If there’s one thing that gets me crazy-excited, it’s talking about beauty products ( I mean, seriously, who doesn’t love a good mascara, right?).
And while there are countless options and new releases in the market, there are some beauty products that have truly stood the test of time and have earned a permanent spot in my makeup bag.
From skincare to makeup, here’s a list of must-have beauty products that every beauty lover needs to try.
Skincare Must-Haves
Skincare is the foundation of any good makeup routine, and these products have proven to be game-changers for my skin.
- Cleanser: A gentle cleanser is a must-have for removing dirt, makeup, and impurities from the skin. Look for one that is suitable for your skin type and does not strip the skin of its natural oils.
- Moisturizer: Hydrating your skin is crucial for maintaining a healthy and glowing complexion. Choose a moisturizer that suits your skin type and provides long-lasting hydration.
- Sunscreen: Protecting your skin from the harmful rays of the sun is essential, even on cloudy days. Opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to keep your skin safe from UV damage.
My Fave Cleansers
- Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser: This cult-favorite cleanser is perfect for all skin types and effectively removes dirt, oil, and makeup without stripping the skin.
- Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Gel Cleanser: Infused with hyaluronic acid, this cleanser not only removes impurities but also hydrates the skin, leaving it feeling soft and supple.
- Fresh Soy Face Cleanser: This gentle cleanser is perfect for sensitive skin and effectively removes makeup without causing irritation. It also contains soy proteins that help maintain the skin’s elasticity.
Must-Try Moisturizers
- Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion+: This iconic moisturizer provides intense hydration without feeling heavy on the skin. It also helps to strengthen the skin’s moisture barrier, keeping it hydrated for hours.
- The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA: This affordable moisturizer is packed with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides, making it perfect for dry and dehydrated skin.
- Tatcha The Water Cream: This lightweight gel moisturizer is perfect for oily and combination skin as it provides hydration without clogging pores. It also contains Japanese wild rose to minimize the appearance of pores.
Makeup Must-Haves
No makeup collection is complete without these tried-and-tested products that have become staples in my everyday routine.
My 10 must-have items.
#1. Primer: Too Faced Hangover Primer
- Why I love it? Because, like a morning-after savior that your skin didn’t know it needed, this primer is infused with coconut water, probiotics and skin revivers that work together to boost your skin’s radiance, promote elasticity and help hydrate while keeping your makeup in place all day long.
- Alternative: NYX Professional Makeup Honey Dew Me Up Primer, considerably less pricey, it’s also a great option.
#2. Foundation: Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation
- Why I love it? This medium-to-full coverage foundation has a lightweight, oil-free formula that won’t clog pores. The diverse range of 50 shades, YES 50! Ensures there’s one for every skin tone.
- Alternative: Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Foundation. This drugstore darling provides excellent coverage for less.
#3. Mascara: Better Than Sex Mascara by Too Faced
- Why I love it? Not going to beat around the bush here; it’s the BEST. It separates, coats, and curls each lash to voluptuous perfection.
- Alternative: L’Oreal Paris Voluminous Original Mascara. It gives great results without making your purse sad.
#4. Eyeliner: Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner
- Why I love it? The precision and staying power of this liner are almost gimmick-like; perfect for both subtle and bold eyes.
- Alternative: NYX Professional Makeup Epic Ink Liner. A budget-friendly version that does the job as well.
#5. Lipstick: MAC Ruby Woo Lipstick
- Why I love it? It’s ultra-matte, ultra-pigmented and ultra-long-lasting. Plus, this red looks good on EVERYONE.
- Alternative: Maybelline Color Sensational Creamy Matte Lipstick in Siren in Scarlet.
#6. Setting powder: Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder
- Why I love it? It gives a ‘soft-focus’ appearance, subtlety blurring fine lines and imperfections, and the staying power is amazing.
- Alternative: e.l.f. Studio High Definition Powder, a universal, translucent loose powder that sets the foundation for an extended period.
#7. Lip Balm: Burt’s Bees 100% Natural Lip Balm
- Why I love it? It’s enriched with 100% natural ingredients and keeps lips hydrated and smooth for a long-lasting comfort.
- Alternative: Nivea Fruity Shine Lip Balm for a touch of shimmer.
#8. Makeup Remover: Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water
- Why I love it? It’s gentle, effective and suitable for all skin types.
- Alternative: Neutrogena Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes for when you’re on the go.
#9. Highlighter: Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector
- Why I love it? This is a builder highlighter! Subtle or extra – it can do both.
- Alternative: Wet N Wild Megaglo Highlighting Powder, cheap and versatile.
#10. Eyebrow Pencil: Benefit Cosmetics Goof Proof Brow Pencil
- Why I love it? It’s easy to use, and it stays on all day. Plus, the range of hues is impressive.
- Alternative: NYX Professional Makeup Micro Brow Pencil for a good product at a steal.
Of course, remember every skin is unique, so always test products to see what works for you. What’s your beauty must-have that you absolutely can’t live without?