This is for practical women who think makeup trends are cool, but would rather stick to tried-and-true basics that take 30 minutes or less. And for those dealing with skin conditions that make trying new products intimidating, I understand. My skin is prone to sensitivity, eczema, and oiliness (especially on my eyelids). I’ve learned to respect my skin by being diligent about the makeup I wear.

My relationship with makeup has evolved over the years, but there are certain products I’m loyal to: sunscreen/primer, liquid eyeliner, mascara, concealer, foundation, setting powder, and lip balm.

I’ve tried various brands for each of these products, some expensive and mostly budget-friendly. I’ve noticed that “expensive” doesn’t alway mean quality, so I always watch out for that. When in doubt—research, research, research! All the brands I mention are my current choices, but may be switched out if I find something better.

*This article is not sponsored by any of these brands.

Sunscreen/Primer

Sunscreen is the most important thing to apply to protect the face from the sun, the second being a primer to make sure the makeup applies on smoothly. I use the Fenty Hydra Vizor Invisible Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen with Niacinamide + Kalahari Melon, a moisturizing sunscreen that can also act as a primer. What I love about this sunscreen: the melon scent, smooth texture, no chalk-looking residue, and it’s refillable!

For extra hydration, I spritz on the NYX Bare With Me Multitasking Makeup Spray before applying the Hydra Vizor. What I love about this spray: the aloe vera + cucumber scent and it’s sensitive-skin friendly. I only use it as a priming spray because I prefer a loose powder to set my makeup (which I’ll get into later).

Liquid Eyeliner

I’ve loved the winged eyeliner look since I was a teenager. I’m still perfecting the application, but either way it is my go-to eye look. There’s something about it that gives my eyes a sleekness that will never go out of style. I use the Stila Stay All Day Liquid Eyeliner, a waterproof and smudge proof liquid eyeliner with a marker-like tip. What I love about this liquid eyeliner: resists being smudged by my oily lids and the marker-like tip’s precision.

Mascara

I have short and thin lashes (thanks to my eyelash extension obsession back in the day) that need mascara to give it some kind of dimension and work well with my oily lids. I use the E.L.F. Lash XTNDR Mascara, a lengthening mascara that uses tubing technology (the mascara wraps around the lash) that prevents smudging. What I love about this mascara: no smudges (of course!) and my lashes stay lengthened all day.

Concealer

I’m new to the concealer game, but wanted to try it for my under eye circles. I always steered clear of it because I wasn’t sure what my shade was. Luckily, a worker at Ulta helped me out and now it’s part of my makeup routine. I use the NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer, a multi-purpose concealer with a light and creamy finish. What I love about this concealer: my under eyes look light and glowy all day.

Foundation

I remember using that cheap, drug store foundation powder in middle school that was definitely not my shade. Since then, I’ve learned that liquid foundation is the move for me because it’s smooth and clean when applied on my skin. I use the Fenty Pro Filt'r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation, a medium to full coverage, all-day wear, and sweat-resistant liquid foundation. What I love about this foundation: shade match is perfection and it doesn’t add shine.

Setting Powder

For a while, I didn’t know I needed something to “set” my makeup. I found out one day when my husband pointed out my foundation was sliding. I’ve tried a setting spray, but didn’t like the dewy look for my already oily face. So, I came across a translucent loose setting powder that I loved and never looked back. I use the MAC Studio Fix Pro Set + Blur Weightless Loose Powder, a transparent setting powder with a matte finish. What I love about this setting powder: controls the shine and doesn’t dry out my face.

Lip Balm

One of the first makeup products I ever used was lip balm. It was always some kind of berry flavor that tastes like candy and never lasted more than a few minutes on the lips. Now that I’m older, I’ve maintained my preference for lip balms but with a hint of luxury. I use the Oliviaumma Mint Glass Skin Tanghulu Liptox, a glossy plumping lip balm. What I love about this lip balm: its proper glossy look without the stickiness, its subtle mintiness, and long-lasting wear.

My Low-Key Makeup Routine