Beauty Review: My Staple Makeup Products

I don't really shop for cosmetics that much because I don't explore much when it comes to makeup. I just want my look to be plain and simple on an ordinary day. Well at times I try to put more effort on doing my makeup when attending events/parties or nightouts.

Probably I have only gained a higher interest with makeup when I have travelled to Seoul, Korea, where cosmetic shops are literally everywhere. And I think, the most expensive makeup item I have bought in my life is the Naked palette.

My tendency is to buy the same makeup item after what I have runs out. I don't buy/own multiple face powder/foundation at once, not unless they're given to me as gifts. I stick with the items that don't irritate my skin.

So far, here are the makeup products that I've been using. I recommend these items because they're very affordable and they're perfect to use on a daily basis. In fact, I can't leave the house without these stuff.

CONCEALER:

L'Oreal or Maybelline

I use it to cover some pimple marks and freckles.

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FOUNDATION/POWDER:

Maybelline Mineral Foundation

Revlon ColourStay Mineral Foundation

These two have a really nice finish. However, they're quite messy to apply since they're loose powder (with brush). Also, it's quite a hassle carrying them in a small bag/clutch since they're  quite bulky.

Revlon PhotoReady (pressed)

This is what I'm currently using and it's my favorite! I love its matte finish, and my face doesn't get oily that much. And hey, it's compact! I can slip it in any clutch when I go out.

EYEBROW LINER:

Nature Republic

I used to have a Maybelline one but when I found this in Korea, I tried it and loved it.

BLUSH:

Maybelline Mineral Blush (Shade: Rose)

It's not as compact as other blush-ons but I want it because it can give a natural blush (when a little is applied) or a full make up look at night (when more of it is applied).

EYELINER:

Shiseido Integrate (Black)

Before, I was using the Maybelline HyperSharp Liner when I want a thin line, and the Nature Republic pencil eyeliner when I want a thicker line. However, pencil eyeliners often smudge and make me look like a panda; while the HyperSharp liner kind of dries up fast so it can't be consumed for a long time. When I came to Japan, I borrowed my cousin's eyeliner and I liked it. It's the Shiseido Integrate black pen eyeliner. It doesn't smudge. It dried quickly once applied. And the tip of the pen doesn't dry out fast so it can be consumed for a long time.

MASCARA:

Maybelline

Every time my Maybelline mascara runs out, I buy another Maybelline mascara of a different type. I prefer a mascara that adds length and volume to my natural lashes. So far I have used the Volum' Express Cat Eyes (black&pink), Colossal (yellow), HyperCurl (black&pink), and Lash Stiletto, which is what I'm currently using. Next in line that I wanna give a try are the Rocket (blue) and Magnum (yellow) Volum' Express.

LIPSTICK:

Mac

I like the Candy Yum Yum, Russian Red, and Ruby Woo. However, those shades are not wearable everyday. I mean, I'm not the type who wears red lipstick at daytime haha. But Russian Red helped me pull off my Halloween costume as a sexified version of Wednesday Addams. Anyway, Mac lipsticks are quite expensive too, for someone who doesn't spend much for makeup. The Addis Ababa shade of Nyx Soft Matte Lip Cream actually looks like Candy Yum Yum, and it's way cheaper.

Nyx Soft Matte Lip Cream (Istanbul/Milan)

I discovered this in a bazaar in Eastwood. I love its matte finish. Plus, I love pink! And these are the shades of pink that are wearable on a regular day. Milan is brighter, while Istanbul is neared the nude shade. However, they almost looked the same. Maybe, Milan is better in events/parties or nightouts.

So, when my staple daily makeup products are put together, this is how it looks like:

See, I like that natural glowing look. Furthermore, I can wear the same makeup for a nightout. I just apply a thicker eyeliner, false lashes or more mascara, dark brown eyeshadow, and richer lip color.

xoxo,

city girl