After 12 years of makeup artistry and a life time passion for beauty products I feel I’ve got some chops on the things that actually work.
This is my list of things I either 100% wouldn’t pack my kit without (and check religiously before leaving the house) or I use at home and keep repeat buying.
Laura Mercier Oil Free Tinted Moisturiser
I deviate but then I come back to it, it’s the perfect ‘nothing’ coverage, not too dry, not too shimmery. Stick to the oil free version as it lasts on the skin better. I wear shade Nude if that helps you.
Nivea Soft Moisturiser
What can I say - it’s under £3 but I LOVE it under makeup - it gives an innate glow, it leaves the skin supple and hydrated. This is my every day ‘go to’ before SPF and makeup
Kate Somerville Goat Milk Cleanser
A beautiful, beautiful cleanser, I keep it in the shower - zero drying to the skin, gorgeous texture, worth the money IMO
Don’t be put off by the ambiguous name, a drop or two of this in your morning moisturiser gives you a ‘I’ve had a good night’s sleep’ or ‘I had a facial yesterday’ glow. I also put some on to my fingertips and press it on the top of my cheek bones. A genius genius grown up and sophisticated glow.
If you’re someone (like me) who suffers from creasing eyeshadow or smudgy eyeliner this eyeshadow base stops everything on your eye moving about. It actually works and I wouldn’t wear any eye makeup without putting it on first. Absolute ride or die. P.S o only the colourless one is good IMO
I’m generally underwhelmed by eye cream but this is (expensive but) worth it. So good, soothing and made by a seriously qualified and academic dermatologist. I notice a difference when I use it.
Max Factor Miracle Touch Creamy Blusher - Soft Copper
(disclaimer this applies only to skin tones similar to mine - medium fair white) magic magic cream blusher. It’s not warm, it’s not cool - it just looks like you’ve been on a walk. Completely randomly one of my favourite products.
Maybelline Lash Sensational Mascara
Doesn’t smudge, lifts and separate lashes and cheap as chips. Just remember to replace it every 8 weeks - you shouldn’t be keeping mascara any longer than this.
Not on the hype train with most of CT products but the powder is worth the fuss. Great colours, so finely milled and beautifully packaged. I wear shade 2
MAC Prep & Prime Primer - Radiant Yellow
Primers are a great way for brands to sell you an extra product. I like this one though - it makes the skin look better.
**** this post includes affiliate links
