Discovering the Glow: Top Makeup Picks from My Kit
Hello there! It's your friend in all things makeup. I’ve been thinking about sharing my favs here for a while, and there’s no time like the present, right? I’ve been a makeup artist working in LA for a while now I feel confident that I’ve been through the trenches trying to find the best of the best so here we go. Now, let's talk about some real gems I've encountered in my makeup journey. Every item I'm about to share with you holds a special place in my kit. These aren’t just random picks; I use them regularly, know them inside out, and genuinely adore them. Each one plays a crucial role in crafting that soft, radiant finish many of us aim for. So, without further ado, let’s delve into these tried and true favorites.
1. Liquid Highlighters:
Charlotte Tilbury Beauty Light Wand:
A versatile pick, it can be blended on top of or under your foundation or applied as a delicate highlight. It's subtle yet transformative, lending a soft-focus glow. I love to add a small amount of this onto the inner corners of the eyes to add a bright, awakening pop!
Becca Ignite Liquified Light Highlighter:
This product, despite Becca's much-discussed closure, remains iconic. The glow it offers is seamless, ensuring the skin looks naturally radiant. A little bit will go a very long way and with the size of this bottle it may last you past expiration. I love to use it on the face, shoulders, décolletage, sternum, calves, thighs, basically anywhere you want to have that gorgeous shimmer.
E.L.F Halo Glow:
On the budget-friendly end, this highlighter impresses with its versatility. Are we seeing a trend here from me? This product works beautifully under your foundation, as a gentle highlighter on your high points, or, how I personally like to use it - just as foundation. If you tend to lean oily you may want to use either use this sparingly, or make sure to use a setting powder.
2. Bronzers:
Charlotte Tilbury Bronzer Wand:
Easy to apply and blend, this liquid bronzer offers a sun-kissed look that's both natural and glamorous. This product really does double as a bronzer and a contour. I like to use it in layers. Start small with one or two dots, blend and repeat for desired results. This is my go-to for brides.
Chanel Soleil Tan de Chanel:
A cult-favorite for a reason, this creamy bronzer seamlessly blends into the skin, offering depth and warmth that’s perfect for contouring or a natural bronzed look. It really is so creamy and blendable, it’s no wonder why I’ve repurchased multiple times to keep my kit stocked. On a side note, I do wish there was a larger shade range. I think this really only caters to light to medium skin tones.
E.L.F Putty Bronzer:
Smooth in texture and offering a matte finish, it's an excellent choice for those who love sculpting their features without the shimmer. Plus, it’s incredibly pocket-friendly. Creamy and highly pigmented formula creates a long-lasting bronzed glow, infused with Argan Oil & Vitamin E.
3. Blushes:
Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush:
A Selena Gomez creation, it offers a touch of natural color that’s beautifully blendable. Both its matte and dewy finishes have their moments. I love the design on the component as well. The ball at the top of the container was created to make it easier to open for those with arthritis, MS, muscular dystrophy, etc. All in all very thoughtful, and wildly pigmented as well. Additionally I LOVE this shade range and ability to work on a large spectrum on skin tones.
NARS Liquid Blush:
Customizable intensity is its forte. Whether you're in the mood for a gentle flush or a more vibrant hue, this has you covered. NARS Liquid Blush is acclaimed for its blendable formula, intense pigmentation, and versatile application, allowing for a natural or dramatic flush of color. With a wide shade range and skin-friendly finish, it provides long-lasting wear without emphasizing pores. Its reputation as a high-quality brand adds to its appeal for makeup enthusiasts of various skin types.
4. Lip Glosses:
E.L.F. Lip Plumping Gloss:
This gloss is a lovely addition for daily wear, offering a hint of shimmer and a gentle plumping effect and lauded for providing fuller-looking lips. Its non-sticky formula offers comfortable wear while delivering a hint of color and high-shine finish. With an affordable price point, it's a popular choice for those seeking a budget-friendly option for enhancing their lip appearance. I also love the shade ranges!
Rare Beauty Glossy Lip Balm:
Straddling the line between hydration and shine, it's perfect for those days you want a fuss-free finish. It’s highly regarded for its luxurious and non-sticky formula that imparts a brilliant shine to the lips. The range of inclusive shades complements diverse skin tones, and its moisturizing properties contribute to a comfortable all-day wear. The brand's commitment to promoting self-expression and individuality adds to the appeal of this popular lip gloss.
NARS Afterglow Lip Gloss:
Known for its silky texture and understated sheen, it’s a great companion for both day and night looks. This might honestly be my favorite of all time. I love how comfortable it is on the lips and subtle gold flecks. If I could bathe in this I would, it looks so good on everyone!
In the vast world of makeup, these products stand out for their quality and reliability, as evidenced by their prized spots in my own kit. The best part? They cater to a range of budgets, ensuring everyone finds their perfect match. If you ever fancy trying these out or getting a closer look, remember, I'm just around the corner, ready to share my passion and expertise.