Mascara. If I see a girl with natural lashes, I want to hand her a wand and lead her on a magical transformation that will change her entire face in one swoop. Makeup isn’t just an indulgence, it’s a necessity. At least in my world.
I’ve always been a makeup junkie. I’m a VIB insider at Sephora, in fact. My sensitive skin calls for delicate products that won’t irritate me. I can’t help it if the ingredients I need are in more luxurious brands! I had fun with makeup my whole life. But when I got pregnant, I had to realistically look at my finances and cut back expenses where appropriate. My makeup routine had to be revised.
My must-have products pre-baby:
Laura Mercier primer (I used the mineral blend but it seems to be discontinued) $34.00
Laura Mercier mineral foundation $39.00
BareMinerals Broad Spectrum SPF 20 Concealer $19.00
Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder $37.00
NARS blush (shade: orgasim) $30
Urban Decay Naked Palette eyeshadow $54.00
Benefit Cosmetics They’re Real! Mascara $24.00
During my pregnancy:
For most of my pregnancy, I didn’t even have energy to put on makeup. Luckily I work from home three days a week, so I could go makeup free. I decided to try out Neutrogena because it’s gentle on sensitive skin. I was pretty happy with everything except the blush. I need visibly cheery color on my cheeks and the Neutrogena blush was just too natural. The foundation worked good enough to wear to work, but I wouldn’t trust it for special occasions or photo opps. It didn’t have that full coverage I was used to. I guess Neutrogena is makeup for the natural woman, not the glam woman. Here’s what I used:
Neutrogena Shine Control Primer (rice protein) $12.99
Neutrogena Mineral Sheers Loose Powder Foundation $11.99
Neutrogena Shine Control Powder (rice protein) $11.99
Mascaras: I tried various drugstore brands and hated them all. I was extremely disappointed in Rimmel because every time I washed my face, the mascara became so watery that it made a mess all over my sink. Other mascara pet peeves? Flaking!
Mommyhood Makeup:
If there’s ever a time when you need to feel beautiful, it’s after you give birth. I’m still using Neutrogena in my day-to-day life, but Laura Mercier foundation is my go-to for special occasions.
Daily staples: NARS blush, Urban Decay eyeshadow, a mix of lip glosses and I am thrilled that my favorite mascara is back on the market:
Maybelline Lash Stiletto Ultimate Length Mascara $8.99
To sum it up, my mom look is a lot more natural, but I won’t sacrifice my looks if it makes me feel great! We give up so much of ourselves to be parents–happily– but we also need to take care of ourselves. It’s important!
