(Part 2) Reddit mentions: The best makeup brushes & tools

Youtube channels or pinteresting videos are an awesome starting point for techniques and honest product reviews.

My real suggestion if you have the money to spare is to go to a makeup artist and PAY for a lesson--not only can they recommend products which will work with your skin and work how YOU want them, but we can help you with application techniques and work with you to ensure you're good to go on your own..it's a one time (or more if you please) investment which is totally worth the money! :)

Somethings I love & would recommend to anyone:
-Pore Reducing Primer -- NYX Makes an awesome and inexpensive one which is comparable to other, more expensive products NYX Pore Filler Helps reduce appearance of enlarged pores
-A BB cream is a nice start for a light, yet buildable foundation and a good entry into using a foundation-esque product. Like I said, you can build up as much coverage as is needed! (I LOVE mac or Laura Mercier) MAC Prep + Prime BB Cream
-Blush, Bronzer and Contouring go a LONG way (I love NARS orgasm for blush for my skin tone--and NYX Taupe for contour--my bronzers..welll..I have an addiction!)
-A Beauty blender applicator is FANTASTIC for applying foundations flawlessly [beauty blender--but off brands are A-OK(http://www.amazon.com/Beautyblender-Ultimate-Makeup-Sponge-Applicator/dp/B000HRVC5I)
-Brushes.Brushes.Brushes. Now, I'm not saying that you have to run out and get professional style brushes--BUT they'll help blend everything together perfectly.

If a one on one makeup lesson isn't within your budget right now, I'd suggest perhaps a Sephora where you can try different products would be helpful--it's no cost, and you can FEEL different products within your budget!

1. Hard choice, but I THINK it'd be Maybelline. They have great makeup and great bargains. Or maybe E.L.F...

2.

Face: Maybelline Fit Me concealer. That stuff is. amaze. balls.

Cheek: It's weird, but the L'Oreal Fairest Nude Lipstick, because it creates the most beautiful, natural blush.

Lip: Revlon Lip Butter in Wild Watermelon, because it's beautimous.

3. Revlon Creme Eyeshadow. I have a quad, and it's so weird. Gunky, gross, and NEVER FREAKING DRIES. Well, I mean, you know, not necessarily dry, but y'know what I mean? That stuff stays about 2 seconds on my lids before sliding off, and I don't have oily lids :(

4. A lot of stuff from E.L.F. I mean, some of their stuff really is worth that $1 you spent on it, but I've had a good experience with most of their products. The one in particular I'm thinking of is their dollar eyelash curler. Maybe I don't love on my eyelashes enough, but I think an eyelash curler is an eyelash curler, and I'd rather buy a new lip product than one of those!

5. I think CoverGirl Quads are pretty great (:

6. Physician's Formula is sorta pricey for what it is.

7. I don't have any thing 'dupeable' because all I have is drugstore:(

8. I honestly don't know, just starting out in makeup, I do a lot of research on here and MUA before buying. Most of what I've bought so far seems pretty good (:

9. Oh God, so many come to mind...I think what I'd most like to try is the Maybelline Fit Me foundation, because the concealer was so freaking amazing!!

10. I don't know... true makeup, probably either this or this. Makeup accessories probably these or these.. But the thing I seriously need that is only makeup related for me is this, because I literally sit on a bucket to do my makeup. Wow, all of that makes me sound like a spoiled brat...Just for the record, I don't expect anyone to actually get them for me, they're just high up there on my WL (: Thank you so so much for the contest!!!

It sounds like you're in a similar place as I was a couple years ago, so let me just info dump the bits I've picked up.

This tutorial helped me a lot with blending eyeshadow. The other thing I did was look all over the internet for people who had the same kind of eyes as me, and then see what kind of looks they did, and how they placed their eyeshadow. But honestly, the best thing you can do is practice.

I would highly recommend picking up some kind of neutral eyeshadow palette: and buy JUST ONE. I know a ton of people spend lots of money on lots of palettes and that's perfectly fine, but using one palette for an extended period of time will give you a better idea of what you like. For example, I bought Naked Basics 1, and at first I loved it, because eyeshadow! Then I hated it, because I thought the shadows wouldn't blend. Then I bought proper brushes and practiced with new tips: suddenly, I loved the shadows again because they blended. So first (and second) impressions may not be correct (which is why it's important to practice skills first, before jumping in and buying huge hauls). I also figured out that cool-tones are not so great on me, by figuring out which shades in UD Basics 1 looked good on my skintone, and which ones washed me out. Some options: Too Faced Natural Eyes, UD Basics, Lorac Pro 1, KVD Shade and Light, UD Naked 1, Wet N Wild Comfort Zone.

Here's the brush set I'm using right now. I'm ridiculously in love, because they were so cheap, and so soft. Seriously, I would pay 5x this price for these brushes. They have a bit of a chemical smell when you recieve them, but it goes away if you wash it.

Some random tips that helped me: don't try to blend on top of primer. Set down some neutral wash of shadow all over the lid, like Wet n Wild Creme Brulee or UD Foxy, it'll set your primer, and you can blend on top of that. Only pick up small amounts of shadow at a time, if you stab your brush into black shadow and touch it onto your lid, no matter how much you blend you will end up with a black spot of eyeshadow. Work in small motions, be patient with your blending. It will get better with practice.

As for lip color, I recommend similar things. Try researching and buying drugstore lipsticks first, because they'll be cheaper and you can get a better sense of what you like before spending a lot more money. As a beginner in makeup, it's too easy to buy a hugeeee amount of things because this subreddit suggests you do, but buy only a couple things at a time, and don't be afraid to return if you don't like it.

Hopefully that helped a little, feel free to shoot me any questions if you have any!

You need some brushes! Real Techniques is a great brand to start with. They have some nice kits for eyes or face and great single brushes like the expert face brush and blush brush. EcoTools is another inexpensive brand for good quality brushes. Have you tried a lipstick before? Try the brand NYX. I'm around your age and I honestly used to think lipstick was for older ladies (sorry!), but I'm digging it now. Like others have said, primer, concealer, and color tattoos would be good items to add to your collection as well. Update us on what you end up choosing and happy birthday!

Summer Fun

edit: For the prize, if I do happen to win, you can surprise me. =) Thanks for hosting!

Does she use any skincare (not makeup, but lotions, etc) currently? Ideally we suggest things based on a person's skintype, current products, etc.

A good bet would be some sheet masks - a paper mask with a serum on it you use for 20-30 minutes - they come in a variety of flavors and are one-time use. Unfortunately, you're cutting it close and most of whats available in a timely matter from amazon will be Korean/Taiwanese (if she's picky about japanese stuff).

Some amazon options are:

• Etude House I Need You Sheets
  
• Dermal
  
• Tonymoly I'm real
  
• Pinkgo Girl - some of these are lace and quite cute
  
  Some Japanese mask options:
  
  
• LuLuLun Multipack Masks, other types too
  
• PureSa Premium - quite expensive
  
• Kose Vit C masks
  
• Hada Labo Gokujyun masks - this brand is quite popular!
  
• Kracie Brightening masks - I think this is a cheaper brand
  
  And if you search "My Beauty Diary" there's a LOT of other varieties of sheet mask available on amazon that are well loved.
  
  Also, feel free to join the IRC channel. We've helped wayward SO's pick out gifts in the past.

Hey there girl! I don't see any makeup answers yet in the comments, so I'll tackle that question.

Makeup Starter Kit

• Peter Thomas Roth CC Cream Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Complexion Corrector
  
  
• Bodyography Veil Foundation Primer in Clear
  
  
• Milani Baked Blush, Luminoso
  
  
• LA Girl HD Conceal High Definition Pro Concealer 13 Color Choices
  
  
• stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner
  
  
• Best Pro Eyeshadow Palette Makeup - Matte + Shimmer 16 Colors
  
  
• L'Oreal Paris Voluminous Million Lashes Mascara
  
  
• Dizao Organics: Mix of Six Organic Lip Colour Balms
  
  
• BS-MALL Premium Synthetic Bamboo Makeup Brushes Sets Plus 1 Piece Makeup Sponges
  
  You're going to want to make sure you get tones to go with your skin, but this should provide you with a pretty solid foundation (heh). You don't need to get all of it at once, as well. The complexion corrector is pretty optional, and the rest...well, it just depends on the look you want.
  
  As for your other questions:
  
  

1. My coming out process ended up moving much more rapidly than I expected and I was out to most all of my friends and some of my family within a couple of months of accepting that I was trans. Once I stopped being ashamed of it, it all just started to flow. The only serious coming out conversation I have left is with my dad, which I'm intentionally delaying because he's going through a lot right now and it will almost certainly result in our estrangement.
   
   
2. My therapist and my friends, absolutely without a doubt. Supportive friends make a huge difference. They let you see what life can be like, which gives you the hope you need to keep going.
   
   
3. I'm not sure what island you're on, but I did some searching and found the Rainbow Family 808, who in turn had the Lavender Clinic listed as a resource. They're based out of Honolulu, but if that doesn't work for you, I'd call the Rainbow Family directly and explain that you're trying to look for a gender therapist and wanted to know if they had any recommendations near where you live.
   
   Good luck! Feel free to comment or PM me if you have any questions.

Brushes:
I love love love these ones from Amazon. The quality is extremely good and comparable with expensive brushes. The variety is also absolutely perfect for a beginner. You get everything you need for an eye look and more.

Palette:
For beginners, I find either the Too Faced Chocolate Bar or the Sweet Peach palette to be good. The color selection is standard and the pigmentation is pretty good. What I think makes them best for beginners is their blendability. The pigmentation and formula is just right to make them super easy to blend without completely blending away the color.

Good guide. Especially the method of drying. ;-)

That said, I recommend against nail polish and nail polish remover; polish doesn't set as well as enamel paint, and thus, it won't last as long or look as nice. One factor to this is that enamel paint settles flat better than nail polish does - the latter tends to curve inward or bulge outward, depending on exactly how much there is, whereas enamel paint can be polished off relatively even to the gun surface. Here's a comparison, with nail polish on the left and enamel paint on the right, and here's the final product. Note that this method also works on plastic; I filled the etching of the Crimson Trace laser as well.

Instead, I recommend Testor's 1168 Flat White enamel paint, which can be found at most hobby supply and arts & crafts stores. I apply with a very thin brush or with toothpicks, depending on how fine the work needs to be. I'll stick the tip directly into the etching grooves so that I don't end up with bubbles. I try to keep the coat relatively thin, but just thick enough so that I can't quite see the etching through the first coat when I'm done. (More on the second coat shortly.) Let it dry for an hour with a fan on it. You can sometimes get away with less time, or use a hair dryer to speed up the process, but I've found less than an hour (if you don't use a hair dryer) leaves the paint too tacky and more comes off than I'd like.

To clean up the excess paint, don't use paint thinner - not even Testors. Paint thinner will, well, make the paint too thin. This makes it too easy to accidentally remove paint from the etching that you want to leave behind. Instead, I use Hoppe's No. 9 Bore Solvent. It works similarly to paint thinner but isn't quite as powerful, which means it doesn't thin the paint as much. It's also a useful gun cleaner, so it's handy to have around anyway. :-)

Use a combination of cotton rounds and makeup sponge wedges, both of which can be found in the make-up section in most grocery stores or pharmacies for a few bucks per bag. The rounds are good for broad strokes to wipe away larger amounts of excess paint, and the wedges are good for detail work or to gently swipe evenly over the etching without pressing loose cotton threads into the etching. I try to do as few wipes over the actual etching as possible - the more you wipe the etching, the greater the chance you remove paint from inside the etching. Don't press hard, either; just press enough to maintain contact; let the solvent do the work for you.

Let the paint dry for another hour, and then apply a second coat. Odds are good that you've accidentally removed too much paint in some parts of the etching, especially where it's thin or has sharp corners. Then let dry for an hour, remove the excess with Hoppe's again, and let dry overnight to fully cure.

This will probably take you around a total of 3 hours to do, but it's worth the extra time - it looks beautiful and will last forever. Obviously, you'll need more beer for this method, but OP says you can get a 30-pack of Miller Lite for $18. It may suck, but after 30 of them, you probably won't care.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Ecotools-Eye-Enhancing-Duo-Brush/dp/B00GNA9KKM

This set! they're pretty cheap but reeeally good. I use them for all of my eyemakeup now, including my eyebrows. The rounded flat brush is great for applying lid colour, the rounded brush is good for blending, slanted brush is perfect for eyebrows and crisper liner and the short stubby brush I told you about is good for putting colour in the crease as well as softly lining the eyes.

10/10 :) would recommend! They're available most countries I should think.

I have used at least 200 pairs combined of 1, 2, [3] (http://www.amazon.com/eyelash-Reusable-Eyelashes-Makeup-Cosmetic/dp/B00BTYOBLK/ref=sr_1_12?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1411619287&sr=1-12&keywords=eyelashes+false+10) and have at least 60 more in a box waiting! The first version is my most commonly used pair and the other two are for variety. I have been searching for a criss cross pair like the third with the lightness of the first, so have tried out a bunch of other randos on Amazon. I think the only terrible set were these drag babies

They take a little bit to get used, and you definitely need to trim. I prefer them for daily use because they are thinner, lighter, and work appropriate. I work in finance. No guilt or feeling bad for tossing after each use, but I have gotten a full 8 wears out of a pair when I was in lashless land once. Stacking is also great.

I definitely believe that Ardell, Red Cherry, MAC, etc are stronger, and fuller looking, but that's not what I want. I like the super lightweight feel and the natural wispy look, and the guilt free removal. Order away! Although, shipping is not super regular, I just order every so often when I get down to like, 30 pairs, and I know I'll have more on the way.

and if they suck its $2 down the drain. or you can do what I did and put them on my dog. He gets so confused about glamour but its glorious.

Oh wow this contest is such a great idea! Since my name is pretty easy to do, I decided to make it fun and over the top.

I feel so pretty!

My item

HI VERONICA I LOVE YOU! THANKS FOR HOSTING SUCH AN AWESOME CONTEST :D

Thank you for hosting!

I recently found a gem of a brush, by a brand that I don't hear mentioned, ever. It's the Beauty Junkees Flat Top Kabuki ! I've never tried Sigma, but I've seen in reviews that they're comparable. Let me tell you, it is incredible! Right now, I use it for powder/buffing purposes, and soon I will use it for mineral makeup.

Also, the Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge is SO GOOD for liquid foundation. I adore the shape of it. The pointy tip helps with the application of concealer. I can't gush enough.

And now I'm starting to sound like an infomercial. Brushie brushie (:

I mean a brush brush, a beauty blender is a specially shaped sponge.

I dont consider it a type of brush. I'm not personally a fan of the beauty blenders and brushes work very well for me but you may want to try both. This is the exact brush that I use and this is where I purchased it.. It is very soft, easy to clean, and I haven't noticed anything wonky going on with the fibers. I think it was absolutely worth the money, and it was relatively cheap compared to a lot of high end brushes, while not having a cheap quality about it. It's a good brush. If you are looking for some reaaally nice brushes, look at Real Techniques. I bought that one because I read a lot of good reviews about it and a lot of people compared it to Real Techniques which has an excellent reputation

I hope this doesn't seem like a cop-out, but I don't know what it is yet! I have Chocolate Bar and am planning on getting a new palette SOON, either Lorac Pro or Pro 2 (or something else, I'm not 100% sure yet). So whatever my fall color will be will be on my new palette, whatever that is.

Speaking of, I have my eye on pretty much all of the Sleek palettes, though I don't know how work appropriate they would be...but I especially like these:

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0086ULJF6/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=2V9SZMY5X7JQJ&coliid=I13PSYTKUAUWBI&psc=1

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00957MDDQ/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=2V9SZMY5X7JQJ&coliid=I2I7BINRY03294&psc=1

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00GXFZHD6/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pd_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=2V9SZMY5X7JQJ&coliid=I2GNP4G62S2RNF

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00GXFZH6S/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=2V9SZMY5X7JQJ&coliid=I1Z15GRBNODEVO

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FWVKJK8/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pd_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=2V9SZMY5X7JQJ&coliid=IO0N4AJYKQUHE&psc=1

Okay, that's several things and not all palettes but I'd be tickled to get any of them.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!! I think it's neat we found each other on here again; I just hope I can be more active these days.

Cool sounds like you got it down! So maybe you can add like a BB cream, blush, and tinted balm to your routine. And possibly also get into natural eyeshadows with a light color on your lid and under your brow then a darker color blended into the crease. I highly recommend one of these Lamora Nudes palettes, because you get 16 great shadows for $12. They are super easy to use, blend well, and have good pigment with little fallout. Very good for a beginner. And for $9 you can get a complete eyeshadow brush set, so you would have a variety of tools.

Do you have $50 to blow? I'd say go to Sephora, schedule a makeover (you have to spend $50 on product), and then ask them to do a simple, easy to learn style that could be used every day and makes you look feminine/female. Overall, you can get the same look with drug store stuff as with more expensive brands. The difference is usually the durability (cheap mascara dries up & flakes off after 5 hours, say) and how easy it is to put on.

My basics: foundation (ask a store employee for color, usually it should match the skin tone of your neck/chest/underarm), concealer for beard shadow (a little more pinkish/orangish than usual if you're covering up dark beard shadow on a light-skinned face), mascara, lipstick. Also, usually bronzer. (Brush it on beneath the cheekbone. Start at the ear, and hook it under the cheekbone. Don't extend past horizontally past where your eye starts. Adds some color & the darkness in that area makes it look like you have real cheekbones, which many of us don't.)

Hygiene: Do NOT use the floor samples at any makeup store. Makeup can carry bacteria. You don't want other people's skin diseases. A store employee doing a makeover or showing you a sample should clean it with an alcohol spray before using. Ask about this. Also, once a month or so clean your brushes with alcohol (ELF makes a cheap alcohol spray that isn't as rough as plain isopropyl rubbing alcohol, though that works too.

Removal: Makeup removal wipes are a rip-off, though I do have one pack for my gym locker. I prefer a simple oil, as makeup is generally oil-soluble. Something relatively cheap, like cold-pressed almond oil, will wipe makeup right off and be much healthier than fancy makeup removers. (Except mascara, which is usually water soluble.) Take off makeup, towel (or old t-shirt) off the oil, wash face with water, and apply moisturizer before bed. Sleeping in makeup isn't great for your skin.

Brushes: I'd look for a brush set on Amazon. Makeup in stores can be a good deal. Brushes are always a rip off in stores. I prefer animal hair, and bought this set:

https://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=9SIA1PC5MA5316

Cheaper:

https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B001JKTTVQ/ref=twister_B00MPAVC82?_encoding=UTF8&th=1

Or this if you're going to splurge:

https://smile.amazon.com/SHANY-Professional-Brush-Leather-Look-Badger/dp/B002DOSSYG/ref=sr_1_3_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1526426788&sr=8-3&keywords=makeup+brush+set+animal+hair

There are a variety of all-synthetic brushes if you don't want something that uses animal hair though, like this:

https://smile.amazon.com/ZOREYA-Brushes-Leather-Contour-EyeShadow/dp/B01N9RJ4D7/ref=sr_1_6_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1526426788&sr=8-6&keywords=makeup+brush+set+animal+hair

For liquid foundation: some cheap teardrop sponges. For primer, silicone applicators. Like so:

https://smile.amazon.com/Cosmetic-Silicone-Blending-iFanze-Concealer/dp/B071NDHJ6Y/ref=sr_1_6_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1526427802&sr=1-6&keywords=beauty+sponge+%2B+silicon

SPF: the sun is your enemy. Always wear SPF anywhere that will be exposed to the sun.

What basics do I actually use: Sephora-brand liquid foundation (lotion I put on before makeup is SPF), sephora lipstick (SPF), Sephora primer. (Which I use only if I want my makeup to last 10+ hours - makeup is absorbed into the skin. Sephora filling primer is kind of like vaseline-light and will prevent that. Also, ever so slightly reduces wrinkles - not by much.) Sephora concealer too, but they canceled my favorite shade. Dunno what I'll go with when I run out.

Ulta bronzer. Simple, cheap.

Mascara is covergirl (gym bag) or Urban Decay (expensive, but I like it).

I also have a variety of other lipsticks, eye shadows that I got as a gift from friends (yay) or Ulta promotional items. I usually don't bother with eye liner or eye shadow (I prefer light eye shadows, NOT smokey or dark eye shadows, as trans women already tend to have more shadow from deeper-set eyes). Once in a LONG while I play with contouring, blush, highlighters, but I don't bother usually. Heck, many days I'll just put on some concealer on my upper lip and call it good now that laser means I don't have beard shadow most places.

I probably spent about $200 in my first 4 months of makeup. Then about $20 once every three months since then.

I haven’t read any reviews on the KVD lash liner and personally I don’t know anyone who uses it so I can’t say whether it’s good or not.
The products I like to use:
L’Oréal
maybelline
urban decay waterline
And brushes I prefer:
real techniques silicon liner brush This one helps me push gel into my lashes easier to fill in gaps.
sigma e10
sigma e06 for easier winged liner in my hooded eyes.
And for the “stamping” I use a flat japonesque brush that they apparently no longer make as it is about 10 years old BUT sigma makes quite similar that are on sale rn that are described as “tightline and waterline brushes.”
sigma e17
sigma e16

To REALLY get in between the lashes place your ring finger (don’t push too hard!!) on your eyelid right above the lashline of where you’ll be placing the product and lift up a little bit. Tilt your head back so that you’re looking downward to the mirror a little bit. That will keep you from blinking/tickling ish as well as spread the lashes so you can work the product into the gaps easier. It also helps keep that part of your eye from getting wet as it will pull it away from your eyeball a little bit. If you get teary, you can squint your lower eye a bit and it should force the tears out so you can keep going once you’ve let them fall from the corners. Do this all before the rest of your shadow. Allow yourself to blink if you must and you can dab off excess moisture on your upper waterline and lashline with a clean finger.

If you use pencil you can use a blow dryer on the tip for a few seconds (not too long! )to warm it up and make it glide easier and be more malleable.

Again, there are many techniques I’m sure that are easier that other people use, this is just what works for me❤️

Okay so there's lots of places you can get things, but with some of amazon you might not get things in time so keep your eyes peeled, I'm linking random ones for you. It'd be easier to build your own basket instead of trying to find one. What I would suggest is:

-dotting tools like this

-brushes for art/cleanup like this

-clear stamper/scraper like this

-some stamping plates like this

-liquid latex (so her fingers don't get messy when doing different nail art styles) like this

-makeup sponges (those triangles, for gradients) like this

-striping tape like this

-good base coat (people really like nail envy by OPI and ORLY bonder) OPI ORLY

-good top coat (Seche vite is great) like this


I didn't pay much attention to the prices but a lot of those tools can be purchased fairly cheap, the most expensive things are the polishes and some stamping plates (some are very cheap and can be not so good, some are more expensive but are more likely to work well)

If you need more help let me know!

I have a few tricks to keep the curl in my super-straight lashes:

• use waterproof mascara
  
  
• Use a really good curler like Shu Uemura's or Shiseido's before putting on the mascara. Make sure you keep the curler clamped down for at least 5 seconds
  
  
• apply waterproof liquid eyeliner, clear mascara, or a lash gel (I like Ardell's) to your lashes before you curl them. These products act just like hair gel by giving your lashes some 'grip' and making them easier to shape.
  
  
• use a heated eyelash curler after you put on your mascara. I prefer wand-type heated lash curlers like Panasonic's. You hold the heated portion to your lashes while pushing them up. This sets the curl so that it will last all day.
  
  Just be sure to use a wetter, waterproof formula (Maybelline's are ideal) since drier, creamier formulas tend to just flake and melt off when you use a heated curler on them. The wetter formulas will dry harder (kinda like how gel will dry if you hit it with a hairdryer).
  
  You can also use a heated spoon or your finger to do the same thing if you don't want to buy a separate device (though they are pretty cheap).

I've had that happen from a random foundation brush I got at TJ Maxx! My nose started breaking out and peeling and itching; it's like it was exfoliating my skin and I was maybe also allergic to it. Bad times.

Like someone else said, Elf brushes are great! I also LIVE for the basic EcoTools duo and this Wet n Wild blending brush. I can do pretty much all my eye looks with just those three brushes. I've also got a couple from Sonia Kashuk (which I think is Target-exclusive, so hopefully you're in the US) that are quite nice. And, like others have said, Real Techniques is really nice too! I highly recommend their face brushes and their blending sponge. (I do NOT recommend the EcoTools sponge. I've never hated a sponge more.)

You don't have to spend a ton! You can get a really great set of brushes, curated by you for your own needs, just in the drugstore/Target.

I almost feel obligated to ask for pictures as this is reddit, however seeing as we are all gentlemen in this subreddit I will abstain.

I see from one of your responses that you shave against the grain. This is very common with most women as it produces a closer shave. You can try to shave with the grain by going top to bottom but this will not produce a closer shave. Based on your responses, I think that what you need to do is focus on the lubrication aspect of shaving to make sure that the razor is not tearing up your skin. The OLAY soap you are using is more than not likely providing your skin with enough protection.

I would advise treating yourself to a nice brush to use to build a thick lather for shaving. This brush is a good choice as it is synthetic and will dry out faster if left in the shower. I also highly recommend Lucky Tiger shave cream, as it is what my girlfriend uses on her legs and bikini area. It can be used with or without a brush.

This subreddit is fond of using safety razors, however with having to shave your legs and bikini area every day I do not see how that would be practical from a time consumption point of view. If cost is not a factor I would advise using a fresh Gillette Mach III cartridge with every shave, however there are other cartridge options that provide as good as a shave for a fraction of the price such as the Gillette Trac II or Gillette Guard.

Whatever razor / soap / brush combo you end up using, you are going to want to make sure that your soap to water ration is correct to provide proper lubrication for your shave. You are looking to get a consistency that it similar in thickness to whipped cream.

Finally a disclaimer about shaving your bikini area with new products, try a small dab of the product at first. Some of the products on this subreddit were formulated to be used on a man's beard and may burn like hell when coming into contact with your vaginal lips.

I'm so sorry OP! Maybe in the future try an open heated curler? They look a little scary, but I find them to be really pleasant feeling and the curl is great. Can't rip hairs out if they're not clamped!

https://smile.amazon.com/Panasonic-ES2351AC-Heated-Eyelash-Curler/dp/B0009DT39W?sa-no-redirect=1

That's the one I have and I love it! I actually got it because the last post I saw like yours made me too afraid to use my clamp curler

Eesh!

Yeah I definitely prefer curlers that have rounded silicone pads that have a little give and cushioning to them rather than the cheaper ones that have foam or just hard plastic.

Another option is a heated curler like the Panasonic Curling Wand (http://amzn.com/B0009DT39W) which doesn't clamp down at all, you just hold it up and under your freshly mascara'd lashes (while they're still wet) and it helps them dry with some lift to the edges. It doesn't provide the same sort of curl as a traditional curler but definitely more than just mascara on its own. Just a thought, can you tell I'm passionate about eyelash curlers? ;) Good luck!

Everyone loves EOS
Babylips
Awesome lipstick

Cute tweezers
NYC eyebrow kit
Blush & contour pallete
Classic mascara
Cheap beauty blender
Gel eyeliner

& Last but not least; if you want to get her something a little more expensive that I'm sure she'd love, I'd recommend:
This or this

Thanks for the contest!

Headcovers.com usually has it. http://www.headcovers.com/12867/secure-hold-eyelash-glue-and-eyebrow-adhesive-by-cardani/


The other awesome thing is cheap eyelashes from Amazon, like 10 pairs for $2 kind of cheap. I buy style 0, they look the most like natural. If you wear glasses and find that lashes usually hit your lenses, these are the perfect length. The trick to putting on eyelashes without having your own is to anchor the outer third of the strip first. You hold onto the center of the strip with tweezers, lay the outer corner first, then let go of the strip completely (they shouldn't move) and grab the inner corner with your tweezers and slowly guide the rest of the strip onto your eyelid. If this doesn't make sense, let me know I'll be happy to make a video for you. With the secure hold glue, make sure you let it get a little tacky before applying. About thirty seconds should do it.

10 Pairs Handmade Natural Soft False Eyelashes Fake Eye Lash https://www.amazon.com/dp/B006GKHIHQ/ref=cm_sw_r_udp_awd_2XB2tb1NJEWNSC69

I'm still organizing it, but my "kit" includes:

• DSLR Camera, prime lenses, camera bag
  
  
• Wooden yard stick (Scale bar and setting depth of field)
  
  
• IR remote control for camera (more steady camera triggering)
  
  
• Tripod on casters for faster shot setups
  
  
• Athlete's foot spray ($1 each at the dollar store)
  
  
• Developer's spray / Dulling spray
  
  
• temporary/removable rubberized paint (basecoat before spraying perm. paint) example
  
  
• Multi-colored textured spray paint Example
  
  
• Powder duster for applying inexpensive dust to objects. I haven't perfected this process. It's messy and the powder can change appearance between camera shots and spoil your entire photoshoot. I'd still like to figure out a better way because flour, baking soda, baby powder, and other dusty substances are far cheaper than spraypaint and athlete's foot spray.
  
  
• retractable kabuki brush for applying powder. I'm still experimenting with this, but it's a standard item included with the NextEngine 3D Scanner and they recommend applying talc powder to a lanolin base.
  
  
• Smart phone with lightmeter app, depth-of-field calculator app
  
  
• "Muslin" quick-clamps to drape a bedsheet behind object to diffuse lighting
  
  
• log book for optimal camera settings (dry erase board is faster for me)
  
  
• dry erase board for snapping a pic of my settings
  
  
• stickers for registration marks. I have only tried ordinary circular stickers without the computer generated encoded targets and have so far been disappointed with the results.
  
  There's probably more, but that's all I can think of for now.
  
  FUTURE ITEMS:
  
  
• $10 Lazy susan turntable from Ikea
  
  
• CNC controlled camera gantry for automated image capturing
  
  
• Field monitor for easier camera focusing. It's much harder on the small camera display.
  
  
• WiFi enabled camera or a WiFi enabled SD memory card
  
  
• A light tent - preferably with an entire setup with variable LED lighting from reddit user /u/Iontrades_
  
  https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/iontrades/lite-studio-all-in-one-photo-studio-and-3d-scanner
  
  
• Green screen backdrop for experimenting with the automask feature in 3DF Zephyr software. I may also experiment with other backdrop colors, threadcounts, and thicknesses to optimize contrast (between the workpiece and backdrop) and optimize lighting.
  
  
• Experimental mixture of white baby powder, black pepper, and acetone to make it stick together. I haven't tried this yet, but I'm hoping that the acetone would help it stick to the workpiece and quickly evaporate.

A cushion foundation is shaped like a portable powder compact (just a bit bulkier) but with a foundation-soaked sponge inside. Also a little puff and a mirror for portable application. Sephora's cushion foundation selection is pretty limited, but it's a K-beauty trend and if you do some reddit research you shouldn't have a problem finding information about what's available from other retailers (1, 2)

Coverage varies but the general expectation is that cushion foundations will have light/medium coverage at most. The most affordable and easily accessible option if you're in the US is probably L'oreal's cushion which you can find basically wherever L'oreal is sold.


The drawbacks to cushion foundations are that you get less product than in a traditional liquid foundation, so you run through them more quickly (this is the same as with stick foundations). There's usually an option to just buy a refill sponge when you run out (cheaper than getting a whole new compact).


Cushion foundations on the whole do have the stereotypically K-beauty "this comes in 5 shades of pale beige" problem. It's gotten a little better across the board but it's still hard to find deep-dark options.


If you can't find a formula and shade match that works for you, you can buy an empty cushion and fill it with a liquid foundation of your choosing. I've done this; I don't really wear foundation often enough to give it a ringing endorsement but I enjoyed it and thought it worked well.

[resubmitted, forgot to use np links. as usual.]

I agree with /u/IvyMonster. Amazon cracks down hard on any sellers that don't provide genuine products. I've honestly never really paid any attention to who I'm buying from if it's available with Prime, and if it's not then I'll check the sellers ratings. I have no recommendations for sellers, but I pretty optimistically don't worry about fakes.

Good brands to start with are the Etude House I Need you mask set, or Innisfree It's Real mask set. It gives you a nice variety at a decent price.

The Ecotools Bamboo Finishing Kabuki brush makes a great shaving brush, but a little small for leg shaving. The HIS brush is terrific for leg shaving, but too large for the face. A good compromise would be the HJM black synthetic from ConnaughtShaving.com (scroll down to see the HJM brushes): $25 shipped to the US, a wonderful brush, and would work for beard or leg. Somewhat cheaper: the Omega Pro 48 boar brush---read this beginner's guide to boar brushes, soak before each use, and it's a terrific brush.

For soap, I suggest a sampling of shaving soaps from HoneybeeSoaps.net: you can send various fragrances for them to try.

Thank you!!

I don't have like set brushes but I ordered a set off of amazon they're called qivange they work great for the price!

My one staple brush is the Sigma e40 I've had this brush for like 7 years and it's by far the most amazing blending brush I've ever had.

Ok, so I have been struggling with this for years. I tried so many things- different primers, foundations, tools, etc. I have about 10 different (and expensive) foundations, more primers than I can count, and nothing looked good. I am very acne prone, oily, huge pores, bad skin, and fair like you. I looked 110% like your photo. I recently went into Sephora in tears because I was just so frustrated and was given samples of these:

• Cover FX Mattifying Primer
  
• Tarte Amazonian Clay foundation
  
• Cover FX drops
  
  The lady spent a while showing me how to apply them and the results were really good. Apply the primer, let it dry, then blot the foundation in with a damp BB, then apply the drops as needed for coverage (giving everything time to dry in between applications). I use a setting powder (Too Faced Primed and Poreless powder rules) and a setting spray too. These products worked insanely well.
  
  Howwevverrrr it all changed when I bought this brush from Amazon. This thing changed my life. I stippled the foundation lightly and it looks absolutely amazing. I seriously teared up when I used it and had smooth application. You don't even need a lot of foundation with it. I don't sweep or smear it on, JUST stipple. I feel so much better about my appearance now.
  
  This is what worked for me, so it might not for you. It's worth a try though! I'm sorry I don't really have any photos to share. Good luck!!!

I use this foundation and love it! For reference, I have combo/oily skin.

I think it's important to make sure you skin is properly moisturized. If my skin is thirsty then it doesn't blend or sit as nicely. I use the Becca Backlit Primer all over my face then draw some streaks with the ABH foundation. Then I grab my brush, one of those fake Artis brushes, and I put a little bit of the primer on it as well. I guess using an oil would have the same effect, but I definitely don't feel as thought I need something as serious as an oil to blend. It blends like a dream this way! I think the important part is having a nice dense brush.

I think it's these: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KOW827M/ref=sr_ph?ie=UTF8&qid=1456889630&sr=1&keywords=bs-mall

I bought this set for myself a little while ago and I've been really enjoying it! The smaller brushes are especially awesome. I'm just starting out with makeup and wanted a full range of brushes to learn with and these are way better than I expected! I hope you have fun with them OP!

In the morning, I apply this Senka chemical sunscreen. Later in the day, I use the Skinfood Peach Cotton Pore Sun Pact SPF 42++++. Obviously there are set backs to powder sunscreens, such as not knowing if you're actually getting enough product/coverage on your face. As I am mostly an indoors person, I find this suitable for me cause my UV exposure tends to be more "incidental". I have also tried both the SuperGoop powder sunscreen and the derma-e dupe of the SuperGoop one, and I didn't like either of them because of the brush mechanism. I think the idea is neat, but the execution is a big nope for me. When I am purposely going to be out in the sun again, then I use a custom cushion filled w/the same Senka sunscreen, and then use some of the Skinfood powder on top to get rid of the shiny/dewy look lol.

EDIT: Ok, this totally slipped my mind, but a lot of Asian SPF powders contain talc. If you are looking for something without talc, I have personally been recommended Vintorte Mineral UV Powder before (JP name: SPF50+PA++++ ミネラルＵＶパウダー) but since I still have my Skinfood compact (and even my SuperGoop and derma-e powders lol) laying around I haven't bothered figuring out how to buy it outside of Japan aside from maybe bugging a friend to buy it for me. It is on YesStyle, but it costs like 2x as much on YesStyle as it does in Japan.

Got both the brush and stand from Amazon. May be able to find it cheaper elsewhere but I really like the one stop shopping experience.

Links to the Brush and Stand:

Beauty Strokes Original H.I.S Shaving Brush

Compact Chrome Safety Razor and Shaving Brush Stand from Super Safety Razors

Products to add to your wishlist:
The expensive Neutral palette!
Beauty blender sponges for foundation or this
Eye brush set
GREAT blush duos offered in a few colors
ELF eyelid primer makes your eye makeup stay in place
NYX milk use this over primer to make your eyeshadow STAND OUT like woah
Search for "Sleek Palette", they're all great but I love this one
This is a fantastic one as well!

Happy birthday! :)

If it was my birthday I would love, love to get some new brushes, a new NYX lippie, and this lipstick scarf!. It's my party!:)

If you have Mac Fix+ or Elf Mist & Set (or something similar), you can use it to wet your eyeshadow brush and it greatly minimizes fallout while making the color deeper.

The eye brushes in the RT collection are reallllly large and hard to use imo. I'm not sure any of those could be used to pack on color very well :/. These are the best cheap brushes I've found if you feel like you need something different. There's an end for blending (long and fluffy), one for the crease (medium length, medium fluffy), one for packing on color (the short and stubby one), and another for eyeliner or brows. I really like it.

The other replies are really great, too. This technique can be used on top of (/u/bratchny's black base suggestion). Otherwise underneath all of that, use your regular primer!

I love love love my [ecotools retractable kabuki] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001MX89Y8/ref=wms_ohs_product?ie=UTF8&psc=1). It's sooo soft and it glides powder onto my face really well.

Thank you! I ended up getting this to practice with, the reviews say they were comparable (or even better) than Sigma brushes: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0173H85KO/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

​

I am going to go to the makeup counters a little more as well and see how much of a difference experimenting with different brushes make, because if my skills are still underwhelming I'm not going to notice anything.

​

Hopefully by the time Black Friday rolls around I'll have a better understanding of what I'm doing! Appreciate the thoughtful responses everyone!

I haven't used the Escali shaving brush, but I've heard lousy things about it. The brush sheds, and it irritates the skin. Escali uses black badger, and the only black badger brush I've ever used lathered great but stung my face. Consider getting an Omega boar brush, which can be had for like ten bucks. Boar brushes feel coarse at first, but they soften up as the bristles split at the ends. The brush also smells like hairy pig until the break-in phase is over. Alternatively, you could get an Ecotools Kabuki brush, which is made from bamboo and is considered to be a good starter brush.

If you want a cheaper alternative to the kit you have, you can go to Maggard Razors. They have their own brand of razors that seems to be based in part on the Edwin Jagger line. I can't speak to the quality of their razors (I use an Edwin Jagger and I like it a lot), but everyone who buys one seems to like it. You can get a kit with a razor, brush, shave soap, and alum for $40-50, and you can pick and choose your own blade sampler as well. The owners of the website are also frequent posters, and you can shoot /u/kcbeemo a message if you have a question about a product.

I purchased these brushes on Amazon and honestly love them. They're inexpensive yet pretty good quality. There's also a black and silver set.

I missed my chance to use that! Lol. Thank you!! I bought a set off Amazon actually and they're super soft! Here's the link for them: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LY8ICR6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_lfZvDbE3JRWGE
I use these brushes mixed with some from palettes I bought or a random Real Techniques brush. ☺

There are a couple of things you can do to avoid it. First, practice practice practice. Mascara takes a lot of getting used to. Second, if you're having trouble with them going different directions, try combing them out first. You can get an eyelash comb like this one: http://www.amazon.com/Tweezerman-1054-r-Folding-Eyelash-Comb/dp/B002HK2GI0 to help keep them in line. Third, don't lay it on too thick! Even the lightest mascara will clump up if you put on too much. Lastly, a lot of it has to do with the formula of the mascara. Some mascaras will just clump up no matter how well you apply it. A lot of people really like covergirl's clump crusher formula. It's a good, cheap go to that will help you get rid of clumps.

I hope that helps!

I love /r/MakeupAddiction but I swear those ladies put me to shame. I am especially in love with all the eyebrow work. For some reason, it's not a thing I ever did for myself. (Other than general plucking maintenance.) I'm thinking that now I should. :)

This brush set has been on my list for a while.

Thanks for the contest!

I haven't shipped this haul yet as I'm still adding stuff but sure why not!

• Gucci blooms phonecase: £155. Rep: ¥32
  
  
• Saint Laurent t-shirt: £275. Rep: ¥67
  
  
• Dior twilly: £150. Rep: ¥48
  
  
• Goyard cardholder: ~£350 second hand, no idea how much a new one goes for. Rep: ¥38
  
  
• Beautyblender duo: ~£30 for 2. Rep: ¥25
  
  
• Tiffany Open Heart necklace: £570. Rep: ¥126
  
  
• Tiffany Return to Tiffany's necklace: £120. Rep: ¥86
  
  
• Tiffany Olive Leaf necklace: £205. Rep: ¥100
  
  
• LV Key Pouch: £130. Rep: ¥45
  
  
• Gucci shawl: ~£390. Rep: ¥53
  
  
• Gucci Brixton loafers: £540. Rep: ¥380
  
  Total auth: £2915
  Total reps: ~£ 100

Currently using Missha Essence Sun Milk (SPF 50+/PA+++), and like how it wears under makeup. I am planning to try the Etude House Sunprise next, given the hype.

I’m ordering DIY Cushion Compact for easy reapplication over makeup with my upcoming vacation to NOLA.

And of course, wearing oversized sunglasses with UVA/UVB protection and a hat with the same are the best measures you can take for your sensitive eye area and often overlooked scalp - particularly if you’re facing the sun each day for hours at work!

Edit: Your skin type sounds very similar to mine, and the Missha has been very gentle for me, particularly when I keep it in the fridge prior to application.

They are actually really soft af makeup brushes. Often called oval or paddle brushes. Here’s a set on amazon just so you know what the full brush looks like. They come much bigger than the one in the picture. :) They’re usually incredibly soft, I love them lol.

I would say if you don't mind spending a little, the etude house [i need you masks] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00OR0UYXC?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00) are a great price for a huge variety. I love the variety and they work well on my face.

Depends on your personal taste, eyeshape, makeup style...
I like the Ardelle Wispies:
http://www.amazon.com/Ardell-Invisiband-Lashes-Glamour-Wispies-Black/dp/B0035LCW4I/ref=sr_1_2?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1374473586&sr=1-2&keywords=wispies

If you are looking for something even more natural these could work and are pretty cheap:
http://www.amazon.com/Pairs-Handmade-Natural-False-Eyelashes/dp/B006GKHIHQ/ref=pd_sim_bt_1

I also think brands like NYC and ELF sell $1-$3 lashes that look fairly natural.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01IT09GL6/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&th=1

The largest of these oval brushes is HANDS DOWN the best brush I have ever used for foundation. And I absolutely adore one of the more medium sized brushed for cream blush application.

Haven't found a good use for the other ones in the set but for 8 bucks I'm good with obsessively using only two. :-D

Buy these! I have them and holy crap are they worth the money. You will have to get some glue (I suggest Duo non-permanent) but the lashes are easy to trim down to your length and if you mess one up you've got a whole bunch more!

I've used the full tapered set and the set that looks like it has points with a smokey eye. Love them!

Welcome back! And what an entrance to make. =)

RAINFOREST

I would love a BeautyBlender

I'm considering getting a heated eyelash curler (perhaps this one). Every time I try to apply top liner, my curler always ruins/smudges the line so I thought this might be a good solution. I would love to hear some thoughts and opinions on heated curlers!

I think this is the best foundation brush I have tried at any price.

The It Cosmetics Bye Bye Redness is not technically a foundation, though you can do whatever you want with it. It is a very small size to use as foundation, I think, but it does cover redness and I believe it comes with a little brush to buff it in. It looks dark for my NC20 skin but I can wear it alone just over my redness and it blends out beautifully. You use a minuscule amount, so it might go further as a foundation making it price effective.

These blending brushes will help me hone my makeup artist skills. :) It's on Yes, Please!

I like this one from Tweezerman! The teeth are pretty fine and
they're pointed at the tip, so it does a good job of separating.

You need These make up brushes

and This nail polish for spring.

If I win a Kindle book would be nice :)

Honestly the ones from this stupidly cheap brush set. I reach for them more often that my UD optical blurring or any of my Real Technique brushes. I'm really lazy about washing brushes so I have 2 sets of these haha. They're surprisingly soft, do their job well, & haven't shed on me.

This one also includes eye brushes which are also nice:
http://www.amazon.com/Synthetic-Cosmetics-Foundation-Blending-Eyeliner/dp/B00KOW827M/ref=sr_1_2?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1422667064&sr=1-2

This one's just the foundation brushes:
http://www.amazon.com/Professional-Synthetic-Kabuki-Foundation-Cosmetic/dp/B00ENU1SP4/ref=sr_1_71?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1422666983&sr=1-71

i have that exact one and struggled so much. Then I found [this baby] (http://www.amazon.com/Real-Techniques-Silicone-Liner-Brush/dp/B00GXFZHD6) the other day at Ulta and changed my life forever. It's pretty dang awesome, since I usually am best at applying eyeliner with the thin brushes. It's not a brush either but I like how I don't have to worry about bristles and stuff. They also have another Matte liner I believe that has the EXACT same effect as their gel liner. Can't recall the name but it's a matte black.

I got this set and it's amazing for the price! As good or slightly better than my ecotools ones.

I personally have tons and tons of ELF brushes, but I'm not sure if you can get those in the UK and they're not MAC quality by any means. I was eyeing up [this] (http://www.amazon.co.uk/SHANY-Professional-13-Piece-Cosmetic-Brushes/dp/B001JKTTVQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1343753714&sr=8-1&keywords=makeup+brushes) brush set from SHANY when I was buying one of their 120 palettes- it's got pretty fantastic reviews.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B006GKHIHQ/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

They're actually cheaper than I remember! They're a little weird to get used to but actually really nice once you do. You can only wear them a couple times though. And I'd carry around a little extra glue since the thread thing that holds them together is pretty flimsy.

This is just a little bit over $!0, but, if you don't have a beauty blender, I totally recommend it. I use liquid foundation, and it makes mine look infinitely better and more blended. I'm actually on my second one (my dogs mistook it for a toy one day...), but it's worth every penny!

http://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B000HRVC5I/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o09_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Ok here goes:

Weber polished DE
EcoTools Retractable Kabuki
4x Arko shave stick
200x Big Ben Stainless blades (these are my go to blades YMMV)
4x Arko Citrus ASB with Allantoin

The whole lot is pretty minimal and would be pretty reasonable at $135 even if you had to buy everything new right now.

I got a silicone tip brush and it works a lot better for me (still not great, but that's my skills) also easier to clean!

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Real-Techniques-Silicone-Liner-Brush/dp/B00GXFZHD6

Try some aloe or green tea masks! I haven't tried very many brands but I love Etude House I Need You sheet masks. Someone just posted a PSA of them on sale at amazon here

edit: These have slight fragrance to them but it's not strong or annoying

As long as it's a flat top kabuki, you should be fine. I actually prefer a synthetic cheapy I bought off Amazon because it produces a better airbrushed finish to the BM original brush. Any similar brush should be fine. You don't have to use BM brand.

Yeah $1 for all 3 + shipping. It doesn’t have any branding on it actually, but it’s from this set shipping is $4 flat to cover goods & services, but it’s a better value if you’re buying more items.

Qivange

Emax

Mokale

I also use elf brushes. These ones from amazon are super soft and they work well. Plus they're cheap!

Brushes, striping tape, gems
clear stamper
stamping plate to be used with the clear stamper
stamping polish
makeup wedge for gradients
simply peel latex barrier
bliss kiss cuticle oil
crystal nail file

Everyone has a preferred polish brand. OPI and Zoya seem to be really popular, and you can find both at Ulta or online.

https://www.amazon.com/Its-My-Cushion-cosmetic-internal/dp/B0157HF4QU/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1518903999&sr=1-1&keywords=it%27s%2Bmy%2Bcushion&th=1 I have this and I really love it! Although /u/YueRain 's suggestion is definitely more eco-friendly, if you already happen to have an extra cushion case.

My stomach just dropped. If only I could afford that! That sounds fantastic. I'll start saving my pennies. (:

Is this the write one? http://www.amazon.com/Beautyblender-Ultimate-Makeup-Sponge-Applicator/dp/B000HRVC5I/ref=sr_1_1?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1398819718&sr=1-1&keywords=Beauty+blender+sponge

Thanks for this! I had no idea a comb like this existed, but I just ordered this tweezerman version and it was prime eligible. Woo hoo!

This is $1.09 with free shipping, so you could also gift other people :D

I like the big booties and I cannot lie.

I do like big booties. And boobs.

HE JUST WANTS TO DANCE!

I have these makeup brushes that keep fluctuating slightly below and slightly above $10. Otherwise, I also have a Sims 3 expansion pack and a Copic book that also fluctuates, but if they're all over $10 by the time the contest ends, anything from my ~$10 wishlist would be fine. :D

Bonus Cupid

These are the lashes she got me

Super cute, affordable and you can use each pair 2x, 3 max!

The Wiki has a ton of useful information, it's what I went off of before taking the plunge about a month ago.

There are some great kits that are also available in the sidebar, sorted by price range, but personalized kits will take a little longer to understand and build up. I'm still on all of my first everything (save for blades) so I'm taking my time with everything. I personally used the Van Der Hagen Deluxe Shave Set because I found it at Target for $20. The brush is apparently terrible, but I've not had an issue with it's shedding just yet and someone earlier was saying they lost theirs and miss it terribly.

I'm not quite sure if this is the one regularly linked, but the EcoTools Kabuki is a regularly recommended brush from /u/LeisureGuy, who has some fantastic advice to be given out.

Going around doing some reading on this sub and the wiki will help you get a lot of the information that you'll need in order to actually put your kit together. There are several videos on YouTube (geofatboy and mantis are the popular ones) that show you how to lather, how to shave, how to maintain your razor, and how to change out blades, anything really.

I also use a generic Lord razor currently, it's a good price for a decent razor, something to consider, there is a less expensive one available, but the reviews are mixed on it.

false lashes never last very long because of the layers of glue from reusing and putting mascara on it or what not so don't feel the need to spend $$$ on high end falsies (unless they look like bomb like Shu Umera) . you can get a box of 70 at amazon! just make sure to clean off the glue if you want to reuse.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0058L24O6/ref=mp_s_a_2?qid=1334815072&sr=8-2-spell

http://connaughtshaving.com/31p8gr.html

That what you mean?

And have you used http://www.amazon.com/Beauty-Strokes-Original-Shaving-Handle/dp/B0088HXMK2 ?

Seems a little large for my preferences but it got great reviews.

I can tell you what she owns because I bought it a lot of it lol.
http://amzn.com/B008FX7B9M
http://amzn.com/B001JKTTVQ
and she has ruby woo, bombshell, fetish mac lipstick. Some foundations she got on her own as well.

May I suggest a good lash comb? This one's the one I use and it's been a game changer. My favorite mascara is Essence Lash Princess, the teal tube. Really holds a curl but you definitely have to comb them through after.

I think they are actually pretty good. Got some short ones and medium ones, and some really thick ones that are thick as hell. They look really cool with heavier makeup.

http://www.amazon.com/Bundle-Monster-Pairs-False-Eyelashes/dp/B0058L24O6/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1381011893&sr=8-3&keywords=70+false+lashes

That's what I got. I'm happy with them.

Pretty sure it's http://www.amazon.com/dp/B006GKHIHQ These are very, very natural looking, in fact you might not even see much of a difference when you have them on, it just makes your lashes look longer. Hopefully these are the ones your coworker was wearing. I know they come in different styles, but you're probably going to have to look for it on amazon.

1. These brushes. Because they're soft and nice and help me look less dead when I go out into the world of living creatures.
   
2. Terek Noir!
   
3. I would like to find a job that doesn't try to murder me.
   
4. Poppin bottles.
   
   Also, congratulations! I've had family members who have struggled with various addictions so I know it can be really tough. <3

If it's dry, you can just scrape it down with a palette knife or sand it down with some fine grit sandpaper. It doesn't have to be, like, smooth as glass or anything, you just want to avoid any big piles or little spikes of paint.

In the future, if you do your underpainting with pretty thin paint for your darks, you can wipe away the light areas with a rag or paper towel. If you're working in oil paint, cosmetic wedges are awesome, and tonking is a really useful technique for pulling up excess paint while it's still wet. (It may work on acrylics while they're wet, too; I don't really use them but unless there's some kind of extender in the medium I would think it'd dry too quickly.)

GO KAYLA GO. item thanks for doing this, and good luck!

EcoTools Eye Enhancing Duo Brush Set Define Blend & Smudge Eyeshadow & Liner https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00GNA9KKM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_xvBPDbWCJ49P4 I'm a big fan of these ones! They've lasted me a few years now and still going strong!

I believe some companies will sell just the case with an plain sponge so that you can put your own bb or cc cream into it.

something like this?

But I'm not sure that it will fit your missha cushion though. But it could be worth a try?

*edited for formatting

Apologies, on phone. I LOVE these brushes. They're Sigma dupes. Here's the ones I ordered: Premium Synthetic Kabuki Makeup Brush Set Cosmetics Foundation Blending Blush Eyeliner Face Powder Brush Makeup Brush Kit (10pcs, Silver Black) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KOW827M/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_IZkZub0QMAP7P

I actually love one of the smaller brushes from this set for contouring my nose. Something about the shape/handle makes it so easy, and it's so soft and fluffy.

I found this set of brushes that I have and love for $3.14. I bought a few to give to people with palettes as it has everything you need.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00GNA9KKM?ref=ppx_pt2_dt_b_prod_image

http://www.amazon.com/Pairs-Handmade-Natural-False-Eyelashes/dp/B006GKHIHQ/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1398202184&sr=8-2&keywords=eye+lashes this is on American Amazon says free shipping

If you want to save a little cash, I swear by this box of lashes. 70 pairs for $16!

I like my brush right now but I feel that it's a bit lacking when giving up its lather. I've been thinking about the H.I.S. brush.

they are much much cheaper on amazon, you would be wise to spend your dollars on things you cant really get any cheaper in other places.

http://www.amazon.com/Beautyblender-Ultimate-MakeUp-Applicator-sponge/dp/B000HRVC5I

I used it last summer on several days when I was out in the sun all day long. It works really well for me. I carry the compact with me and this retractable brush and reapply every hour or so. My skin is very pale and burns easily and throughout the entire summer I only got very slightly burnt once and that was only because I forgot to reapply.

EDIT: Forgot a word.

Ask the seller to issue a refund. If the seller doesn't respond within a few days, open a dispute with eBay.

I think they have brushes similar to the Zoeva complete eye set on amazon if you're interested :)
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LY8ICR6/ref=twister_B01M7YSHDW?_encoding=UTF8&th=1

I am a THUNDERSTORM! Because as a mom, I have rained on a few parades and if needed, put the fear of God in my kids.

My look: http://imgur.com/a/aJZyx

Thank you for hosting!

Edit: item from my wish list: http://www.amazon.com/SHANY-Professional-13-Piece-Cosmetic-Brushes/dp/B001JKTTVQ/ref=wl_it_dp_v_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=1UMJLUPK2WE2C&coliid=I1Z8XTEC3RF9Q9

Comb through your lashes after you put mascara on with a spare spoolie (you can buy bulk packs on Amazon) or an eyelash comb and it should take care of any spidery issues!

If I don't use an eyelash curler, the Dolly Wink Long (my favorite mascara for the past year and a half) is pretty meh, but once I started using a heated eyelash curler like this, and it makes my eyelashes exactly what I want them to be.

For the weathering, he uses quite a coarse sponge.

Personally, I prefer using: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003BMGAFI/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Very even coverage for weathering effects, making them seem more genuine to me.

Cheers!

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00JZFB13G/ref=aw_wl_ov_dp_1_4?colid=1K1B2BEAPBP23&coliid=I32TMESNOYJNRG&vs=1
At $1.99, This is SO not even close to $3.14 lol. AND http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00HJY2RGU/ref=aw_wl_ov_dp_2_2?colid=1K1B2BEAPBP23&coliid=I1S2Y3H2G3XPM4&vs=1 Whoever innovated these had to to a LOT of science.

I'm still doing research to find the best ones. Someone made a post about these- I haven't tried them out yet, but I will!

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B006GKHIHQ/ref=cm_sw_r_udp_awd_8r.Jtb0YY1JV4

A make up blender :D I keep getting told I need to try using them as they are the best, but I can't find any in my local stores that aren't rough!

I absolutely lost it when she posted this .. like, as IF I pay 10 bucks a pair. Haha, ordering these this weekend forsure! I feel like I'll get more use out of the lashes included in this pack.

I have tried out a lot of eyeliners. I always seem to come back to the Elf brush liner. I guess I really like their formula. Plus, they are really cheap. What you can do is buy one of those silicone eyeliner brush and use that instead of what it came with.

Razor EJ DE89 an alternative could be the Merkur 23C mentioned by Dubaya or a Parker 91R.

Brush HIS. Synthetic brushes don't have to be broken in and have no funny smells.

Shaving Cream TOBS Avocado. Easy to lather, neutral smell. Pick a different smell if you like.

Blades A Sampler because there's no telling which will work for him.

Amazon typically has some variety packs available, linked to a few here:
MBD Carnival
TonyMoly I'm Real
Innisfree
MyScheming
Etude House I Need You

It's a Beauty Blender, basically a sponge used to apply makeup like foundation.

http://www.amazon.com/Pairs-Handmade-Natural-False-Eyelashes/dp/B006GKHIHQ/ref=sr_1_3?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1416934574&sr=1-3&keywords=eyelashes&pebp=1416934607396

These are the cheap ones I use that I like a lot. Shipping takes a while, though.

I just bought this from Amazon and am quite happy with the purchase. 20 sheet masks from Etude House for around $30. Probably not the best deal but I'm just starting out in AB.

Thanks for the suggestion! I couldn't find the 3 pc set, but I'm going to give the 2 pc set a shot.

I am only sixteen right now. For my 18th birthday I want to go on a road trip and drive and drive past the Cinderella license curfew. (I live in new jersey) I want to go with my boyfriend and just drive away, no matter what my mother says. I'm gonna be a little (mini) rebel that night!

Speaker of da hauz

This please
<3 http://www.amazon.com/dp/B004TSFEBY/ref=cm_sw_r_an_am_ap_am_us?ie=UTF8

I bought this pack of false lashes from amazon, they're one of the less-full varieties that were included in the box.

Why does this, BeautyBlender, cost $20?

It's tiny.

> https://smile.amazon.com/Panasonic-ES2351AC-Heated-Eyelash-Curler/dp/B0009DT39W?sa-no-redirect=1

So we now prefer to put hot objects next our eyeballs instead?

BS-MALL(TM) Makeup Brush Set Premium Synthetic Kabuki Makeup Brush Set Cosmetics Foundation Blending Blush Eyeliner Face Powder Brush Makeup Brush Kit(10pcs, Silver Black) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KOW827M/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_t3sHxb9JXBSCP

http://www.amazon.com/Burts-Bees-Hand-Salve-Tin/dp/B00014D5O8/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=3A4FBIQEAHQMB&coliid=I21651D9QC0ZQ9

http://www.amazon.com/Tweezerman-1054-r-Folding-Eyelash-Comb/dp/B002HK2GI0/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=3A4FBIQEAHQMB&coliid=I1VPXWUPO3KBTV

Argh.

For anyone in the UK, the set of 20 is £18.73 (as of right now) on Amazon UK.

This on my cosmetics list!

I'm talking about these and other variations thereof:

Premium Synthetic Kabuki Makeup Brush Set Cosmetics Foundation Blending Blush Eyeliner Face Powder Brush Makeup Brush Kit (10pcs, Silver Black) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KOW827M/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_KSsDub0AMXCBK

cheap falsies? http://www.amazon.com/Pairs-Handmade-Natural-False-Eyelashes/dp/B006GKHIHQ/ref=sr_1_24?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1382473369&sr=1-24

Qivange Eye Brush Set, Cosmetics Eyeliner Eyeshadow Blending Brushes (12pcs, Black with Rose Gold) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LY8ICR6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_2bIdBbNZZTQVQ


Qivange Eye Makeup Brushes, Eyeshadow Concealer Eyeliner Brushes Set with Portable Pouch (12pcs, Pink with Rose Gold) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MF5SWII/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_RcIdBb6DJCYF8


It seems that the ones I got aren’t available but these look the exact same!

I also have a small-sized one, and seriously-- it is the only mascara I have ever been able to wear, let alone love! It's the only one that doesn't irritate my eyes or flake all over the place, or turn me into a raccoon. (I have started using an eyelash comb to get rid of any clumps because I've always hated clumps, but I think the mascara rocks!)

I squeeze once at the base, then I move along the lash, squeezing 3 or 4 more times to get more of an even curl.

I used to use a heated eyelash curler like this and it worked really well... but it kept running out of battery and I got lazy.

I started wearing falsies everyday since maybe february and haven't looked back! I buy these in bulk

http://www.amazon.com/Pairs-Handmade-Natural-False-Eyelashes/dp/B006GKHIHQ/ref=pd_bia_nav_t_1?ie=UTF8&refRID=1ETSKR6PY14E61NH07E9

I can use a pair for up to 2 weeks if I'm careful/don't get drunk and ruin them. They are so natural looking no one ever suspects a thing ;) I usually have to cut the ends a bit cause they're too long for my eye length, plus it's more natural looking if they don't span across your entire eye from corner to corner. Let me know if you want me to post a picture of me wearing them or anything :)