Susan Feldman is the co-founder of One Kings Lane and In the Groove, a style destination where she shares her age-defying outfits and shopping tips. Feldman is also our resident style expert here at Who What Wear, and she’s shared everything from the basics she packs for every trip to the style mistakes she won't repeat. Today, we’ve tapped her to discuss the simple makeup routine she's perfected.
What a difference six months makes. Before the pandemic, you couldn't catch me leaving the house without a full face of makeup on. And I do mean full face, from foundation to eyeliner to lipstick. The stay-at-home orders hit, and that was it—no more makeup for me, except moisturizer and sunscreen. But as time went on, I started feeling like I needed a little something.
As I get older, I've learned that when it comes to makeup (and pretty much everything), less is more. I have some makeup artists as friends, and they've helped me figure out what to do. I wanted a routine that gave me a natural look but was still easy and quick. These are the six products that let me achieve that "myself but just a little bit better" look, and I can do it all in less than 10 minutes thanks to a few multipurpose products.
My routine starts after cleansing, toning, moisturizing, and, of course, sunscreen. Keep reading to learn a step-by-step approach to my no-makeup makeup look for mature skin and shop the products I use.
Step 1: CC Cream
The first step to getting done quickly is using CC cream. Since it's a color-correcting cream, it evens out skin tone, and I like that it's lightweight and looks very natural—and it has sunscreen in it. This one has been a game changer for me.
When I'm looking for a little more polished look, like a really important Zoom call, I use BB cream instead. It works like a tinted moisturizer but with more coverage and has completely replaced my foundation. You just rub a little bit between your fingers to warm it up and rub it on your face. You can use a beauty blender, but I find I get better control with my fingers. I use Eborian products, but It Cosmetics makes a great one, too.
Step 2: Concealer
I use Stila's Correct & Perfect All-in-One Color Correcting Palette, and it has a lot of options. I mostly use it to neutralize dark circles and brighten the area around my cheeks and to make it look like I got a full, restful night of sleep even when I didn't.
Again, you can use a beauty blender, but I prefer my fingers. I dab it under my eye to help take away those dark rings and a little on my eyelid as a primer. Once I use the concealer, I lightly brush the brightening powder all over my lid.
Step 3: Eyebrows
It's amazing how big a difference a little attention to your eyebrows can make. So don't forget to give them a little TLC and always use an eyebrow pencil. I love the one by Kevyn Aucoin. It has a brush on one end and a pencil on the other. In a pinch, you can even use it for eyeliner. You just want to fill in your brows lightly. Remember, not too much.
One great trick I learned? Brushing up the hairs that grow down or sideways. It might look a little crazy, but you'll be able to see what needs filling in. Then, fill in the gaps with light brushstrokes—softer and wider will be the most flattering. Once you're done, just brush the eyebrows back into place.
Step 4: Mascara
Emphasizing your eyelashes will make your eyes pop. Once you do this, grab your mascara and wiggle it back and forth as you blink. You literally don't even have to move the wand. The wiggling and the blinking will ensure that your mascara goes on perfectly. Here's an insider tip: Take a skinny brush and a little bit of the mascara and gently apply this on the bottom of your lash line instead of a line on the top. The results are fast, easy, and amazing. There are so many great mascaras out there, but at the moment, I love the Chanel Inimitable Regular and Waterproof Mascaras.
Step 5: Bronzer
I'm new to using bronzers, but I've learned how great they can be for so many things. First, I apply a little to the crease of my eye using a back-and-forth motion like a windshield wiper. Make sure you blend it, or you can add more for a dramatic look. Next, I take a bronzer brush and lightly go over my cheekbone. Don't go any lower than the base of your cheekbone because it will pull your face down.
Step 6: Lipstick
This is the grand finale. I never knew there were so many things you could do with lipstick. I use it three different ways: first, patting a little on cheekbones for color instead of blush; then, a little bit more on the eyelids; and finally, the lips!
Voilà, you're done. And I guarantee you will look effortlessly gorgeous on your next Zoom call.
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