In previous posts, I talked about my self makeover. I already discussed the decision to make the changes, and how I changed my wardrobe. My next step was looking for makeup. Very much like the clothes, I simply knew that I wanted a simple makeup and skin care routine that I did not hate.
I didn't want to take forever to apply, nor remove my makeup. I wasn’t interested in base, powder, shading, or contouring. I did not want fancy colors or sparkles on my eyes. I did not want to spend more than fifteen minutes on my make-up. Tops! And, I wanted to spend the same or less time removing it, without drying out my skin, or irritating my eyes. To top it all off, I have sensitive skin, AND skin cancer runs in my family, so I needed to be sure of clean, natural ingredients.
As far as makeup went, I simply wanted to highlight my natural features. I knew I was looking for mascara, cheek color, lip color, and some basic highlights. I also learned that women over 50, like myself, should really use cream makeup, especially on eyes, instead of powder. Powder tends to crease on older women. Honestly, I’ve never been a huge fan of powders, as it is. They always showed up all over the face, and not just where applied. So, I set off looking for cream based makeup.
After much research, I found a simple makeup set that consisted of two makeup sticks. One was a color for lips and cheeks, the other was for highlighting. Both can be used on the eyelids together, or separate for several different looks. Then I found a mascara which met my particular specifications. I even ended up buying some gel eyeliner so I could step my look up when I felt like it. With these four simple products, I actually had a variety of looks to go with my moods or the occasion.
There are several different companies offering the color and highlight sticks in various shades, so I can change it up with the seasons or my mood, but still have the same basic routine. Everyone has their own mascara preferences. I did not want waterproof, and I like a coconut oil base. I found one within my price range and have it set on subscription so that I have a new one sent at the end of the suggested shelf life.
I watched several YouTube videos on how to apply these products. I found basic tips that work for me and forgot the others. I practiced these tips, reworked them to my preferences and got my routine down. I now can apply a simple look in 5 minutes (highlighting my eyes), a basic look in about 10 minutes (eyes, cheeks, and some highlights and color), and a full-face makeup look in 15 minutes or less (eyes, cheeks, highlights, eyeliner, and some neck color). I can even easily toss 4 items into my makeup bag, and apply them on the road when running late.
That took care of application. I had an easy to apply look that didn’t require an art degree to apply, and I could apply it quickly. However, I still needed to remove it at the end of the day.
I have sensitive skin that dries out easily. I do not use soap, and most cleansers tend to irritate or burn. I wanted something simple, but gentle. I discovered oil cleansing. It’s very gentle, and doesn’t require scrubbing. It’s easy and gentle. Best of all, it leaves a layer of moisturizer on my face. Speaking my language.
This is my simple makeup and skin care routine. What was your journey like? Are you happy with your makeup and skin care or are you still looking?
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