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My "glam" makeup routine (April 2024)
41
items Am I a makeup artist or beauty influencer? Only in my dreams, but this is what I've found has worked for me! Note that I have fair, cool toned skin and I've called out the shades that I use - also noting that a few face products I use have been disco...
Sections
4
Prep
Glam
Reset
Tools
Prep
The most important part is prepping your skin to reduce as much texture and redness ahead of time instead of trying to cover it up with more makeup
1. Water-based cleanser
This helps to prep your face and remove any remaining impurities. I really like the Innisfree cleansers - I've used a number of different cleansers from this brand and have liked all of the ones I've used. The green tea line is great as a hydrating c...
This helps to prep your face and remove any remaining impurities. I really like the Innisfree cleansers - I've used a number of different cleansers from this brand and have liked all of the ones I've used. The green tea line is great as a hydrating c...
innisfree Face Wash & Cleansers
2. Toner
Remove dry skin cells and restore even texture with an acid toner. I've been using this AHA/BHA toner from CosRx lately in place of my usual Clinique combination toner. I'm honestly not sure if it's actually improving my skin texture or not yet, but ...
Remove dry skin cells and restore even texture with an acid toner. I've been using this AHA/BHA toner from CosRx lately in place of my usual Clinique combination toner. I'm honestly not sure if it's actually improving my skin texture or not yet, but ...
COSRX AHA BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner
3. Toner
Rebalance and add glow back in with a lightweight serum to prep your face for the remaining skin care steps. Make sure you leave enough time (at least 30 seconds) between the previous step and this one to make sure your face is ready to receive this ...
Rebalance and add glow back in with a lightweight serum to prep your face for the remaining skin care steps. Make sure you leave enough time (at least 30 seconds) between the previous step and this one to make sure your face is ready to receive this ...
Dewy Glow Toner with Jeju Cherry Blossom
4. OPTIONAL Serum
Plump your skin with a hyaluronic acid - make sure you wait at least 30 seconds after applying the toners to ensure your skin is ready to take the next layer! This hyaluronic serum received high marks from shoppers at Olive Young (a Korean beauty sto...
Plump your skin with a hyaluronic acid - make sure you wait at least 30 seconds after applying the toners to ensure your skin is ready to take the next layer! This hyaluronic serum received high marks from shoppers at Olive Young (a Korean beauty sto...
Torriden Dive In Serum 50mL
5. Vitamin C
Brighten (and protect against the sun) with a Vitamin C serum. I recently started using this and I really like the formulation! This is a pump style instead of a dropper and it's also a thicker, gel like formulation so it doesn't feel oily at all. It...
Brighten (and protect against the sun) with a Vitamin C serum. I recently started using this and I really like the formulation! This is a pump style instead of a dropper and it's also a thicker, gel like formulation so it doesn't feel oily at all. It...
goodal Green Tangerine Vita C Dark Spot Care ...
6. Moisturizer
Lock in the goodness with a moisturizer. As with all steps, make sure you leave enough time for the previous to soak in. I love the way this goes on the face - slightly gooey but feels so moisturizing! Super hydrating, so pat it in.
Lock in the goodness with a moisturizer. As with all steps, make sure you leave enough time for the previous to soak in. I love the way this goes on the face - slightly gooey but feels so moisturizing! Super hydrating, so pat it in.
MIZON - All In One Snail Repair Cream 75ml
7. Sunscreen
Finally, finish off your skincare prep with sun protection (a must even if you're inside!). I've been using this SKIN1004 Hyaluronic-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum and I really like the ingredients that offer additional skincare benefits: Hyaluronic acid to add moisture and cica to reduce inflammation. It has a great watery texture and it leaves a pretty glowy / dewy foundation for radiance before makeup. Make ...
Finally, finish off your skincare prep with sun protection (a must even if you're inside!). I've been using this SKIN1004 Hyaluronic-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum and I really like the ingredients that offer additional skincare benefits: Hyaluronic acid to add moisture and cica to reduce inflammation. It has a great watery texture and it leaves a pretty glowy / dewy foundation for radiance before makeup. Make ...
Skin1004 Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum
Glam
The fun comes here with the makeup applications!
1. Primer
I use this to create a smooth finish and grip. I don't love the feeling of primers but I actually don't mind the feeling of this one. It used to be at Sephora, but they stopped carrying it. I've found it at Marshalls once and also available on the To...
I use this to create a smooth finish and grip. I don't love the feeling of primers but I actually don't mind the feeling of this one. It used to be at Sephora, but they stopped carrying it. I've found it at Marshalls once and also available on the To...
No Poreblem Primer
2. Foundation
Most of the color correction / spot correction that I need to do is covered by my foundation. For “glam” looks (aka not my regular, everday), I've been loving the YSL All Hours in shade LC6. I was recommended this in store by my beauty advisor. I do ...
Pricey but a little goes soooooo far.
Most of the color correction / spot correction that I need to do is covered by my foundation. For “glam” looks (aka not my regular, everday), I've been loving the YSL All Hours in shade LC6. I was recommended this in store by my beauty advisor. I do ...
Pricey but a little goes soooooo far.
All Hours Luminous Natural Matte Foundation ...
3. Creme highlight / bronzer / contour
Next up is adding dimension back into the face. I've been using this set of contour sticks from Smashbox that includes a highlighter (matte), bronzer, and grey-toned contour. Unfortunately this set has been discontinued, so I've also linked a few oth...
Next up is adding dimension back into the face. I've been using this set of contour sticks from Smashbox that includes a highlighter (matte), bronzer, and grey-toned contour. Unfortunately this set has been discontinued, so I've also linked a few oth...
(DISCONTINUED) Smashbox Step-by-Step Contour Stick Trio
3 ALT. Creme highlighter / contour
This stick duo only features a matte highlighter and a contour that (to my unexperienced eye) reads less grey than my Smashbox option does, but it is conveniently packaged as two halves of the same stick. This is a drugstore option but you can also s...
This stick duo only features a matte highlighter and a contour that (to my unexperienced eye) reads less grey than my Smashbox option does, but it is conveniently packaged as two halves of the same stick. This is a drugstore option but you can also s...
Makeup Revolution Fast Base Contour Stick - Medium - 0.3oz
4. Liquid blush
My full review of this can be found on my main beauty list. This is a beautifully pigmented option that leads to an “oh shoot” moment right after you apply, but this formulation truly melts into the skin as you continue to buff it in with either fing...
My full review of this can be found on my main beauty list. This is a beautifully pigmented option that leads to an “oh shoot” moment right after you apply, but this formulation truly melts into the skin as you continue to buff it in with either fing...
Rare Beauty by Selena Gomez Soft Pinch Liquid Blush
5. Powder bronzer
I like to set my liquids / cremes with a powder as well for longevity. I've been using this powder bronzer to lock in the cream contour / bronzers with a nice, fluffy brush. I also sweep it lightly from the eye crease out to the temples to add a touc...
I like to set my liquids / cremes with a powder as well for longevity. I've been using this powder bronzer to lock in the cream contour / bronzers with a nice, fluffy brush. I also sweep it lightly from the eye crease out to the temples to add a touc...
Makeup Bronzer
6. Powder blush
Again, using this powder to set my liquid blush for longevity. With blush especially, I find that it's important to almost “overdo” it a bit at the start since blush is one of the first things that “disappears” on a long day.
I bought this in shade Shame On You as a dupe for the Nars Behave blush. I've also heard great things about the Milani pressed blushes (available at Target!) for another cheaper dupe.
Again, using this powder to set my liquid blush for longevity. With blush especially, I find that it's important to almost “overdo” it a bit at the start since blush is one of the first things that “disappears” on a long day.
I bought this in shade Shame On You as a dupe for the Nars Behave blush. I've also heard great things about the Milani pressed blushes (available at Target!) for another cheaper dupe.
Sephora Colorful® Blush
7. A hint of highlighter
Brush a very, very light dusting on the tops of your cheekbones to draw attention. My Ulta Beauty illuminator is also discontinued so I've linked the Milani baked highlighter that appears to be extremely similar in shade. I've also heard very good th...
Brush a very, very light dusting on the tops of your cheekbones to draw attention. My Ulta Beauty illuminator is also discontinued so I've linked the Milani baked highlighter that appears to be extremely similar in shade. I've also heard very good th...
Baked Highlighter - Milani
8. All over setting powder
I got a mini size as a gift and honestly it's been trucking along ever since. I'm using it to use it down, but I also have drugstore brands that I like just as much. For this, you want to focus on the areas that tend to get oily throughout the day, s...
I got a mini size as a gift and honestly it's been trucking along ever since. I'm using it to use it down, but I also have drugstore brands that I like just as much. For this, you want to focus on the areas that tend to get oily throughout the day, s...
Translucent Loose Setting Powder
9. (OPTIONAL) Eye Primer
I like the shade Sin since it matches my favorite shade for a base from the Urban Decay Naked (original) palette. When I know I'll be getting warm or be outside for a stretch of time, I'll use a little bit of primer to set the stage. I like to also g...
I like the shade Sin since it matches my favorite shade for a base from the Urban Decay Naked (original) palette. When I know I'll be getting warm or be outside for a stretch of time, I'll use a little bit of primer to set the stage. I like to also g...
Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion - Sephora
9. Eye Primer
If I don't use an actual eye primer, I'll just go in with an eyeshadow stick that is a neutral, slightly shimmery color all over the lid. I like the Or Rose (literally French for rose gold) shade as a good alternative to the Urban Decay Sin.
If I don't use an actual eye primer, I'll just go in with an eyeshadow stick that is a neutral, slightly shimmery color all over the lid. I like the Or Rose (literally French for rose gold) shade as a good alternative to the Urban Decay Sin.
Ombre Hypnôse Stylo Eyeshadow Stick
10. Eyebrows
While I'm waiting for the eye primer layer to dry down, I start my eyebrows since they help to frame the face. Lately, I've been shaping more of a straighter line rather than a sharper arch towards the end. My usual shade here is a 3.5 (neutral brown...
While I'm waiting for the eye primer layer to dry down, I start my eyebrows since they help to frame the face. Lately, I've been shaping more of a straighter line rather than a sharper arch towards the end. My usual shade here is a 3.5 (neutral brown...
Goof Proof Waterproof Easy Shape & Fill Eyebrow Pencil
11. Eyebrow Gel
I've been following up (or even starting) with an eyebrow gel lately in a lighter brown shade. I think it helps keep things looking neat while also warming up the look a bit and adding dimensionality.
I've been following up (or even starting) with an eyebrow gel lately in a lighter brown shade. I think it helps keep things looking neat while also warming up the look a bit and adding dimensionality.
Kiss me Heavy Rotation Coloring Eyebrow
12. Eyeshadow
Lately I've been loving the Sephora brand Destinations Eye Palette. Unfortunately it was a limited release and is no longer carried. However, I've also linked a similar shade range that is still available!
Lately I've been loving the Sephora brand Destinations Eye Palette. Unfortunately it was a limited release and is no longer carried. However, I've also linked a similar shade range that is still available!
DISCONTINUED Sephora Destinations™ Eye Palette
12. ALT Eyeshadow
I'm currently loving the slightly peachy / orange-y eyeshadow look. I like using more neutral shade to contour the eye are as well as I have only a small double eyelid. I use my finger to press the shimmery shades into the inner corner to help bright...
I'm currently loving the slightly peachy / orange-y eyeshadow look. I like using more neutral shade to contour the eye are as well as I have only a small double eyelid. I use my finger to press the shimmery shades into the inner corner to help bright...
Tarte Tartelette Toasted Eyeshadow Palette
13. Eyeliner
I use this judiciously, applying on a little bit tight against my waterline to help define my eyes. I don't got all the way into the inner corner, stopping about halfway through and less than a quarter in from the outer edge on the bottom.
I use this judiciously, applying on a little bit tight against my waterline to help define my eyes. I don't got all the way into the inner corner, stopping about halfway through and less than a quarter in from the outer edge on the bottom.
24/7 Waterline Eye Pencil - Urban Decay
13. Eyeliner
I also follow up with this eyeliner to create a little bit of a flicked wingtip on the outer edge.
I also follow up with this eyeliner to create a little bit of a flicked wingtip on the outer edge.
Maybelline Hyper Easy Liquid Pen Eyeliner - Black - 0.018 fl oz
13. Eyeliner
For a softer look, I'll use this Sephora collection jumbo eyeliner instead of the Urban Decay or Maybelline liners. Unfortunately, my favorite jumbo eyeliner / eyeshadow stick is discontinued, but it looks like they have another eyeliner+eyeshadow op...
For a softer look, I'll use this Sephora collection jumbo eyeliner instead of the Urban Decay or Maybelline liners. Unfortunately, my favorite jumbo eyeliner / eyeshadow stick is discontinued, but it looks like they have another eyeliner+eyeshadow op...
Brown Eyeliners
14. Mascara
I've heard of this product for years as a dupe for Benefit's Better than Sex but I never purchased it. However, I've been testing out different waterproof formulas for my wedding and I have learned to absolutely love this. It's truly waterproof - lit...
I've heard of this product for years as a dupe for Benefit's Better than Sex but I never purchased it. However, I've been testing out different waterproof formulas for my wedding and I have learned to absolutely love this. It's truly waterproof - lit...
L'oreal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise Mascara
15. Setting Spray
I bought this Urban Decay setting spray for my travel makeup bag and I'll alternate between this, the CoverFX, and the Pacifica. All three help lock everything in place all day and all night!
I bought this Urban Decay setting spray for my travel makeup bag and I'll alternate between this, the CoverFX, and the Pacifica. All three help lock everything in place all day and all night!
All Nighter Waterproof Makeup Setting Spray
15. Setting Spray
I have the old version of the CoverFX setting spray (see the second picture to see the difference) that has more of a spray nozzle than an aerosol. Personally, I don't mind the spray version, but I do appreciate the ease of the aerosol version (which...
I have the old version of the CoverFX setting spray (see the second picture to see the difference) that has more of a spray nozzle than an aerosol. Personally, I don't mind the spray version, but I do appreciate the ease of the aerosol version (which...
High Performance Setting Spray
15. Setting Spray
I bought this Pacifica Setting Spray because it had additional SPF and it was marketed as mattifying. I'm not sure if it is more or less mattifying than either of the higher end setting sprays I have, but I do appreciate the additional SPF coverage e...
I bought this Pacifica Setting Spray because it had additional SPF and it was marketed as mattifying. I'm not sure if it is more or less mattifying than either of the higher end setting sprays I have, but I do appreciate the additional SPF coverage e...
Pacifica : Setting Spray & Powder
Reset
At the end of the day, it's time to take it all off.
1. Oil-based Cleanser
Start with a clean face! I use this at night to make sure I get everything off my face to allow my skin to breathe. The oil based cleanser helps to break down all of the waterproof makeup.
A top selling cleansing oil in Korea. To use, gently massage a pump onto your face and rinse with water. Follow with a water-based cleanser. This one is available at Target!
Start with a clean face! I use this at night to make sure I get everything off my face to allow my skin to breathe. The oil based cleanser helps to break down all of the waterproof makeup.
A top selling cleansing oil in Korea. To use, gently massage a pump onto your face and rinse with water. Follow with a water-based cleanser. This one is available at Target!
ma:nyo Pure Cleansing Face Oil - 6.7oz
2. OPTIONAL Micellar Water
This basically works like the oil cleanser if the oil cleanser was first mixed with water. For any remaining waterproof eye makeup, I'll use a bit of this on a cotton pad (or even a folded up square of toilet paper) and just place it on my eyelid to ...
This basically works like the oil cleanser if the oil cleanser was first mixed with water. For any remaining waterproof eye makeup, I'll use a bit of this on a cotton pad (or even a folded up square of toilet paper) and just place it on my eyelid to ...
Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water Skin Care ...
3. Water-based Cleanser
We're back with another round of water based cleansers and yes, you can use the same one from the morning!
We're back with another round of water based cleansers and yes, you can use the same one from the morning!
innisfree Face Wash & Cleansers
Tools
Toner pad
I use my hands for most skincare prep steps with the exception of the acid toner where I first spray it onto this pad, before gently wiping across the face to help remove any remaining dead skin.
I use my hands for most skincare prep steps with the exception of the acid toner where I first spray it onto this pad, before gently wiping across the face to help remove any remaining dead skin.
Basic Cotton Rounds
Foundation brush
I use my fingers for the primer, so this is the first tool used in the glam section.
I use my fingers for the primer, so this is the first tool used in the glam section.
Foundation Buffing Brush
Creme brush
I use this to blend out my creme highlighter, bronzer, and contour products. The straight line helps me keep the products where I placed them rather than starting to blend out.
I use this to blend out my creme highlighter, bronzer, and contour products. The straight line helps me keep the products where I placed them rather than starting to blend out.
Contouring Brush
Powder bronzer brush
I use the cheaper version of the ELF tools for the powder bronzer which I use sparingly enough for me not to have noticed too much difference in quality.
I use the cheaper version of the ELF tools for the powder bronzer which I use sparingly enough for me not to have noticed too much difference in quality.
Angled Bronzing Brush
Powder blush brush
I like a less angled brush for blush so I can more easily do softer circles to set the liquid blush. The one I have is discontinued, but it has more of a tapered point.
I like a less angled brush for blush so I can more easily do softer circles to set the liquid blush. The one I have is discontinued, but it has more of a tapered point.
Powder Brush
Setting powder brush
Remember in the movie Despicable Me where Agnes goes “IT'S SO FLUFFY”? That's me when I use this brush to press setting powder all over. The flat head allows me to literally press it into place (while also navigating around the nose area).
Remember in the movie Despicable Me where Agnes goes “IT'S SO FLUFFY”? That's me when I use this brush to press setting powder all over. The flat head allows me to literally press it into place (while also navigating around the nose area).
Powder Brush
Eyeshadow brush
I use this to lay down a base layer of eyeshadow over the entire eyelid, and then use it again to sweep a lighter, shimmery shade on the inner corners.
I use this to lay down a base layer of eyeshadow over the entire eyelid, and then use it again to sweep a lighter, shimmery shade on the inner corners.
Small Eyeshadow Brush
Eyeshadow brush
I use this to start to contour the eyelid using small circles and windshield wiper motions around the crease. I use this on lighter shades and then progressively darker as I move tighter to just the outer corner.
I use this to start to contour the eyelid using small circles and windshield wiper motions around the crease. I use this on lighter shades and then progressively darker as I move tighter to just the outer corner.
Eye Crease Brush
Eyeshadow brush
I use this to just clean up all of the edges and make sure they blend together and blend without a harsh color transition on the eyelid.
I use this to just clean up all of the edges and make sure they blend together and blend without a harsh color transition on the eyelid.
Blending Brush