Back to basics Part Two: The Shopping List

Hi everyone!

I’m back with my second instalment of Back to Basics! Today I’ll be taking you through the beginner’s shopping list and the products that I would recommend picking up if you are just new to makeup. Of course everyone is different, so this is just a starting guide where you can gain a little inspiration and find the perfect products that work for you! Let’s get right into it!

Skin care: This is a really important step! If you’re skin isn’t nourished then no makeup, no matter how expensive, will sit quite right. You can find excellent products with great ingredients these days that won’t break the bank! There are a several products that are needed to make a complete skincare routine but a cleanser and moisturiser are the best products to start with. I’ll be sure to do a separate blog post soon all about great skincare that won’t break the bank!

Foundation and Concealer: These products are the ones to invest in! I think skin is the most important part of any makeup look, and when your skin looks great everything else just falls into place! I just haven’t found drugstore foundations and concealers that are as good as their high end counterparts. High end foundations and concealers come in an extensive range of finishes and shades, not to mention you can sample the products before you buy them too. So no matter what, you’ll be able to find your perfect match.

For dry skin:

For Oily Skin:

Powder: The rest of the products on this shopping list, you don’t have to spend a lot of money on. Of course there are some lovely luxury options but the drugstore makes some great ones too! If you want your makeup to last all day, setting it in place is kinda essential. If you have dry skin, you can still use powder! There are formulas that aren’t too mattifying and won’t dry your skin out, plus you don’t need too much to set your makeup either.

Blush: One beautiful blush is all you need to add colour back into your complexion and brighten up your whole look. There are some really amazing drugstore blushes in all kinds of shades and finishes. Creams/liquids are a great option for dry skin, they make your skin look glowy and fresh. Powders can work for all skin types, they come in a range of finishes from shimmery and radiant to a satiny matte plus they last all day too! If you go with a more radiant formula, your blush can double as a highlight too!

Bronzer: This one is optional, a bronzer is the easiest way to make it look you’ve got that lovely golden tanned look without being in the sun. For me personally, I prefer using blush to bring colour to my complexion but if you prefer that bronzy, sun-kissed look then a bronzer is definitely for you. Again, depending on your skin type there a creams for a more radiant finish or powders for a more matte finish.

Mascara: Mascara cannot be missed! One swipe of mascara really opens up your eyes and makes you look wide awake! Just a bit of lip balm and mascara and you look instantly put together. I really don’t see the point in spending lots of money on mascara, my favourite one (Essence’s Lash Princess) is only $7.00!

Lipstick: I LOVE lipstick! I am the lipstick Queen! I recommend buying two lipsticks if you’re just getting started: one nude shade and one bright shade. That way, you’re covered for any makeup look and all occasions! You don’t have to spend a bunch on lipsticks but, as a lipstick addict, I do love my luxury lipsticks!

Makeup Brushes: This is the last essential that I would recommend on the beginners shopping list, they’re not only necessary for makeup application but the right brushes can make your makeup look seamless! Real Techniques is an excellent brand and I’d recommend any of their products not just for a beginner but a makeup lover as well. The brushes are really good quality and they’re affordable as well! I should mention that this post isn’t sponsored by the brand (obviously) I just love their brushes!

So there you have it! The makeup beginner’s shopping list! I know this list may seem a little long but if you start out with one (or two) products from each category you will have a great core collection that will set you up for any occasion! Then, once you start getting a handle on the basics, you can expand your collection and look into creating more advanced looks!

Til’ next time!

Sophie xoxo

Disclaimer: The product photos are not my own, I have linked the source of the image in the caption below each photo.