Makeup Essentials Part 1

I've been getting questions about which makeup products I use, so it's time to do a post about some of my favorites that I can't live without. There are so many great products out there that I won't be able to just throw everything into one list, so I'm hoping to do a makeup essentials post every couple weeks. If you are on a budget like me, it's always tough to stay on top of makeup trends. I usually stick to my tried and true products and save where I can. Some things are definitely worth a splurge, and others not so much. I usually try to find the best, most affordable products and if I'm lucky, I'll even get some more expensive items as a gift ;)

1. Hoola by Benefit Bronzing Powder. This has been a favorite of mine for at least 10 years now. I'm a die hard fan and have turned on so many of my friends to this bronzer. When doing my makeup, I usually contour with different shades of foundation, but sometimes I add Hoola for an extra pop. However, there are lots of days I don't feel like dealing with all the foundation so it's perfect to contour without the fuss and still get that sun-kissed glow. Worth the splurge. here

2. Loreal Voluminous Mascara. I don't know about you, but I've tried so many different types of mascara, even expensive brands, and Voluminous mascara is still my favorite hands down. Mascara is just not where I want to spend lots of money. I go through it so much faster than other products, so when I have to keep replacing it, I want something affordable and reliable. Pictured above is the Blackest Black color, but my favorite is probably Carbon Black. here

3. Sonia Kashuk Brow Definer. One of my favorite brands right now is Sonia Kashuk from Target. It's slightly more expensive than your typical grocery store brands, but still very affordable and I've been really happy with the quality. Big brows are in, so I'll take any help I can get! The color I use pictured above is Haze. here

4. Trish McEvoy Essential Balm Color. These next two were gifts and I absolutely love them. It's very hard to buy someone a lip color because some colors don't work for everyone, but I think it's safe to say these are a good bet and they make the perfect nude together. This product is in the form of a pencil so you can line your lips and fill them in like a lipstick. The color is Gorgeous Pink. here

5. Trish McEvoy Beauty Booster SPF15 Lip Gloss. Not only is this a beautiful shade, but it offers you protection from the sun which is so important these days. One thing I love about Trish McEvoy products is that they are flavored, so I always have a minty taste in my mouth. The color is called Sexy Nude and it's one of my favorite nude colors that I've tried, very on trend right now! here