Lipstick League Question of the Week:
If you were advising a
makeup newbie, which three items would you suggest that they get to
start with? (not counting base items)
G's Answer:
First and foremost: some good, affordable brushes (eye, blush, powder, etc.). Get some from brands like e.l.f. and EcoTools and experiment with them. When you find out what kinds of brushes are a necessity for you, then you'll be ready to splurge and upgrade your brushes if you so choose. But until you know what you like, and what works for you, it's a waste of money to invest in more expensive brushes (if you need them at all--I'm perfectly content with my less expensive brushes, but that's just me!). Don't get lured into the "must-have" brushes by expensive brands until you've tried a less expensive version first--that way you'll know if you truly need it. For example, a lot of people swear by fan brushes like this. I got lured into the hype and bought an expensive one a few years back, only to discover that I never reached for it or felt the need to use it. That's why I can't stress enough that you should experiment with inexpensive brushes first, so that you'll know what your particular needs are.
Second: a good, affordable mascara. All mascaras are not created equal, so first determine what your needs are vs. getting lured into the hype of the popular mascara of the day. Do you need volume? Length? Separation? Darkening? Once you figure out what you need, do internet searches for reviews on those types of mascaras and try some drugstore brands. And when reading reviews, determine whether or not the reviewer shares YOUR same needs. If someone gives a mascara a glowing review, find out WHY they love it. What works for her may not work for you, especially if she's basing her review on her need for volume while you're looking for a mascara that gives length and definition. Also, there's no need to spend $20+ on a mascara if you're new to makeup (I would argue there's never a need to spend that much on mascara but again, that's just me), so consider buying some mascara at the drugstore and keep your receipts so that you can easily exchange the products that don't work for you.
Third: a good "Your Lips But Better" shade. Again, this may take some time and experimentation, so watch the sales at the drugstores and keep your receipts in case the colors you buy don't work for you--exchange them until you find your perfect "Your Lips But Better" shade which will accentuate the natural color of you lips without looking "overdone". This type of lip color tends to work with just about any color combination you use on your eyes and cheeks, so it's perfect for a newbie who may not yet be skilled at matching lip color to eyeshadow.
And remember, CVS, Rite Aid and Walgreens all accept exchanges or returns on USED makeup, so if you're ready to start experimenting, make your purchases at drugstores that will accept returns/exchanges on the products you use and don't like. It's hassle-free and makes it so easy to find THE perfect products that work for you.
Links of the Week:
Prime Beauty – gets downright giddy when she discovers a new beauty brand and Rae Cosmetics has her squealing with delight. See why!
Phyrra – compares theBalm’s Shady Lady Vol. 1 and 2 side by side for you.
Vampy Varnish – talks about common new blogger mistakes and how to avoid them.
we heart this – A love letter to Sally Hansen Salon Effects in Love Letter (which just happens to be a perfect, easy Valentine’s manicure too!)
Beauty Junkies Unite – It’s raining tulips everywhere! Just kidding, it’s the review & swatches of OPI’s new Holland Collection for Spring/Summer 2012. I couldn’t decide which were my favorites, so I’m actually wearing different shades on my fingers and toes right now!
Clumps of Mascara – talks about an issue that many women go through or have gone through. In this week’s TMI Tuesday, we are talking about birth control.
Gouldylox Reviews – Is totally in love with this almost magical lip treatment. Yeah, it’s that good.
Nouveau Cheap – Jordana just rolled out 18 new specialty glitter polishes. If glitter’s your thing, come check out my three-part series covering every shade now available.
Pink Sith – invites her readers to the Natura Bisse Pure Air Bubble at Neiman Marcus in Tysons Corner, VA for February 22-25th, and gives a mini review for Inhibit-Dermafill.
What three products would YOU recommend to a makeup newbie?
1. Mascara - one that will hold a curl, not flake and won't irritate your eyes.
ReplyDelete2. Blush - one that is a close shade to your natural flush.
3. Lipstick - definitely a YLBB. Experiment with cheap ones like NYC or Wet 'n Wild. That way, if it doesn't work out for you, you won't be terribly upset.
I also use this for the quickest out-the-door makeup. With a good tinted moisturizer. If I can add a 4 and 5, I'd say eyeliner and eyelash curler.
I would definitely recommend:
ReplyDelete1. good quality inexpensive brushes - ecotools and elf are good ones to consider
2. mascara - drugstores have a great selection. look for something that holds a curl and doesn't flake and transfer
3. a good lip product. lipgloss, tinted balm or a moisturizing lipstick. Something that compliments your face. either a YLBB colour or a sheer colour. Something you can wear on a day to day basis and also dress up =D
Everyone else has had great suggestions. I would offer three points of advice. 1. Figure out your skin type and tone. It will make a huge difference in how you choose products that either work, or don't. 2. Use primer, both on face and eyes. A good cheap primer (like Black Radiance Complexion Perfection) can make such a huge difference in how your skin and makeup appear and perform. 3. Cost and quality are not equal. You do not have to spend a fortune to buy wonderful products.
ReplyDeletePersonally, my favorite mascara is the DiorShow. It makes my lashes full not flaky, and it looks so natural. I've tried lots of other mascaras--but DiorShow always wins.
ReplyDeleteHow about going to a makeup counter at the mall, one that reflects the way you want to look, and ask for some advice. They can help you figure out your skin type, tone, etc. and most will do this for free or for a small purchase. This might get you started. just a suggestion. Hope it helps!
ReplyDelete