gold) are also solid choices. Dust a tiny bit onto the tops of cheekbones, above your brows, cupid's bow and bridge of the nose. Start with just a little bit, and build the product up until you reach the desired amount of glow.

I think the tools you use to apply product are just as important as the products you choose (if not more so). My picks for powder highlighter application are the Real Techniques fan brush, or a small contour/highlight brush (such as Furless Cosmetics BC4 or Sephora Pro Highlight #98).

Now for brows.  You can use your regular brow products, just remember full, natural looking brows are on trend. I used Urban Decay Brow Box to fill in any sparse areas, and groomed my brows with a spoolie.  Natural, full looking brows can also be worn with any type of makeup look.

For eyes, apply a very thin layer of your favorite eyeshadow primer to your eyelids, being sure to stay close to the lash line (try Milani Eyeshadow Primer). Grab a navy blue eye pencil, and trace along your upper lash line.  I recommend doing one eye at a time, and going slowly.  Use a smudge brush (I used one from Urban Decay) to smudge out the color slightly, then draw over the line again, winging it out slightly. You can use a cotton swab to correct any mistakes. For the look below, I used Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil in the color Ransom. You can tight line with the same pencil if desired. If this feels a little bit too out of your comfort zone, you may want to tight line with your usual brown or black eye pencil instead. 

For blush, mauve is the color for Fall 2019. I used Cover FX Mojave Mauve Monochromatic Blush Duo. You can use just the matte side, or layer the shimmery side over the matte depending on your personal preference. This blush from Cover FX is truly fantastic. It is pigmented, and blends like a dream.

Keep lips neutral, by applying a neutral lip liner and a little bit of lip balm if desired.

Here is the final look:

What do you think? Try this look? I would love to see it! Show me on Twitter @MakeupMatters1.  Make sure you are subscribed so you don't miss the next look in this series (it is all about the perfect lip colors for Fall 2019). 

*All products in this post were purchased by me. This is not a sponsored post. I do not get paid to write reviews or mention products in my posts.  All opinions are my own. 

The Secret to College Makeup

It is almost time to go back to school. If you are heading off to college for the first time, you are probably feeling excited and a little nervous.Don't worry! I have some secrets to share with you that take the guess work out of college makeup. Instead of focusing on what makeup to bring to your new dorm, just follow my guide below so that you can focus on more important stuff (like your classes).  

Step 1: Assemble your college makeup kit. This may be slightly different for everyone, depending on what you normally wear. The general idea is to pack products that have more than one use, and help you feel both comfortable and confident. 

I recommend the following products:

• Powder
• Foundation / BB Cream / Tinted Moisturizer 
• Eye pencils
• Brushes
• Blush
• Lipstick
• Mascara

Keep your makeup minimal & affordable! School is expensive, but looking your best doesn't have to be.

Step 2: Define your makeup goals. For example, you may want to wear makeup that helps you look cute without it taking all day to get ready. Show the world you have beauty and brains.

Step 3: Apply your products.  

Late night study sessions (or too much partying) can leave your skin looking blotchy or dehydrated. Even out your skin by applying a tinted moisturizer, BB cream or foundation. I like products that do double duty. For example,  Aveda Mineral Tinted Moisturizer adds hydration to the skin with enough coverage to help you feel confident. If you are someone who needs a heavier coverage,Milani 2-in-1 Foundation & Concealer can be worn solo or layered on in targeted areas as a concealer. 

Mid-day can leave you looking oily. Adding a light dusting of loose powder can help keep your skin looking matte. Jeffree Star Cosmetics Magic Star Powder is a great option. If your skin is naturally more oily try Beauty Bakerie Flour Setting Powder.  Both brands offer good color choices and work for most skin types.  

Rather than bringing all of your eyeshadow palettes to school, eye pencils are the smartest choice. They are portable, and come in a ton of colors and finishes. Opt for the double sided chubby kind like Milani Brow & Eye Highlighters.  Use the Natural Taupe side to pencil in brows and the Vanilla side on your waterline to help you look more awake. If you want something more adventurous, Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-on Eye Pencils come in a lovely array of jewel tones, metallics and neutrals. Pick up a few so you always have options to change up your look. Use your finger or a cotton swab to smudge out your eye pencil for those campus parties. 

I love makeup brushes, but dorm life isn't conducive to constant brush washing. Bringing a ton of brushes, especially when skipping eyeshadow doesn't make sense. Instead, pack a good foundation brush to apply your base, and a fluffier brush to tap on your powder and sweep on blush. Real Techniques has some of the best, most affordable makeup brushes and they are very easy to find. 

Blush is one of those products that is seriously underrated. After applying foundation and powder, you have to add some color back into your face or you will look washed out, or just plain sick. Choose something with shimmer in it, such as Milani Baked Blush in Corallina. Glowy blushes add a healthy radiance to the skin and eliminates the need for a separate highlighter. 

Lipstick can liven up any look, plus it doubles as a cream blush! I recommend a color and formula that makes you feel the most like yourself.

Milani offers superior quality makeup at affordable prices. Their Color Statement Lipstick in the color Tropical Nude has a nice sheen to it, and allows a little bit of your natural lip color to peek through. These lipsticks are infused with vitamins that nourish the lips, so they always feel comfortable. Matte Innocence from the brand's Color Statement Matte Lipstick line, is the perfect everyday nude for those who don't like glossy lips.  The formula is not only cruelty-free, but also vegan. If you like your lipstick to double as a conversation starter, Jeffree Star Cosmetics plays with words by shaping the lipstick packaging on their Lip Ammunition lipstick like an actual bullet. While the packaging is super fun and different, the color selection has very practical options like my personal favorite Celebrity Skin (soft brown nude with a satin finish).Lip Ammunition Lipsticks are much more pigmented than your average lipstick, and you only need one swipe of color to achieve full opacity.  The formula is cruelty-free and vegan. 

Last, but not least is mascara. Nothing on the market adds drama quite like the combo of Milani Lash Trifecta Mascara with Covergirl Lash Blast Volume Mascara (both waterproof). The Milani mascara curls, separates and lengthens, while the chubby wand on the Covergirl tube adds volume and locks everything into place. I get so many compliments when I wear this combination that it really makes me wish I discovered it sooner! 

In reality, the most important thing about going to college is coming back a better person than you were when you went in. Go and learn, read, make friends, fall in love, have fun, and be safe.  Then come back and spread your new found knowledge out into the world. You are the future, and you are going to college! Always remember that there are people who didn't have the opportunity to go to college (for many different reasons). Never take anything for granted, and live your best life. I will be here, writing about makeup and giving you advice on how to make your outside match your inside. Be kind, stay open and know that while college will expose you to many new and exciting things, you may also face new challenges and fears. That is okay! Overcoming challenges is how we grow as people. I am really looking forward to seeing what kind of person you grow into. Even when you finally graduate and are finished with school, never stop learning. Everything in life is an opportunity to learn something new. Sometimes it is the hardest lessons that yield the most beautiful results. 

Good luck in your new school. 

Connect with me on Twitter @MakeupMatters1. 

*This is not a sponsored post. All of the products in this post were purchased by me. All opinions are my own.

How to Own Brushes Like a Pro!

How to Own Brushes Like a Pro!

Buying makeup brushes can be overwhelming. This is especially true if you are a new or aspiring makeup artist. I decided to put together this guide to teach you the best way to buy brushes for your kit.  This is also helpful if you are someone who creates a lot of makeup looks.  My secret?  Buying multiples of the brushes I use the most has been one of the best things I have done for my kit.   Shopping this way can prevent impulse purchases, and ensures that you always have the perfect brush handy. 

In some categories, you will notice I literally own several of the exact same brush.  In others, I simply like to have many of the same brush type handy.  The key is knowing which styles meet your needs.  Start by thinking about how you apply makeup, and which products you typically use.

Here is a quick look at what works for me: 

1. Bdellium Tools 776 (your favorite blending brush) - This brush is my favorite for blending eyeshadow. It is a multipurpose brush that works great with powder and cream products. The size, shape, and fluffiness of it meet all of my needs for achieving the perfect blend.  I always keep multiples of the Bdellium Tools Pink Bambu #776 brush handy because I know that no matter what eyeshadow look I am going for, this brush works well for me. If you have a different blending brush that you love, buy several of them.  This really makes it so much easier when you are working with different eyeshadow colors, so that you don't have to clean off the brush in between. I often use more than one blending brush when creating an eyeshadow look.  If you prefer a shorter handle length, the Green Bambu #776 is the same style, with the only difference being handle length and color of the brush. 

2. Flat Shader brush for packing on pigment (Sigma E54 Medium Sweeper) - If you love working with glitters and shimmers on the eyelid, a good pigment packer is a must! I like a medium sized brush head with bristles that come to a tapered tip.  This enables me to pat or sweep color onto the lid, then use the tip of the same brush to apply color along the lower lash line. 

3. Pencil Brush (Sigma E30 Pencil) - No, I don't have a Sigma discount code, nor am I a brand affiliate. Sigma just seems to put out a very good variety of brush shapes at reasonable prices. I own quite a few of their E30 Pencil Brushes because they are ideal for really smoking out the lower lash line. Use these with your favorite eyeliner or eyeshadow to get right under those lashes, or blend out any harsh lines for the perfect smokey eye. 

4. Face Fan Brush (multipurpose) - Scott Barnes #66 - There are some people who don't believe in fan brushes, but I can't live without them. This luxurious find from the great Scott Barnes is one that I use nearly every time I apply makeup. It is the perfect brush for sweeping on Hourglass Ambient Lighting Powder, dusting on highlight, blush, bronzer, or sweeping away that loose powder you are baking under your eyes. The unique tilted shape really fit the curves of the face in the most natural way.  This is the brush that made me fall in love with the entire brush line from this brand. If you are a professional artist, you can't go wrong with any from this line. 

5. Lip Brushes (PRO1L Furless Cosmetics) - If you are not a working makeup artist, you may not get a lot of use out of lip brushes.  I have always preferred to use a lip brush, even on myself for getting a really perfect looking pout.  No other brush beats my Furless Cosmetics Pro1L.  I own three of these and this brush has had a home in my kit for a number of years for a reason.  It allows me to really get into the corners of the mouth, and this brush can also be used for concealing small spots on the face, or even help in creating a cut crease on the eyes. 

6. Powder Brushes - setting powder, bronzer, powder blush. Have a few good sizes handy including one for more precise powdering (Scott Barnes,  Real Techniques, etc) - Kelley Quan #5, Scott Barnes #67, Sephora PRO Featherweight Powder #91, Princeton Neptune #6 & #8 - When it comes to powdering, I have three main sizes that I like to have multiples of; a small very tapered style, a medium size for blush or setting powder, and a super large brush for bronzing up the neck and body.

There are a lot of good options on the market.  I love these art brushes (pictured below) that I picked up at my local art supply store.  The Real Techniques setting brush or contour brush will also work for powdering small areas such as setting your under eye concealer.  The only difference between the two brushes pictured below is handle length. 

For a medium sized powder brush, Kelley Quan's #5 reigns supreme in my stash. These are a bit on the pricey side, so I only own two, but they are worth every penny. The bristles are unbelievably soft, and the quality is top-notch. I really love these for sweeping a variety of different powders on the face, using a pressing motion for setting powder or adding that perfect touch of highlight. 

Then there are the super huge rounded styles that are a must-have when bronzing the neck and chest area. For this brush, I don't own multiples of any one specific brush.  Instead I have a few of the same style across several different brands. The main reason for this, is that due to the very large brush head, these brushes tend to be the most expensive within their respective brands. If you have one that you love and want to buy a few by all means do so.  Since these are not something I use everyday, I have purchased the few that I own over time.  The two pictured below are my favorite in this size because the very rounded tip has the perfect amount of flexibility to not only apply product but really blend it out.  I use these mostly to apply bronzer along the shoulders for the most natural looking tan. 

7. Foundation Brush - Only of you don't use sponges (Marc Jacobs The Face Brush I and II) - If you are a professional makeup artist, you should only use disposables when it comes to makeup sponges.  The caveat to that, is if you plan to give the BeautyBlender or beauty sponge to the client, but BeautyBlenders cannot be properly sanitized so the same sponge should not be used across multiple clients. I do love beauty sponges, but only use them for personal use.  For everyone else, foundation brushes are a true staple.  I tend to favor the Marc Jacobs foundation brushes because the density of the bristles really give an airbrushed look to foundation. I like The Face Brush I for liquid or cream foundation, and favor The Face Brush II for mineral or powder foundation.

8. Flat paddle Brushes - great for face primers (Princeton Neptune Oval Wash, Furless Cosmetics PRO1F, S.I.L.K. Green Line Foundation GL-7, IT Cosmetics) - Speaking of foundation brushes, many people think of these flatter brushes for foundation application. I have used them for this purpose, but really like them better for primer application. I understand a lot of people apply primer with their fingertips, but using a flat brush enables a truly even application.  Many different brands sell this style of brush, but I tend to favor one with a slightly thicker brush head and rounded or angled bristles to better reach the inner corners of the face. 

9. Duo Fiber Face Brushes (for applying moisturizer) - Furless Cosmetics PRO6F, PPF3  - This brush is also commonly referred to as a stippling brush. I use this type of brush daily to apply moisturizer. I know a lot of people don't use this style, but it really is the best for layering up products onto the skin because you can both stipple and blend with the same brush.  Furless Cosmetics makes really great sizes of this brush in terms of bristle length and circumference of the tip. 

10. Concealer Brushes (flat and buffing style) - Also great for applying eye primer. (IT Cosmetics, Icing eyeshadow crease brush, Furless Cosmetics ME1, e.l.f. Angled Contour Brush) - Again, this is a brush that I use daily. In fact, I often use a few of these during one makeup application.  You will notice that most of them are not true concealer brushes.  They were designed for eyeshadow, but the angled flat tip almost works like fingertips to pat concealer on under the eyes. If you use a mineral or powder foundation, this style will conceal a blemish in a pinch.  Just pick up some of the powder, and gently swirl it around the spot using one of the angled brushes below.  The traditional flat style concealer brush (the first one in the below photo) is also perfect for applying eyeshadow primer in a nice even layer.

11. Angled Brushes / Push Liner (only if you don't use pencil exclusively) - Kelley Quan #17, Crown Brush Angled Brush, Smith #211, Sigma Flat Definer E15, S.I.L.K. Green Line GL-9 Flat Liner, Kelley Quan #15 - I almost did not include this last category of brush, because finding angled brushes is not difficult. However, when it comes to applying powder to the brow, my Kelley Quan #17 Wave Brush has been a staple in my kit for years. I do own a couple of them, and find them to be truly unique. The Smith #211 (third brush below) is a much stiffer bristled brush, which I like more for applying pomades.  Angled brushes can also be useful for applying winged liner, and a push liner brush can really help create the appearance of a thicker lash line.  I encourage you to think about which products you typically use.  For example, if you only use pencil and brow gel, an angled brow brush may not be important to you. If you do like these styles, think about how firm you like your bristles, and what size works best for your style. 

I hope you found this guide helpful. Again, what works for me may not work for everyone.  The overall theme here is to really think before you buy. Don't just buy a bunch of blending brushes because your favorite YouTube star told you to.  Instead, think about what you already own, and really focus on the shapes and styles that work best for you.  After analyzing the products you use, and which brushes are most important to you, it becomes easier to narrow down what you like.  Once you have found that perfect brush buy a few of them.  I think you will notice it is much easier to have a few of your favorites handy rather than settling for applying with another brush because the one you prefer is dirty. 

What brushes are your go-to?  Do you own multiples of your favorites?  

*This post may contain some brushes that were sent to me.  The majority of them were purchased by me. I do not write sponsored posts, or get paid to name any brands in anything I write. Brands mentioned are simply for informational purposes. All of the brushes mentioned in this post are brushes that I own and really use and love.