Did you know that it’s possible to get full-coverage makeup and it be affordable and look good all day long?
A couple of weeks ago, I posted a photo and video on Instagram stories. The photo was of my face, wearing zero makeup, and all of my acne in full force. The video was of my face, with full-coverage makeup, and barely any sign of the acne that I’d previously displayed. (ClickΒ here if you want to see) Battling a digestive disease means simultaneously battling horrible acne and skin issues due to my gut being totally out of wack. Unfortunately, troublesome skin is something it seems I may face for the rest of my life, in one way or another. Right now it’s acne and hyperpigmentation – but who knows what it might be in the future.
I’m incredibly grateful for cosmetics, and I do wear a full-face of makeup every day, unless I’m home by myself. I don’t like showing my natural skin because of the tricky skin. However, I know I’m not alone in dealing with skin that isn’t always my best friend. I received several DM’s after posting the transformation, with questions on how I achieved that coverage. I want to provide a little insight into how I do that during the summertime, because it’s something I’ve gotten pretty dang good at, and I want to pass the knowledge along.
Keep in mind that this routine isΒ full-coverage andΒ long-lasting forΒ combination skin. This is specific to the summer, but it isΒ not waterproof. You don’t want to wear these products to the pool if you plan to take a dip. I haven’t mastered that kind of makeup yet, but I’m still experimenting!
Here are the products I use for my full-coverage makeup routine. They make my skin appear “flawless,” despite my acne.
Prep
Skincare is incredibly important. Just because I have acne-prone skin doesn’t mean I just say “screw it” and stop caring. I have a daytime and nighttime routine, but let’s focus on the daytime products, because they’re what I would put on prior to makeup. This includes my cleanser, redness-reducing spray, under-eye brightening, and moisturizer linked in order below.
Base
Here’s where the coverage comes in. I start with primer (either the UD one if I’m feeling dry, or the poreless putty if I’m feeling oily). Then, I use two concealers – one below my foundation and one above it + under my eyes, a full-coverage foundation, and two powders – one for my face and one under my eyes. I’ve linked them in order below.
Color
You’d be surprised how much it helps to add that highlighter, bronzer, and blush. Color and definition to your face make your skin appear less dull, and draws the eye to something other than just the imperfections. I apply in the order linked below.
Eyes
Just like the cheek color, adding to the eyes can make a huge difference. This is where I like to focus the most because I really like my eyes, so I want the attention to be on them, rather than my splotchy or textured skin. I switch up my palettes day-to-day, but I’ve linked the few I use most often, along with eyeliner, and mascaras. I also included my brow product. They’re in order of application below.
Finish
Last, but definitely not least, is the setting spray. If you follow me on Instagram, you’ll know that I rave about this particular setting sprayΒ all the time. It’s just really that good! In fact, the last time I made an order, I boughtΒ three just so I’d never be out of one! It sets down the makeup, gives you the perfect glow, and in my opinion – it helps the makeup last much longer than most others! I’ve linked it below.
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30 Items I Loved in Spring 2019Β //Β Makeup Starter Kits (High-End and Drugstore) //Β 3 Lip Products You Should Be Using Right Now
Rach says
Oo I love how easy it is! Usually long lasting makeup is quite the process and lots of (expensive) makeup products. Thanks for sharing that it is possible to do with affordable products!
http://www.rdsobsessions.com
Stephanie Whitman says
When I have eyelash extensions or just do a simple eye, the face alone takes but five minutes. So simple. There may be a handful of products but it’s definitely nothing crazy!
Tanvi Rastogi says
You always look flawless so I will trust your review … I am a tinted moisturizer and kajal kinda girl but love that all these products are at an affordable price point.
β₯ tanvii.com
Stephanie Whitman says
Girl, if I had skin that wasn’t so difficult, I would be the same way. Eh, I say that but I do love makeup so I’d probably still go nuts just because it’s fun for me.
Donna says
What a fantastic post, Stephanie. Thank you for all of your great ideas!! So helpful!!
Stephanie Whitman says
I’m glad you found it beneficial. I sure do love experimenting with my canvas (aka my face haha)!
Becky says
There are some good sounding products here. Let me know when you figure out the waterproof routine, haha – I’m not so concerned about the pool but honestly I sweat so much in the summer!
Stephanie Whitman says
Well, I would say this is sweat-proof, it’s just not waterproof entirely. I don’t think there really is any foundation routine that is, even if they claim to be waterproof. If they transfer at any point, they’re not waterproof. I want to be able to go full under and come up without any streaks or changes in appearance, but that’d just be pure magic haha!
Kimberly Smith says
I keep hearing great things about that Infallible Concealer – need to get some to try!
Stephanie Whitman says
I thought I would never ever stray from the Tarte Shape Tape, but I gotta say this is an AMAZING (and affordable) dupe. And the shade range is pretty excellent!
Jordyn says
I always love what other people use as their go-to skincare and makeup products. I agree with what you said about skincare, even if your skin is being tricky that doesn’t mean you should just throw in the towel and give up, our skin needs love and care (especially when we are having an off day).
Stephanie Whitman says
I’m insanely picky with my skincare routine, and always have been. It’s unfortunate that no matter what I try: clean beauty, harsh chemicals, facials, essential oils, medication, etc. that my skin will probably always remain a challenge because of poor gut health due to my illness. It’s why I’m grateful for makeup and the ability to find products that cover what I can’t change.
Kileen says
You always look so gorgeous babe! Definitely need to try this concealer and this spray!!
Kileen
cute & little
Stephanie Whitman says
That’s so kind of you. It’s amazing what makeup can do, that’s for sure. I’ve struggled with problematic skin for years, so I’m grateful for products that help me conceal that.
Laura S says
I love a good full-coverage routine! These products are great!
Stephanie Whitman says
Ah, then this routine was made for you. It’s about as full-coverage as it gets, while still feeling breathable and lightweight!
sarah lindner says
Awesome post, this is a great routine!
Xoxo
Sarah Lindner
http://www.TheHouseOfSequins.com
Stephanie Whitman says
Thank you!
Laura Leigh says
These photos are beautiful gal! And you truly are the best at make-up and finding great affordable options – which I love. I am not into spending lots on make-up!
xo Laura Leigh
http://www.louellareese.com
Stephanie Whitman says
I really hate spending an arm and a leg for something that I use up every day. Splurging is for skincare (and maybe eyeshadow palettes haha) but when it comes to a base routine, I just want it to be simple, cover all my flaws, and not break the bank!
Kristina says
Your makeup always looks great!! I’ve honestly never bought full coverage foundation, only medium coverage or CC cream. I have melasma which makes my skin patchy/discolored so I should probably try it one of these days!
Stephanie Whitman says
I wish I could say I’ve never bought it, but CC cream, tinted moisturizers, etc. aren’t enough to cover the acne and hyperpigmentation that I have. It’s a lot of work to conceal all of that! If you ever want to try some fuller coverage products, I’m your gal for recommendations. I know so many different products to help out with that!
Ashley says
These all sound like great products! I finally found a product I love that is full coverage and long lasting! I use BeautyCounter!
Stephanie Whitman says
I’m honestly pretty shocked that they offer a full coverage foundation! Usually clean beauty brands only carry sheer or tinted foundations or concealers, and their shade range is okay at best. I’ll have to go a little more in-depth with this line to test for myself and see what I think! π
Kristen says
That Butter Bronzer has been a holy grail for me for years. It is perfect and smells amazing.
Carolyn says
I don’t have a digestive disease, but it always seems I have acne despite my best attempts to eat right, drink water, yada yada yada. Something inside of me must not be right, but when my acne is coming up, I too definitely lean towards a full coverage look. I like a light bb/cc cream when my skin is good…which is maybe one week a month haha! I use L’oreal for my full coverage look too! And by the way, I saw the video on Instagram. You are beautiful both ways π
WanderlustBeautyDreams says
Great choices, I use a lot of these products already! Love those mirror shots π
Nataly says
Wow! Your skin looks so beautiful! That Urban Decay naked palette is one of my all time favorites. I use it everyday!
Tara Fuller says
definitely want to try that setting spray – they make all the difference! i’m also addicted to butter bronzer bc it smells SO good!
Lily says
I recently tried this foundation and I have been enjoying it. As you know, I suffer from terrible acne too. I have found that supplements and a super consistent skincare routine is helping a ton. But I bet it’s harder with your GI issues — I am trying to cut dairy out but it’s been so hard.
Lee says
love finding good full coverage makeup!
Megan says
I’ve been looking for a new cleanser and moisturizer. I’ll try these!
Candace Hampton says
I really like the Infallible’s formula. It’s long lasting, full coverage and doesn’t cause me breakouts. The best part is that it’s super affordable and you can get a professional makeup look without spending a lot of money. The Lash Paradise mascara is my favorite btw. I haven’t found another mascara that can defeat that one lol
Denni says
Great choices ! I used to swear by Infallible foundation, love the finish of it and how long lasting it is, noways i don’t really reach for full-coverage so much anymore.
Ashley Hargrove says
Your makeup is always beyond flawless! I need to try some of these products. I’ve been looking to change out some of my usual products to find some new favorites!
Lecy | A Simpler Grace says
I always love your makeup! You’re featuring some great brands here. I am always on the lookout for good full-coverage foundation.
Monica says
This is seriously what I need! I still suffer from the occasional acne breakout (almost 30 here!?!) so full coverage is typically my go-to. It’s challenging sometimes because I feel like the fuller coverage tends to lead to more breakouts, so it’s a constant battle I struggle with!
Deborah Yi says
No wonder your makeup always looks so flawless! You have a great routine down pat! Totally stealing this for blog photoshoot days!
Ashley says
I love how you picked some affordable options! I don’t wear a lot of full coverage foundation, but I do like to splurge on special occasions and events and I don’t always want to spend a bunch! Plus, your skin looks amazing.
Rachel says
Girllllll -You look amazing! I just picked up the Maybelline concealer but need to pick up the rest of these products!
Rachel
http://www.hello-her.com
Cathy says
Love your routine. This makeup look is pretty on you and your skin looks fabulous!
XOXO
Cathy
Marlene says
That setting spray sounds amazing!! Iβll habe to check that out, thanks for sharing your tips.
Erin says
I want to check out your setting spray! How do you put on your foundation? I love my sponge but I always feel like I do an awful job of applying it!
Morgan Tyner says
Iβm the worst with makeup!! So this post has been so helpful!! Also, I love those Hydro Boost products! π€©
Xx, Morgs*
Riah says
Wow, these are some really great tips and ideas!
Anna English says
I love the variety of products you used in this post! Totally checking a few out.
Jamaria says
Great choices girl! I donβt really wear full coverage in the summer time, but Iβll keep this in mind for winter for special occasions! Xo
TianShanae says
I love the products you picked. The Maybelline Fit Me Loose Finishing Powder is my favorite and has been a staple in my makeup bag for a while. I love the natural finish it gives.
Kalyn says
I love the way you do your makeup! I use the foundation you do which obviously means I need to try the rest of your recommendations!
Kristin Taylor says
Iβve almost pulled the trigger on that infallible foundation so many times! Itβs never on sale in stores though and I loathe buying more just to meet the free shipping minimum though π Also going to add that Catrice spray, it sounds amazing!
Rach says
Oo I love how easy it is! Usually long lasting makeup is quite the process and lots of (expensive) makeup products. Thanks for sharing that it is possible to do with affordable products!
http://www.rdsobsessions.com
Stephanie Whitman says
When I have eyelash extensions or just do a simple eye, the face alone takes but five minutes. So simple. There may be a handful of products but it’s definitely nothing crazy!
Kimberly Smith says
I keep hearing great things about that Infallible Concealer – need to get some to try!
Stephanie Whitman says
I thought I would never ever stray from the Tarte Shape Tape, but I gotta say this is an AMAZING (and affordable) dupe. And the shade range is pretty excellent!
Kileen says
You always look so gorgeous babe! Definitely need to try this concealer and this spray!!
Kileen
cute & little
Stephanie Whitman says
That’s so kind of you. It’s amazing what makeup can do, that’s for sure. I’ve struggled with problematic skin for years, so I’m grateful for products that help me conceal that.
Laura S says
I love a good full-coverage routine! These products are great!
Stephanie Whitman says
Ah, then this routine was made for you. It’s about as full-coverage as it gets, while still feeling breathable and lightweight!
Tanvi Rastogi says
You always look flawless so I will trust your review … I am a tinted moisturizer and kajal kinda girl but love that all these products are at an affordable price point.
❥ tanvii.com
Stephanie Whitman says
Girl, if I had skin that wasn’t so difficult, I would be the same way. Eh, I say that but I do love makeup so I’d probably still go nuts just because it’s fun for me.
Donna says
What a fantastic post, Stephanie. Thank you for all of your great ideas!! So helpful!!
Stephanie Whitman says
I’m glad you found it beneficial. I sure do love experimenting with my canvas (aka my face haha)!
Becky says
There are some good sounding products here. Let me know when you figure out the waterproof routine, haha – I’m not so concerned about the pool but honestly I sweat so much in the summer!
Stephanie Whitman says
Well, I would say this is sweat-proof, it’s just not waterproof entirely. I don’t think there really is any foundation routine that is, even if they claim to be waterproof. If they transfer at any point, they’re not waterproof. I want to be able to go full under and come up without any streaks or changes in appearance, but that’d just be pure magic haha!
Laura Leigh says
These photos are beautiful gal! And you truly are the best at make-up and finding great affordable options – which I love. I am not into spending lots on make-up!
xo Laura Leigh
http://www.louellareese.com
Stephanie Whitman says
I really hate spending an arm and a leg for something that I use up every day. Splurging is for skincare (and maybe eyeshadow palettes haha) but when it comes to a base routine, I just want it to be simple, cover all my flaws, and not break the bank!
Ashley says
These all sound like great products! I finally found a product I love that is full coverage and long lasting! I use BeautyCounter!
Stephanie Whitman says
I’m honestly pretty shocked that they offer a full coverage foundation! Usually clean beauty brands only carry sheer or tinted foundations or concealers, and their shade range is okay at best. I’ll have to go a little more in-depth with this line to test for myself and see what I think! π
sarah lindner says
Awesome post, this is a great routine!
Xoxo
Sarah Lindner
http://www.TheHouseOfSequins.com
Stephanie Whitman says
Thank you!
Kristina says
Your makeup always looks great!! I’ve honestly never bought full coverage foundation, only medium coverage or CC cream. I have melasma which makes my skin patchy/discolored so I should probably try it one of these days!
Stephanie Whitman says
I wish I could say I’ve never bought it, but CC cream, tinted moisturizers, etc. aren’t enough to cover the acne and hyperpigmentation that I have. It’s a lot of work to conceal all of that! If you ever want to try some fuller coverage products, I’m your gal for recommendations. I know so many different products to help out with that!
Jordyn says
I always love what other people use as their go-to skincare and makeup products. I agree with what you said about skincare, even if your skin is being tricky that doesn’t mean you should just throw in the towel and give up, our skin needs love and care (especially when we are having an off day).
Stephanie Whitman says
I’m insanely picky with my skincare routine, and always have been. It’s unfortunate that no matter what I try: clean beauty, harsh chemicals, facials, essential oils, medication, etc. that my skin will probably always remain a challenge because of poor gut health due to my illness. It’s why I’m grateful for makeup and the ability to find products that cover what I can’t change.
Megan says
I’ve been looking for a new cleanser and moisturizer. I’ll try these!
Lily says
I recently tried this foundation and I have been enjoying it. As you know, I suffer from terrible acne too. I have found that supplements and a super consistent skincare routine is helping a ton. But I bet it’s harder with your GI issues — I am trying to cut dairy out but it’s been so hard.
Candace Hampton says
I really like the Infallible’s formula. It’s long lasting, full coverage and doesn’t cause me breakouts. The best part is that it’s super affordable and you can get a professional makeup look without spending a lot of money. The Lash Paradise mascara is my favorite btw. I haven’t found another mascara that can defeat that one lol
Nataly says
Wow! Your skin looks so beautiful! That Urban Decay naked palette is one of my all time favorites. I use it everyday!
Carolyn says
I don’t have a digestive disease, but it always seems I have acne despite my best attempts to eat right, drink water, yada yada yada. Something inside of me must not be right, but when my acne is coming up, I too definitely lean towards a full coverage look. I like a light bb/cc cream when my skin is good…which is maybe one week a month haha! I use L’oreal for my full coverage look too! And by the way, I saw the video on Instagram. You are beautiful both ways π
WanderlustBeautyDreams says
Great choices, I use a lot of these products already! Love those mirror shots π
Lee says
love finding good full coverage makeup!
Tara Fuller says
definitely want to try that setting spray – they make all the difference! i’m also addicted to butter bronzer bc it smells SO good!
Kristen says
That Butter Bronzer has been a holy grail for me for years. It is perfect and smells amazing.
Cathy says
Love your routine. This makeup look is pretty on you and your skin looks fabulous!
XOXO
Cathy
Monica says
This is seriously what I need! I still suffer from the occasional acne breakout (almost 30 here!?!) so full coverage is typically my go-to. It’s challenging sometimes because I feel like the fuller coverage tends to lead to more breakouts, so it’s a constant battle I struggle with!
Ashley says
I love how you picked some affordable options! I don’t wear a lot of full coverage foundation, but I do like to splurge on special occasions and events and I don’t always want to spend a bunch! Plus, your skin looks amazing.
Denni says
Great choices ! I used to swear by Infallible foundation, love the finish of it and how long lasting it is, noways i don’t really reach for full-coverage so much anymore.
Lecy | A Simpler Grace says
I always love your makeup! You’re featuring some great brands here. I am always on the lookout for good full-coverage foundation.
Erin says
I want to check out your setting spray! How do you put on your foundation? I love my sponge but I always feel like I do an awful job of applying it!
Ashley Hargrove says
Your makeup is always beyond flawless! I need to try some of these products. I’ve been looking to change out some of my usual products to find some new favorites!
Riah says
Wow, these are some really great tips and ideas!
Deborah Yi says
No wonder your makeup always looks so flawless! You have a great routine down pat! Totally stealing this for blog photoshoot days!
Rachel says
Girllllll -You look amazing! I just picked up the Maybelline concealer but need to pick up the rest of these products!
Rachel
http://www.hello-her.com
Morgan Tyner says
I’m the worst with makeup!! So this post has been so helpful!! Also, I love those Hydro Boost products! 🤩
Xx, Morgs*
Marlene says
That setting spray sounds amazing!! I’ll habe to check that out, thanks for sharing your tips.
Anna English says
I love the variety of products you used in this post! Totally checking a few out.
Kristin Taylor says
I’ve almost pulled the trigger on that infallible foundation so many times! It’s never on sale in stores though and I loathe buying more just to meet the free shipping minimum though 😆 Also going to add that Catrice spray, it sounds amazing!
Jamaria says
Great choices girl! I don’t really wear full coverage in the summer time, but I’ll keep this in mind for winter for special occasions! Xo
Kalyn says
I love the way you do your makeup! I use the foundation you do which obviously means I need to try the rest of your recommendations!
TianShanae says
I love the products you picked. The Maybelline Fit Me Loose Finishing Powder is my favorite and has been a staple in my makeup bag for a while. I love the natural finish it gives.