Mini Beauty Journal My Skincare Routine Makeup And DIY Mask
Hey guys! Welcome to my mini beauty journal! I'm super excited to share with you my latest beauty adventures and creations. I've been experimenting with some new products and techniques, and I can't wait to tell you all about them. In this blog post, I'll be diving into my current skincare routine, some makeup looks I've been loving, and of course, my latest beauty creation – a DIY face mask that's seriously a game-changer. So, grab your favorite cozy blanket, a cup of tea, and let's get started!
My Current Skincare Routine: The Foundation for Flawless Makeup
Having a solid skincare routine is the bedrock of any great makeup look. You know what they say, "Healthy skin, happy makeup!" And I couldn't agree more. I've really been focusing on nurturing my skin, and it's made such a difference in how my makeup looks and feels. Let's dive into the nitty-gritty of my routine, shall we? I'll break it down into morning and evening routines, so you can see exactly what I do to keep my skin glowing and happy. We will discuss every part of the skincare routine, so stay tune!
Morning Routine: Starting the Day Fresh
My morning skincare routine is all about waking up my skin and prepping it for the day ahead. It's quick, simple, and sets the stage for a flawless makeup application. First things first, I cleanse my face with a gentle cleanser. I've been loving the CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser lately. It's super gentle, doesn't strip my skin of its natural oils, and leaves it feeling clean and refreshed. I cannot emphasize enough how vital of gentle cleanser, especially if you have sensitive skin like mine. Harsh cleansers can irritate your skin and make it prone to breakouts. After cleansing, I pat my face dry with a soft towel – no rubbing! Rubbing can cause irritation and even wrinkles in the long run. I will suggest using a microfiber towel because it is super gentle for the skin.
Next up is toner. I've been using the Thayers Witch Hazel Toner for years, and it's a staple in my routine. It helps balance my skin's pH levels, minimizes the appearance of pores, and feels so soothing. Some people skip toner, but I find it makes a huge difference in the overall clarity and texture of my skin. Guys, toners are not just for removing leftover makeup or dirt – they're actually packed with beneficial ingredients that can do wonders for your skin! After the toner, it's serum time! Serums are where the magic happens. I use a vitamin C serum in the morning to help brighten my skin and protect it from environmental damage. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can help fade dark spots, even out skin tone, and boost collagen production. I've been using the Timeless Skin Care Vitamin C Serum, and it's been amazing. Serums are lighter consistency than moisturizers, so they penetrate the skin more deeply. Think of them as a supercharged boost of goodness for your skin!
Finally, I finish off my morning routine with a moisturizer and sunscreen. Moisturizer is crucial for keeping my skin hydrated throughout the day. I use a lightweight moisturizer that won't clog my pores. I really like the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel. It's super hydrating but feels weightless on the skin. And last but definitely not least, sunscreen! Sunscreen is the most important step in any skincare routine. It protects your skin from harmful UV rays, which can cause premature aging, sun damage, and even skin cancer. I use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. I've been loving the EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46. It's lightweight, doesn't leave a white cast, and works well under makeup. Don't skimp on the sunscreen, guys – your future self will thank you!
Evening Routine: Repair and Rejuvenate
My evening skincare routine is all about repairing and rejuvenating my skin while I sleep. It's a bit more involved than my morning routine, but it's so worth it for healthy, glowing skin. I always start with removing my makeup. I use a makeup remover wipe or cleansing balm to gently dissolve my makeup. I'm currently obsessed with the Banila Co Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm. It melts away makeup like a dream and leaves my skin feeling soft and hydrated. Never ever go to bed with makeup on! It can clog your pores, cause breakouts, and lead to premature aging. Your skin needs to breathe and repair itself overnight, so removing makeup is non-negotiable.
After removing my makeup, I double cleanse. Double cleansing is a game-changer for my skin. It involves using two cleansers – an oil-based cleanser followed by a water-based cleanser. The oil-based cleanser helps to remove makeup, sunscreen, and excess sebum, while the water-based cleanser cleanses away any remaining impurities. I use the Kose Softymo Speedy Cleansing Oil as my first cleanser and then follow up with my CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser. Double cleansing ensures that your skin is thoroughly clean and ready for the rest of your skincare routine. If you're not double cleansing yet, you're missing out!
Next, I use an exfoliating toner. Exfoliation is key for removing dead skin cells and revealing brighter, smoother skin. I use a chemical exfoliant, such as an AHA or BHA, a couple of times a week. I've been using the Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant, and it's been amazing for clearing up my pores and preventing breakouts. Exfoliating too often can irritate your skin, so start slow and see how your skin reacts. Less is more when it comes to exfoliation! After exfoliating, I apply a serum. In the evening, I use a retinol serum to help reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots. Retinol is a powerful ingredient that can transform your skin, but it can also be irritating, so it's important to start slowly and use it only a few times a week. I've been using the The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion, and it's been gentle yet effective. Retinol is best used at night because it can make your skin more sensitive to the sun.
Finally, I finish off my evening routine with a moisturizer and an eye cream. I use a richer moisturizer in the evening to deeply hydrate my skin while I sleep. I've been loving the La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer. It's super hydrating and helps to repair my skin barrier. And I always apply an eye cream to help reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and dark circles. I've been using the Kiehl's Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado, and it's so nourishing and hydrating for the delicate skin around my eyes. Don't forget about your eyes, guys – they're often the first place to show signs of aging!
Makeup Looks I've Been Loving: From Everyday Glam to Special Occasions
Now that we've covered my skincare routine, let's talk makeup! I've been experimenting with some new looks lately, and I'm excited to share them with you. Whether it's a natural, everyday look or a glam look for a special occasion, makeup is all about having fun and expressing yourself. Let's dive into some of my favorite looks and the products I've been using to create them. This is my favorite part because I can express myself to the world with some colors!
Everyday Glam: Effortless and Chic
For my everyday makeup look, I like to keep things simple, fresh, and glowing. It's all about enhancing my natural features without looking too overdone. I start with a lightweight foundation or tinted moisturizer to even out my skin tone. I've been loving the IT Cosmetics CC+ Cream. It provides great coverage without feeling heavy, and it has SPF 50, which is a bonus! Remember, guys, sunscreen is important even when you're wearing makeup! I apply the CC cream with a damp beauty sponge for a seamless finish. A damp beauty sponge helps to blend the product into the skin and create a natural-looking finish.
Next, I conceal any dark circles or blemishes with a creamy concealer. I've been using the NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer. It's super blendable, provides great coverage, and doesn't crease. I apply it under my eyes, around my nose, and on any blemishes, and then blend it out with my finger or a small concealer brush. A little concealer can go a long way, so start with a small amount and build up if needed. After concealer, I set my under-eye area with a translucent powder to prevent creasing. I use the Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder. It's finely milled and sets my makeup without looking cakey. I apply it with a small powder brush and gently press it into my skin.
For my eyes, I like to keep things simple and natural for everyday. I usually just apply a neutral eyeshadow to my lid and blend it out. I've been using the Urban Decay Naked2 Basics Palette. It has a great range of matte neutral shades that are perfect for everyday wear. I apply a light shade all over my lid and then blend a slightly darker shade into my crease for definition. For mascara, I use a volumizing mascara to make my lashes look fuller and longer. I've been loving the Benefit Cosmetics They're Real! Mascara. It doesn't clump or smudge, and it makes my lashes look amazing. Two coats of mascara are my secret weapon for making my eyes look more awake and defined.
For my cheeks, I apply a touch of blush to add some color and warmth to my face. I've been using the NARS Blush in Orgasm. It's a classic for a reason – it's universally flattering and gives my cheeks a natural-looking flush. I smile when I apply blush to find the apples of my cheeks, and then blend it upwards towards my temples. And finally, for my lips, I usually just apply a tinted lip balm or a nude lipstick. I've been loving the Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment. It's super hydrating and gives my lips a hint of color. A natural lip color is the perfect finishing touch for an everyday makeup look.
Special Occasion Glam: Turn Up the Volume
When it comes to special occasions, I love to turn up the glam and create a more dramatic makeup look. It's the perfect time to experiment with bolder colors, shimmers, and false lashes! I start with a primer to create a smooth base for my foundation. I've been using the Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer. It helps my makeup last longer and creates a flawless canvas. A good primer is essential for special occasion makeup because you want your makeup to look perfect all night long.
For foundation, I use a full-coverage foundation to create a flawless complexion. I've been loving the Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation. It provides amazing coverage, lasts all day, and doesn't transfer. I apply it with a foundation brush and blend it out thoroughly. For concealer, I use the same concealer as my everyday look, the NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer, but I apply a bit more to create a brighter under-eye area. A bright under-eye area can make you look more awake and radiant.
For my eyes, I love to create a smoky eye for special occasions. I start by applying an eyeshadow primer to my lids to prevent creasing and make my eyeshadow last longer. I've been using the Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion. Then, I use a combination of dark and shimmery eyeshadows to create a smoky effect. I've been using the Huda Beauty Rose Gold Palette. It has a great range of shades for creating smoky eyes. I start by applying a dark shade to my outer corner and crease, and then blend it inwards. Then, I apply a shimmery shade to my lid and blend the edges. Blending is key for creating a seamless smoky eye.
I also love to use eyeliner for special occasions. I usually use a black liquid eyeliner to create a winged liner. I've been using the Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner. It's super precise and doesn't smudge. Practice makes perfect when it comes to winged liner, so don't get discouraged if you don't get it right the first time. And of course, no special occasion makeup look is complete without false lashes! False lashes can instantly elevate your look and make your eyes look bigger and more glamorous. I've been using the Ardell Wispies Lashes. They're natural-looking but still add a lot of drama. Apply a thin line of lash glue to the lash band, wait for it to get tacky, and then apply the lashes as close to your natural lash line as possible. For my cheeks, I use a combination of blush, bronzer, and highlighter to create a sculpted look. I use a contour shade to define my cheekbones and jawline, a blush to add color, and a highlighter to add a glow to my cheekbones, brow bone, and cupid's bow. I've been using the Anastasia Beverly Hills Contour Kit and the Becca Cosmetics Shimmering Skin Perfector in Champagne Pop. The key to a sculpted look is blending, blending, blending!
Finally, for my lips, I love to wear a bold lipstick for special occasions. I've been loving the MAC Lipstick in Ruby Woo. It's a classic red lipstick that looks amazing on everyone. I apply lip liner first to define my lips and make my lipstick last longer. A bold lip is the perfect statement for a special occasion look.
My Latest Beauty Creation: DIY Face Mask for Glowing Skin
Okay, guys, now for the moment you've all been waiting for – my latest beauty creation! I've been experimenting in my kitchen, whipping up a DIY face mask that's seriously a game-changer for glowing skin. I'm all about natural ingredients, and this mask is packed with them. It's super easy to make, and the results are amazing. You will love this recipe. So, what's the magic ingredient? Turmeric! Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant that can help brighten your skin, reduce inflammation, and even fight acne. It's truly a skincare superhero!
The Recipe: Turmeric Honey Face Mask
Here's what you'll need:
- 1 tablespoon of turmeric powder
- 1 tablespoon of raw honey
- 1/2 teaspoon of milk or yogurt (optional, for extra hydration)
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, combine the turmeric powder, raw honey, and milk or yogurt (if using). Stir until you have a smooth paste.
- Apply the mask to clean, dry skin, avoiding the eye area.
- Leave the mask on for 10-15 minutes.
- Rinse off with warm water and pat your skin dry.
- Follow up with your favorite moisturizer.
The turmeric in this mask helps to brighten your skin and reduce inflammation, while the honey is a natural humectant, meaning it helps to draw moisture into your skin. The milk or yogurt adds extra hydration and can also help to soothe irritated skin. I've been using this mask once a week, and it's made such a difference in the brightness and clarity of my skin. My skin feels softer, smoother, and more radiant after using it.
A word of caution: turmeric can stain your skin and clothing, so be careful when applying and rinsing off the mask. I recommend wearing an old t-shirt and using a dark-colored towel. If you do get any staining, don't panic! It will usually fade within a day or two. You can also try using a gentle exfoliant to help remove any staining. If you have sensitive skin, you may want to do a patch test before applying the mask to your entire face. Apply a small amount of the mask to a small area of your skin and wait 24 hours to see if you have any reaction.
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it, guys! My mini beauty journal and my latest creation. I hope you enjoyed reading about my skincare routine, makeup looks, and DIY face mask. Remember, beauty is all about having fun and expressing yourself. Don't be afraid to experiment with new products and techniques, and find what works best for you. And most importantly, be kind to your skin and treat it with love. Until next time, stay glowing!
