As a beauty junkie, and self proclaimed makeup connoisseur, my morning routine is EXTENSIVE (but also suuuuper therapeutic). I love taking the time to put on my makeup, blend my eyeshadow to filth, and make sure my eyeliner wings don’t fly away. My morning routine is my designated hour (or 3) to do what I love, and bask in the zen.

    Aside from keeping my highlighter “fleeky,” my skincare routine is what really allows my makeup to sit perfectly on my skin. A wise makeup artist once told me that “your makeup only looks as good as your skin does underneath” and I’ve lived my life by this ever since!

    It is extremely important to keep up with a skincare routine that is appropriate for your skin-type, whether your skin is oily, dry, combination, or sensitive. In my case, my skin is combination; I am dry on the perimeter of my face, and my T-zone produces oil throughout the day. Sometimes with this skin-type, it is difficult to keep things under wraps, but it is actually the most common skin-type there is. See below for what I use on a daily basis, and my top tip if you have similar skin:

1. Facial Cleanser – I use the Fresh Soy Face Cleanser, which is actually good for every skin type. I love it because it doesn’t strip my skin, and it prevents excess oil production later in the day.
2. Body Cleanser – I use the Dove Deep Moisture Nourishing Body Wash, which helps my skin retain its moisture. I love it because it doesn’t leave me with a soapy residue, and it keeps my skin feeling hydrated.
3. Apres Shower – After I get out of the shower, I use the Mario Badescu Cucumber Lotion Toner on my face. It tightens pores, soothes skin, and prevents future acne flare-ups. On my body, I use Kora Organics Noni Glow Body Oil. I love it because it is soothing, toning, nourishing, and it ultimately prevents my legs from feeling dry or itchy.
4. At my vanity – This is where the magic happens! I start by prepping my face with Mario Badescu Cucumber Spray, then I apply Clarins Facial Contouring Serum, followed by Mario Badescu Oil Free Moisturizer. I will finish by dousing my lips in Scentbird Green Tea Lip Balm, which not only tastes amazing, but also feels amazing. It is rich in Vitamins A & E, Avocado Oil and Sweet Almond Oil, and the metal applicator leaves my lips feeling rejuvenated and slightly plumped.

Besides my skincare routine, I will use 20+ makeup products on my face, my essentials being Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Definer, Lancôme Hypnôse Drama Mascara, and Deck of Scarlet Long-Lasting Liquid Eyeliner in “Koko Kavari.”

Angela Rodriguez, Product Development Coordinator