makeup help!

April 23rd, 2008 at 9:02 am . Posted in shopping .

I need help, makeup help. You ladies are just the people to give me some too.

See the thing about me is, I hate makeup. I touch my face a lot, even though I know I shouldn’t. I’m scared I will poke or draw on my eyeball with eyeliner. Eye shadow? Forget it. I enjoy lipgloss, even when my hair sticks to it. My face is almost always red or blotchy around my cheeks.

Basically, I need something light, not heavy. It’s going to be summer in Chicago, I’ll admit it, I sweat. I perspire gracefully because I’m a girl, but it is still sweat. Shut up, you all do too. Sweaty face, no matter how gracefully it’s done, and makeup don’t mix.

I need something that looks natural and will cover up my redness. Don’t say Bare Minerals because it gets a big, huge FAIL from me. Messy and I felt like I didn’t get enough coverage. Right now I am using Philosophy’s Supernatural Airbrush Canvas. I still feel like I look red though. Or it could be entirely possible that I’m not doing it right! Should I give Bare Minerals another shot?

Mineral? Liquid? Pressed powder?

I fail at being a girl. Help me out here, ladies. What works best for you?

ETA: I have sensitive skin too!

54 Comments ( Reply )

  1. Maxie
    Apr 23, 2008 @ 9:07 am

    Right now I’m using Bare Minerals, but I only like to use it when I have a tan… cause when I’m all pale and nasty it doesn’t cover up much.

    I also really like MAC studio fix… in fact I like ALL mac makeup. Check it out :-)

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  2. Angela
    Apr 23, 2008 @ 9:08 am

    I can help you with a lot of makeup-y things, but not this one… I don’t wear any sort of base makeup. I have really dry skin, so I just use tinted moisturizer.

    Whatever you end up getting, look for something with SPF!

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  3. chris
    Apr 23, 2008 @ 9:11 am

    Liquid all the way girl!

    sorry.

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  4. JustinS
    Apr 23, 2008 @ 9:13 am

    I’d give you advice, but you’d end up looking like Ace Frehley.

    Not that it’s a bad look. People would know from a block away that you ROCK.

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  5. JSauce
    Apr 23, 2008 @ 9:19 am

    I use tinted moisturizer for the most part, because my skin is sensitive and I hate stuff on my face. But when I’m in need of some full coverage, I use Maybelline Pure Makeup – it’s 50% water, oil free, and feels just as light as moisturizer. Best of all, it doesn’t bug the crap out of my skin!

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  6. tiff
    Apr 23, 2008 @ 9:23 am

    mac studio fix because it’s a powder and sops up all your sweat while still making you look sexy and you don’t really need to reapply and the coverage is awesome.

    also do you have an Ulta by you? Or whatever Sephora. I don’t use much makeup in the summer beside mac studio fix, benefit bad gal mascara and a glimmery gloss, but otherwise I make them hook me up on the shadows and stuff.

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  7. Ashley
    Apr 23, 2008 @ 9:27 am

    I use Bare Minerals and I like it. But I’m really pale with a little splotchiness (?) all around. It gives me pretty good coverage. I have friends that use MAC, like other people are suggesting, so maybe you could try that?

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  8. brookem
    Apr 23, 2008 @ 9:28 am

    hmm, you know- what i have works and i like it. but, im a cvs girl, and have always done good with l’oreal, covergirl, etc. so, let me check what i got goin at home, and let you know. :)

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  9. rachel
    Apr 23, 2008 @ 9:32 am

    alright so. i’m all about the MAC studio fix as has been mentioned above MANY times. but i swear by clinique city block tinted moisturizer. i put it on all over, swipe on some blush and a bit of mascara and that’s it! also, it’s gonna sound really ridiculous, but i’m all about the bonne bell powder bronzer compact. if you get it in the tan shade, it’s amazing stuff. there’s no sparkle and just the right amount of color to give you a summery glow. :o )

    another thing that you could do is go to one of the MAC or Benefit or Bobbi brown makeup counters and ask for a consultation. tell them what you’re looking for (fast, easy, not to makeup-y) and they will hook you uppp.

    and don’t feel bad about not being into the whole make up thing, i wasn’t either until about a year ago, sad right? now? so. much. fun.

    good luck girlie! xoxox

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  10. Jessica
    Apr 23, 2008 @ 9:50 am

    I really like a Neutrogena Skin Enhancer which is a light foundation that has SPF which is SUPER important and provides good coverage. I also really like Physicians Formula highlighter which is very light and gives you a nice glow. I get tons of compliments on it. And it blends really well with variety of skin tones. E-mail me and I’m happy to help more. I love this stuff :)

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  11. Hope
    Apr 23, 2008 @ 9:55 am

    Bobbi Brown for any type of liquid foundation or tinted moisturizer or anything really. The have oil free products which feels really light on the skin. Perfect for sweaty summer days. Also what I usually do in the summer is take my usual liquid foundation and mix it up with my daily moisturizer on my hand and then apply it.

    Light coverage. Voila!

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  12. Dutchess of Kickball
    Apr 23, 2008 @ 10:06 am

    I really like Cover Girl Aquasmooth. Its great coverage and it doesn’t feel cakey. Well, it does dry out before I get to the bottom of the container, so at that point it does get a bit thick, but when it is in the correct state, it is great.

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  13. Lauren
    Apr 23, 2008 @ 10:07 am

    I have sensitive skin as well, and most makeup makes me break out or oily. Annoying, right? I’ve started using Bare Minerals and I actually really like it. It is expensive, but I haven’t felt oily and that makes me happy. I like mineral wear because of that. If you haven’t heard of the site, Eyes, Lips Face is a new(er) make up that’s pretty good! On their website, most of the stuff is only $1 which is awesome.

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  14. Arielle
    Apr 23, 2008 @ 10:08 am

    Maybelline Dream Matte Mousse is really light, VERY easy to apply and is great at just evening out your skin tone. Plus, you can buy it in CVS or any pharmacy and if you don’t end up liking it, at least you won’t have spent a ton of money on it. MAC products = expensive.

    I should also mention that I’ve successfully turned several of my friends on to it. It’s fantastic.

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  15. ANG*
    Apr 23, 2008 @ 10:08 am

    go to benefit (theres a location on halsted) – talk to them and explain your concerns and let them do some magic. they are a new love of mine! :)

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  16. Cris
    Apr 23, 2008 @ 10:10 am

    Please, I don’t sweat. I glisten. Try Mac Studio Fix or any kind of tinted moisturizer. Also, if you’re going to go with shadow, do a light brown/beige/creme brule (Mac Brule is awesome) and always use some UDPP (urban decay primer potion) because even if you’re glistening, it won’t rub off your eyeshadow. dig?

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  17. lfar
    Apr 23, 2008 @ 10:12 am

    Go to the body shop!

    Also, you don’t fail at a girl. Please don’t say that, even in jest. Not enjoying or being skilled at makeup doesn’t reduce your femininity!

    Body shop! Body shop! Body shop! It does wonders. And they teach you everything.

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  18. Kristen
    Apr 23, 2008 @ 10:16 am

    I use MAC Studio Tech (lots of coverage which I like) but I use my secret weapon Smashbox Primer underneath. I swear its perfection.

    Anyways.. That’s me. You don’t like lots of makeup. My BFF is like you and has light sensitive skin. She uses MAC Studio Fix.

    I don’t care for Bare Minerals myself – not enough coverage & messy. I couldn’t agree more.

    Ahhh.. yes and drugstore the Maybeline Mousse is a must try.

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  19. alexa
    Apr 23, 2008 @ 10:22 am

    this is my kind of post.

    i recommend using mac’s studio fix. it basically is a powder compact with foundation coverage and with out all the foundation mess.

    it is convenient enough for your purse and lasts forever.

    i have used it for years!

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  20. alas
    Apr 23, 2008 @ 10:24 am

    I like MAC studio fix. But I prefer MAC mineralize satinfinish spf 15 foundation. It’s a long name but I like it because it is light. You don’t feel like you have make-up on. Plus pick up on of their foundation brushes. They make it easy to apply liquid foundation but no one can tell you’re wearing it.

    Plus, if there is one by you, make them give you a free make-over. It’s always worth a shot to learn something new.

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  21. Michelle & the City
    Apr 23, 2008 @ 10:39 am

    right now i use a combination of liquid and pressed powder. i use two products from maybelline: liquid foundation and perfecting powder. the perfect combo in my opinion :)

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  22. chele
    Apr 23, 2008 @ 11:00 am

    I love anything bobbi brown, they specialize in making products that makes your skin look good.
    I always use lancome foundation they are good at the light naturalones, i apply with a foundation brush (from mac) then I dab some sheer powder over from shu umera. Shu is great for sensitive skin as well.

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  23. La
    Apr 23, 2008 @ 11:07 am

    You don’t want my advice because I’m a 100% Bare Minerals girl. I’m sorry. I just love it.

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  24. Glamorous152
    Apr 23, 2008 @ 11:08 am

    I recommend tinted moisturizer for foundation and if you’re wanting eyeliner- try Loreal’s eyeliner pen. It’s felt-tipped and works wonders! I swear by liquid liner because it’s not wax based like other eyeliners leaving a smudgy mess when (yes- when) it melts on your face. OR i opt for black eyeshadow and use a fine brush and put it on like eyeliner. Lipgloss- I love Rimmel’s Cosmic. It goes on light and has a great tint of color. Not long lasting- but great enough to apply a few times. or try Victorias Secret lipgloss- their Lip Rush is great. careful about some of their other ones. SUPER sticky.

    good luck!

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  25. katelin
    Apr 23, 2008 @ 12:00 pm

    I’m not a huge make up person either, but I do own some Cover Girl coverup which does work pretty well, even for my sensitive skin.

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  26. Joy @ Big Time Fancy
    Apr 23, 2008 @ 12:14 pm

    Stila Tinted Moisturizer is my godsend. And THEN I found a really awesome light Silta foundation that matches my crazy skin tone EXACTLY.

    Both of these are super light and don’t freak out my poor sensitive skin.

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  27. Laurie
    Apr 23, 2008 @ 12:53 pm

    I would hit up a MAC counter – they have tons of options and they have a new mineralize line that is getting rave reviews.

    I would also go for a tinted moisturizer (Physicians’ Formula has a new organics line with one and it’s awesome – and cheap!) However, with that you’ll need a veil or topcoat of some sort because it can bring on the shine factor.

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  28. Kari
    Apr 23, 2008 @ 12:58 pm

    I use the Revlon bare minerals. I really like it. It’s not oily or greasy and you can layer it up where you need it. Plus it’s not too expensive and ti’s available almost anywhere.

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  29. tia
    Apr 23, 2008 @ 1:48 pm

    i am, and always will be, a MAC girl.

    when most people think of MAC, they think of heavy makeup, but they actually have a couple very light liquid foundations and pressed powders.

    go into your nearest MAC store/counter and check it out. and tell them all of your issues. MAC people are awesome.

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  30. Jamie
    Apr 23, 2008 @ 2:17 pm

    dude, i second the MAC Studio Fix (for heavier coverage). i only use powdered foundation because i hate hate hate the way liquid foundation looks and feels on me. i also hate mineral based foundations because they are just so much damn WORK to apply. i’m lazy but i want to look good. what’s a girl to do?

    right now, i use a mint-colored concealer to hide my red spots. not the stick kind, but the kind that comes in a little pot and is dabbed on with fingers. after i blend it in, i put my powder foundation on, and I’m done. then again, if you have all-over redness, a green based liquid concealer might do well to camouflage before you apply foundation.

    good luck! keep us updated

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  31. Nilsa S.
    Apr 23, 2008 @ 2:32 pm

    I’m not one to offer makeup advice. But ELF is having a $1 sale on all their products. Might be worth trying some of them for such a low entry fee.

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  32. e.p.
    Apr 23, 2008 @ 2:35 pm

    The only real makeup foundation stuff I have used is Bare Minerals. While it IS messy, I’d say give it another shot because it rocks. And I was able to figure it out even though I had never really work any face makeup before.

    Now, if you needed help with mascera/eye makeup, etc., that would be my forte…

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  33. 1218blog
    Apr 23, 2008 @ 3:00 pm

    I wish I could help you. I hate makeup and never wear it. My skin is too sensitive. I would break out for sure. But good luck. I’m sure these ladies here have some great advice for you. Maybe I’ll pick up a little advice myself.

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  34. Erin
    Apr 23, 2008 @ 4:19 pm

    I have super sensitive skin. I just use a moisturizer and Bare Minerals. When I need more coverage, I mix the Bare Minerals in with my moisturizer and then put it on. Works great for me. Also, for redness, I use a green concealer from Physician’s Formula. Now I really feel the need for a Sephora trip!!!

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  35. Amanda
    Apr 23, 2008 @ 4:48 pm

    Agreed with everyone who suggested tinted moisturiser. It’s perfect for summer because it (generally) provides SPF15+, and will keep your skin nice and hydrated too!

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  36. Lauren
    Apr 23, 2008 @ 5:50 pm

    With Bare Minerals you really need the kabuki brush to get enough coverage.

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  37. Allie
    Apr 23, 2008 @ 6:26 pm

    Big Green Purse recommends Everyday Minerals — http://www.everydayminerals.com/ I haven’t tried it yet, but you can get samples for just the cost of shipping, apparently – - one of my readers told me that.

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  38. annie
    Apr 23, 2008 @ 7:33 pm

    I like Clinique City Block tinted moisturizer with SPF. It evens out blotchy areas while protecting them from the sun. I generally top it with a translucent powder where needed, and both can be reapplied during the day.

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  39. mandy
    Apr 23, 2008 @ 7:50 pm

    I have been wearing Laura Geller makeup for several years now and love it! I am slightly darker complected and could never find a make up to match my skintone. I now wear her Bronze and Brighten all the time. Its wonderful…..you might want to try the Balance and Brighten. Try it, you won’t be disappointed. I also used to wear Bare Minerals and dislike it! http://laurageller.com/home.cfm/pid/zoom/thsId/78/item/Balance%20&%20Brighten%20Compact.html

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  40. Um... Yum!
    Apr 23, 2008 @ 8:10 pm

    I touch my face a lot, too, so I’m bad at wearing make up but I still wear it because I like to. :o ) (I also have sensitive skin.) Oh, and I easily look like a whore if I put on more than just a tiny bit of make up on, so I never wear a lot.

    So from one minimalist sensitive skin girl to another, my favourite skin cover up comes from Physician’s Formula. It’s very nice, doesn’t irritate, and looks natural. They have stuff made to cover up redness (look for green make up), and you can dust on one of their many fabulous bronzers on top of that.

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  41. Amanda
    Apr 23, 2008 @ 8:45 pm

    I have really sensitive skin and some redness, and I hate to say it, but I swear by bare minerals. I started with just the foundation, but now it’s all I use. (Blush, eye shadow, eye liner…those little tubs have slowly taken over my make-up drawer.)

    Anyway, what I do to get great coverage is put on the Bare minerals foundation with the mini buki brush – it provides more coverage than the flawless face brush – right after I put on my amazing moisturizer (Cosmedicine Primary Care). The moisturizer makes the foundation go on more evenly and stay on all day, like a primer of sorts.

    Cosmedicine also has a tinted moisturizer that is not too expensive, light, and, if it’s anything like all their other products, fabulous.

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  42. slynnro
    Apr 23, 2008 @ 9:09 pm

    I posted all about my makeup today. And I have a super particular skin care routine if you are interested. My skin freaks out about everything. And I’ve heard mineral makeup can be really irritating for sensitive skin.

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  43. Vanessa
    Apr 23, 2008 @ 9:23 pm

    This is a great post because I can get answers too. I can never seem to get my foundation right. I have stopped using the liquid and recently started using the Nuetrogenia Minerals powder. You apply it with a sponge and so far it works well for me. I don’t know if others have tried it, but its good coverage, very light and doesn’t irritate skin. My skin is very sensitive too and so far so good!

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  44. distracted spunk
    Apr 23, 2008 @ 11:15 pm

    Smashbox, healthy foundation FX or something like that. It has SPF15, it covers up my zits when I get them, makes my skin look even, lasts frigging forever, and is perfect. I have super sensitive skin (I get irritated from changing clothes, that’s how sensitive I am), and it more or less sucks.

    But this helps. Seriously.

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  45. Holly
    Apr 24, 2008 @ 1:02 am

    Lol! If an ability to choose and apply makeup is what constitutes being a girl, I fail too, coz I hardly ever wear it, haha!

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  46. LindzML
    Apr 24, 2008 @ 7:38 am

    I use Neutrogena mineral sheers at my summer job (I’m an overnight camp counsleor, so I sweat all day), and it works wonderfully! Try the tiniest amount of mascara, blush (or bronzer) on the apples of your cheeks and top of your nose (makes you look sun-kissed), a natural colored lipstick (or gloss, Burt’s Bees tinted glosses are great), and you’ll be in business!

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  47. L
    Apr 24, 2008 @ 9:00 am

    I have sensitive skin as well as blotchy cheeks. I’ve found that Cover Girl has a liquid foundation that has an spf 10 mixed in, I forget the “name” of it… it comes in a pump bottle. Great coverage, doesn’t break my skin out.

    Nivea also has a face wash for sensitive, red, blotchy skin that works well. You can find it at CVS or any other drugstore.

    Hope this helps!

    XO,
    L

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  48. Rachel
    Apr 24, 2008 @ 11:53 am

    I don’t use much make-up either, so I’m not good with advice, but I have also found that Clinque is good, because it is good for sensitive skin. Mostly though I like Neutrogena. It is VERY light, and it covers well. I have no complaints about it so far, and I’ve been using it for six months or so.

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  49. Morgan
    Apr 24, 2008 @ 4:23 pm

    My friend was just raving about Maybelline’s Dream Matte Mousse Foundation… She used just a touch of it and it covered up EVERYTHING. Ama-za-zing.

    By the way, I just found your blog through my friend Stephanie (http://thosecorwins.com), and I love it! Way cute. :)

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  50. Patti
    Apr 29, 2008 @ 4:09 pm

    I, too, have sensitive skin and I used to have a ton of redness on my face and I couldn’t put anything on it. I tried everything (including really expensive moisturizer… I stupidly spent $300-$500 a month on tons of moisturizer and facial products and facials and crap like that… stupid, I know). But then my boyfriend told me to try the Cetaphil bar for sensitive, dry skin.

    Now, if you are thinking, I HATE Cetaphil because you tried the liquid Cetaphil and your face got super dry and it broke out, don’t despair (that is what happened to me). It probably wouldn’t hurt to try the bar ($2.48 is what I paid for it). My redness went away and I don’t really break out anymore.

    I know you were asking about makeup, but I don’t even wear base makeup anymore because I’m not red and my face isn’t oily looking anymore.

    Hope this helps!

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  51. katelin
    Oct 30, 2009 @ 7:41 pm

    I'm not a huge make up person either, but I do own some Cover Girl coverup which does work pretty well, even for my sensitive skin.

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