After so much trial and error in finding cosmetics that work for me, I think I've finally got it down. I know this is one of the top issues when it comes to makeup so let me tell you what works for me in hopes of helping you find what will work for you.
My skin type is a combination between normal and oily. Normal being my cheeks, nose and chin - Oily being my forehead.
Drugstore Foundation:
Maybelline 24hr Superstay Foundation
This foundation can be summed up in one word: FLAWLESS. It is buildable coverage so it can be worn lightly or you can add a bit more if you have a few problem spots to hide. I apply it with my MAC 187 stippling brush and it gives me a nice dewy, flawless airbrushed finish.
High-End Foundation:
Nars Sheerglow Foundation
I normally wear this more than the Superstay foundation only because it's lighter in consistency and provides me with just enough coverage to cover up any discoloration but still allows my skin to breathe. Even though I am oily in some areas of my face I still prefer this to the matte foundation because it gives my skin a fresh, dewy no makeup look without making me look shiny.
Drugstore Mascara:
Max Factor 2000 Calorie Mascara
What can I say....I like this better than my high end mascara actually. It makes my lashes look curled, separated and full. No clumps! And the good part is if you're in a rush and you only apply one coat, it's more than enough to give your lashes a serious boost. I think I'll continue to use it forever <3
High-End Mascara:
Diorshow Mascara
I love this mascara because of the big, full lashes it gives me. It's great at making my lashes look so full and long almost giving you doll eyes. It is a bit better than my Max Factor mascara except for that fact that sometimes it smudges as the day goes on which is the only con. That's the only reason why I prefer the Max Factor to it and also it's a big price difference.
Drugstore Lipstick:
Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick
I really love the super lustrous lippies, they have a large color selection and they're all pretty pigmented and in my opinion comparable to some high end brands. My favorite lippy is called "just enough buff" It's a beautiful beige-y pink and goes on as a perfect nude lip. It's comparable to MACs creamsheen lipsticks.
High-End Lipstick:
MAC Lipstick
There's no doubt in my mind that MAC has the best lipsticks in the cosmetic industry. They come in an array of colors and finishes from matte to lustre to satin and so on. I will never get enough of my MAC lipsticks. They have the best pigmentation and you'll never have trouble finding your faves. They also have the best nude lipsticks I've ever used. My favorite everyday lipstick would have to be "Cherish" it is a satin finish nude lipstick. Goes perfect with the smokey eye or bronze look <3
Drugstore Blush:
NYX Powder Blush
If you're on a really low budget and you want a good quality, well-pigmented blush go for the nyx powder blushes. There are lots of shades to choose from so you won't have trouble finding something to complement your skin tone. My favorite nyx blush would be a toss up between "cinnamon" and "desert rose"
High-End Blush:
MAC Blush
Once again I'm going to have to say MAC has the best range of blushes. I am addicted to their blushes and lipsticks for the most part. I just love all of the different colors and types. They are long-lasting and there's always some really unique colors to add to your collection. My everyday blush color by MAC is "Gingerly". It is perfect for my skin tone and suits me when I'm pale and when I'm tan and it gives me a perfect rose bronze glow on my cheeks.
Well this is what I came up with for now :) It's pretty late at night and I have an early wake up call tomorrow so I will continue this tomorrow and add products like eye liner and eyeshadow. For now, it's time for me to cuddle up in my bed and snooze 'til the morning.
Sweet Dreams xx