The 10 most useful cosmetics you will ever own PART 1

We don’t have unlimited budgets, and it would be a pity to spend all of your allowance or savings on tons of makeup and products that don’t do anything except clutter up your shelves. So here is a list (in no particular order) of the necessities – everything you will need to look gorgeous every day.

Note: This post is split in two because it is so long, and also because it took ages to make.

1.       Clear mascara

You can use it anytime to add subtle definition to your eyes, without going heavy with black. You can wear it at school, even if there’s a ban on makeup. It can also replace eyebrow gel for tidying brows. Many clear mascaras also contain minerals which work wonders on your lashes, making them thicker, longer and more luscious. Plus, there's never any clumps!

  

2.       Lip gloss

A girl’s best friend, useful for adding volume and dimension to your lips, and more moisturising than lipstick. It comes in many different shades, from bold cherry reds, to subtle nudes, to clear. Remember - bubblegum-pink lip gloss makes your teeth look whiter. If you don’t like lip gloss because it’s sticky, try to find a good brand non-sticky formula gloss. Try some of the flavoured ones as well – they are deliciously juicy. Save some for your lips though!

3.       Vaseline

Often called the “wonder cosmetic”, Vaseline is a definite must have for every girl. It can be used for everything:  soothing chapped lips, moisturising scaly elbows, tidying eyelashes, softening cuticles...the possibilities are endless! Slather on your eyelashes at night to make them thicker and generally healthier. Plus, there are so many types to choose from! There is the original blue, the green aloe vera, the pink rosy lips and the brand new brown cocoa butter, which smells gorgeous, just like chocolate. Pick your favourite and get addicted. 

Check out these cute chapstick ones as well!

4.       Hand cream

All year round, it’s  important to keep hands moisturised and cuticles soft. Use it twice a day – in the morning before leaving the house, and at night, just before you go to sleep. Your hands will thank you for it! My personal favourites are Dove, Vaseline and Cocoa Butter.

5.       Moisturiser

If you have dry skin, this is definitely a must. Use the more greasy, thick type at least once a day to prevent skin from flaking and looking lifeless.

It is super important for combination and oily skin  as well, because even though your skin is prone to breakouts, it also needs hydration. Use the more water-based, non-greasy type, so you don’t encourage build ups.


If you don't already know your skin type, take this quiz to find out.

There are so many moisturisers out there, for all types of skin, here's a few links:

• 100 best moisturisers
• 100 moisturisers for combination skin
• 100 moisturisers for dry skin
• 100 moisturisers for oily skin
• 100 moisturisers for sensitive skin
• 100 moisturisers on a budget

That's it for today, I'll be back soon with more beauty buys!

How to rock a natural make up look

We’re all natural beauties, of course, but sometimes we need to help Mother Nature out a little and hide some things, while highlighting others. This makeup look is perfect for a casual look, and school as well, as it doesn’t create that “plastered on” effect. The best thing about it is that it only takes 5 minutes, saving time for your busy schedule.

Wear it with pride.

You will need:

• Light foundation in your natural skin tone (liquid or powder, whichever you prefer)
• Concealer
• Clear mascara
• Eyelash curlers (optional)
• Eyebrow palette
• Tweezers
• Lip gloss (a natural colour, nude or pale pink/red) or lip balm
• White eye shadow (or a soft white eyeliner pencil) 

How to do it:

• Cleanse your face by washing it and pat drying with a clean towel.
• Apply the foundation evenly on your face and neck, but don’t plaster it on. You don’t want it to look like a mask.
• Apply concealer to any “danger zones” and under your eyes to get rid of bags and make your eyes look brighter.
• Pluck any stray hairs to even out your eyebrows, but don’t over pluck. Puny eyebrows are a big turn off. Keep them natural, and go along your natural arch.
• Use an eyebrow color a tone lighter than your hair, and then comb them through with clear mascara, to keep them neat, tidy and in place.
•  Apply some white eye shadow (or liner)  on your eyelids, but only as far as the crease. This makes your eyes brighter and more awake.
•  If you want, use eyelash curlers, but be careful not to rip them out or poke yourself in the eye! Put clear mascara on your lashes, going down first, and then up in a zig-zag motion.
•  Finally, add definition to your lips using lip gloss. This adds volume, as well as a 3D look. Remember, clear gloss makes your lips redder, while bubblegum-pink makes your teeth look whiter.

Ta-da! You just enhanced your natural beauty!

Here's two other natural make up looks you might want to try: