It's hard to believe it's that time of year. Several of you have already begun the new school year and some of you lucky ones still have a few days left of summer break.
I've gotten a few questions lately from teens or parents of teens in regard to what products and techniques are appropriate.
Thankfully I had women in my life to steer me in the right direction during my days of makeup exploration, but I think we all have a picture or two from those days that we look back at and think, "Yikes!" I'm going to narrow down for teens (and parents) what products to look for, all of which can be found at the drugstore so they won't break the bank! You're welcome, Mom and Dad.
I'm writing this with the 12-15 (ish) ages in mind, although all parents are different in determining what and when makeup is appropriate.
Teens, one thing to keep in mind is less is more! Trust me, you'll thank me later on in life.
1. BB Cream or Tinted Moisturizer
One thing you should wear with pride is your glowing, youthful skin! I see too many teens wearing heavy foundation and it looks so unnatural. When you see older ladies (even my age) caking on the foundation, we're trying to get your skin, believe it or not. Your skin will change the older you get, so embrace that beautiful face of yours!
If you have normal to dry skin, BB creams or tinted moisturizers are a great option for you because they give a very natural coverage and make your skin look glowy and healthy. You can apply them quickly with your fingers, so you don't need to buy other tools.
If you have oily skin, skip the bb cream and try a powder foundation like this one from NYX. A powder foundation will keep you from looking shiny but will still look natural on your skin. L'Oreal and Maybelline also make good powders that will give you natural coverage.
2. Concealer (only if you absolutely need it!)
I would only recommend concealer if you have acne-prone skin and deal with breakouts on a regular basis. You want to use a cream (not liquid) concealer the same shade as your skintone to conceal blemishes. Apply it ever so lightly with your fingertip to avoid getting too much buildup and looking cakey. If you're worried about it lasting all day, you can use your finger to dab powder on top of the concealer to lock it in to place.
This Essence Match 2 Cover Concealer can be found at Ulta for around $2.50, but I think this is the only shade. If you are much darker, you will need to find another option. I would suggest the L'Oreal concealer sticks (they look like crayons) because they have a great shade range for all skintones.
3. Eyeshadow
When it comes to eye makeup, the biggest mistake I tend to see with young girls is piling on the eyeliner. If I were you, I would avoid eyeliner altogether. It tends to be too dramatic (and we know you don't need anymore drama in your life!) for daytime, especially for school. These Infallible shadows by L'Oreal (
I talk in depth about this one here) are a great option because they're fuss free. You can slick some on your lid with your finger and be on your way. Try to avoid colors that are much darker than your skin. Stick with something that's going to look natural and more flattering.
4. Mascara
Mascara is the best way to frame your eyes without eyeliner. When I was in high school, I often wore only mascara and skipped out on everything else. (I liked my sleep... not much has changed.) Choose whatever mascara you like best. I love this one by Jordana (and it happens to be crazy affordable at $2.99!)....
you can watch my video on it here!
5. Your favorite lippy!
I would avoid lip products that you constantly have to reapply or lip stains that can often be too drying. You will love these Revlon Lip Butters, because they add the perfect amount of color to the lip and apply basically like a lip balm. I like them because you don't have to be too careful when applying them - you don't even need a mirror!
If you're more of a lip gloss girl, check out these
NYX butter glosses. You will love them as much as I do!
I wish you all the best of luck as you begin the new school year!
