The drugstore makeup starter kit: 6 essentials
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You can build a complete everyday makeup look with a handful of affordable products. Here is a starter kit that covers the essentials without overspending.
- Primer: e.l.f. Power Grip Primer helps makeup stay in place all day.
- Base: Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless for oily skin, or e.l.f. Halo Glow for a sheer, glowy finish.
- Concealer: Maybelline Instant Age Rewind brightens under-eyes quickly.
- Mascara: Maybelline Sky High for long, lifted lashes.
- Lips: NYX Butter Gloss adds comfortable shine.
- Tools: a Real Techniques sponge or the Everyday Essentials brush set to blend it all.
A 5-minute everyday look
Apply primer on moisturized skin, blend a thin layer of foundation or Halo Glow with a damp sponge, dab concealer under the eyes and around the nose, curl your lashes and add mascara, then finish with gloss. That is it.
Shade-matching tips when buying online
- Use the brand's online shade finder.
- Check swatches on people with a similar skin tone and undertone.
- Keep the packaging until you are sure the shade works, in case you need to return it.