That daily routine

However, being authentic is especially hard if you’re a fashion blogger who has any type of skin imperfection. And here’s my confession: I have some serious adult scarring acne. One of the first times I modeled back in my early 20s, the makeup artist took one glance at my bare face and asked me what happened. As in, did I get stung by bees, or did a dog maul me? Okay, okay, so it’s not THAT bad, but for years I dealt with some severe insecurity and during college wouldn’t leave my dorm room without a fully made-up face. So, in case my daily skincare and makeup routine could help someone else, here’s a peek at what I use to look my best in photos (other than great lighting, of course).

*NOTE: I have received no compensation for promoting these products. Just sharing a few of my faves, since many of you have asked. 

MOISTURIZER: Laura Mercier Flawless Skin Tone Perfecting Crème
FOUNDATION: Chanel Vitalumière Aqua Liquid Foundation (10 Beige)
SETTING POWDER: Cover Girl Clean Pressed Powder (105 Ivory)
BLUSH FOR SPRING/SUMMER: Chanel Joues Contraste Powder Blush (72 Rose Initial)
HIGHLIGHTER: Chanel Les Beiges Healthy Glow Sheer Powder SPF 15 (No. 10)
LIP COLORS: Chanel Rouge Coco Hydrating Lip Color in 426 Roussy (my spring pink go-to), 444 Gabrielle (a trusty, flattering year-round bold red) and Rouge Allure in 247 Ultraberry for this past winter/early spring (a deep maroon shade that was part of the Holiday 2016 collection)
MASCARA: Marc Jacobs Velvet Noir Major Volume Mascara As a full-time working woman with a solid social calendar, I like to keep my routine simple. Back when I was in college, I bought every nail polish, eyeshadow and lipstick color under the sun–a way for me to channel whatever personality I was feeling that day. But that habit was wasteful: Because I applied each item fewer times, a lot of my makeup (and money) was going in the trash before I could use it up. Now, I stick to a handful of seasonal or year-round favorites, such as five lipsticks per year (classic red, soft pink, deep winter berry, subtle nude and one “wild card” or trendy color) and two blushes (softer pink/peach for spring and summer, deeper mauve for fall and winter).

Also, you may have realized from my list above that I’m a huge fan of Chanel’s products. If you’re interested in trying any of them, I highly recommend getting a free mini makeover from the ladies at the Chanel counter at Saks Fifth Avenue at the Fashion Mall. (They’re now on Instagram @chanelgirlsofindy, so you can see new products and trends as they arrive!)

What are your fave products? Share them in the comments!