All things face

I spend quite a bit of time on YouTube watching beauty tutorials.  Not only are said videos entertaining but also educational.  My go-to beauty gurus are Casey Holmes, Jaclyn Hill and Manny Mua.  There is something relaxing, in my opinion, watching people put on makeup.  Yes that sounds weird.

A hurdle that I've recently overcome is foundation; so scary yet so necessary.  I wasn't born with naturally beautiful radiant skin like Liv Tyler.  I also wasn't born with skin like Lohan, so I guess that's a bonus.  ENTER ----> foundation.

With the help of YouTube tutorials and some practice, I now have a little confidence in proper foundation application.  Well, some confidence, good foundation brush, and ideal foundation for my skin tone and type.  (switching from a makeup sponge to a brush was pivotal)  

Currently, I am using Maybelline Fit Me Dewy + Smooth foundation in Ivory.

I have dry skin that needs a little sheen to make me look alive.  *Foundation is best applied after a clean face thats been moisturized and primed*  Once I apply foundation, I then go in with concealer (under eyes, around nostrils, between eyebrows)

It just so happens that the products mentioned above are Maybelline, but I swear, I'm not partial to any brand.  Blend out your concealer (I use my fingers while some prefer a beauty blender) and set with powder to keep your look locked in place.

For powders, my friend swears by Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder or Bare Minerals Well Rested Brightener Broad Spectrum Concealer Powder.  For those looking to spend less, a good drugstore dupe is Neutrogena's Shine Control Powder ($10).

In my short time writing about beauty, there is something to say about investing in prestige brands for foundation.  If you have problem skin such as rosacea, needing extra SPF or perhaps covering problematic unevenness, higher end foundations can make a difference.  Fiona Stiles is a well known makeup artist with her own line of cosmetics (ulta.com).  The Matte Finish Foundation Concentrate has received amazing reviews for hiding flaws in a full-coverage finish without a gross flat look.  So, if you want an all-day gorgeous and lightweight makeup, Fiona Stiles may be your brand.

The whole point of foundation and makeup in general is to ENHANCE what God has already given you-- NOT to look like the 2nd runner up in RuPaul's Drag Race.  I mean, if you're going for that Sasha Glitter look then go for it.  Work bitch.