Isolation is the perfect time to experiment with makeup and get to know your skin. Find the right shades for you, research products and try out new looks you wouldn’t dare to otherwise! I’m here to help make your post-quarantine makeup feel and look effortless with a few of my favorite products.
Chanel Water Foundation (I used shade “Medium.”)
I discovered this foundation at the Chanel Atelier Beaute in the Soho neighborhood of New York City. I walked in unsure of what the experience would entail, but left with a huge bag of Chanel goodies (oops). I asked the makeup experts which foundation they recommended to achieve a ‘no makeup’ look. I’ve avoided wearing foundation in the past because of their heavy, ‘face paint’ feeling on my skin. But this foundation feels so refreshing, and somehow stays on all day. Plus, its airbrushed look gives the impression that you aren’t wearing any makeup at all.
Vita Liberata Beauty Blur (I used shade “Latte.”)
When I know I want some extra coverage on my skin or am looking for a more glowy look, I combine a few pumps of this product with my Chanel Water Foundation. Together, they create the perfect mixture. This “Beauty Blur” truly does blur out imperfections. It also leaves a natural shimmer, leaving you looking like you just got back from vacation. This product can be difficult to find, but if you want to test out a travel version, you purchase it for a lower price on sites like Poshmark. I recommend stocking up!
Bobbi Brown Smokey Eye Mascara
I have turned almost every family member and friend on to this mascara. I’ve strayed from it many times, but always find myself back at the mercy of Bobbi Brown. First, it coats my lashes perfectly without leaving any clumps. Second, how many times has your mascara disintegrated throughout the day and left you with flakes of black charcoal under your eyes? Never again. This mascara stays put, and although it isn’t labeled waterproof, it has stayed on better in the rain, ocean and pool than my “waterproof” mascara. When taking it off, it washes away without dark residue or the necessity of harsh makeup wipes. You need to try it to believe it!
Tarte Shape Tape Concealer (I used shade “light medium.”)
If you’re always battling dark under eyes and bags, this product is for you. This concealer is on almost every beauty guru and influencer’s list of makeup “must-haves,” and now I understand why. I was making a huge mistake for years by trying to cover up sunburns, rashes or blemishes with any old concealer. With this gem, a little goes a long way — all day. Almost every day I dot it under my eyes and then blend it out with a beauty blender. The difference I see is almost scary!
Hoola Bronzer (I used shade “natural bronze.”)
This one is another hot ticket on nearly everyone’s essential makeup list, and for good reason. It’s technically bronzer, but I use this as contour, eyeshadow and even as a lip tint. It literally does it all — and works for every skin tone! If you’re already bronzed, more layers can help you achieve the full effects of this bronzer. If not, one swipe of this baby will give you the suntan you’re looking for. I use this for everyday eyeshadow, especially when traveling. Why waste money on an extra product when you already have the perfect shade in front of you?
Mac “Velvet Teddy” Lipstick
I always have lip liner, lipstick and gloss on deck. And this shade never fails me. No matter the occasion or outfit, this lipstick does the trick. A thin layer is perfect for everyday wear, but you can absolutely go thicker for a nighttime look. It doesn’t have a strong taste or smell. Plus, it feels lightweight on your lips, which is so important to me.
It Cosmetics Celebration Foundation (I used shade “medium.”)
This powder foundation is the first makeup I ever used. I would steal my mom’s as a kid, and boy did it make a difference even then. It’s the key to making your face look airbrushed and poreless. For someone like myself who sweats easily, it’s the perfect barrier for your skin and keeps shine away. Regardless if you’re a powder-user or not, this will change your makeup routine. Even on a day when I want to look like I didn’t try, a tiny bit of this powder makes it look like I spent 20 minutes on my makeup. It’s just that good.
Other products in the video:
Tarte Blush (in shade “paaarty”)
It Cosmetics Brow Power
Anastasia Beverly Hills Clear Brow gel
Becca Champagne Highlighter
Bobbi Brown Lip Liner (in shade “mauve”)
CeraVe Moisturizing Lotion
Rosehip Oil
Nanette Lepore Lash Curler
words & video_natalie abatemarco