Makeup does not have to break the bank, it is a statement that is said by many but what does that actually mean?
With the right approach, you can look stunning while saving money and reducing clutter.
The key? Minimalism.
It is all about focusing on what works for you and ditching or replacing whatever does not.
Let us dive into how you can simplify your makeup routine, save money, and still look fabulous every day.
Why Minimalism Is the Answer
If you’re constantly overwhelmed by the endless stream of new products on social media, trust me you’re not alone. Beauty influencers and brands make it seem like you need a 20-step routine and a new product every week to achieve the perfect look. But the truth is, less can indeed be more when it comes to makeup.
Minimalism in makeup doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice creativity or self-expression.
Instead, it’s about:
Focusing on your goals: Ask yourself - Am I aiming for bold eye looks or natural glam?
Streamlining your collection: Keep products that serve multiple purposes in your kit, if you do not have the budget try to focus on staple products rather than trendy products.
Saving time and money: Fewer products means faster routines and less spending.
Step 1: Define Your Makeup Goal
Before decluttering your makeup bag, ask yourself: What’s the purpose of my routine?
1. Creative Expression
If you love experimenting with bold looks choose to focus on affordable products that let you play around. Some essential products include:
A versatile eyeshadow palette with bold, bright colors and a few neutral shades.
Eyeliners in various colors for graphic looks.
A reliable mascara to make your eyes pop.
2. Everyday Glam
For a more natural, "clean girl" look, stick to base products that enhance your features without looking heavy. Your makeup kit might include:
A BB cream or lightweight foundation for even skin tone for light coverage.
Concealer for targeted coverage.
Mascara and an eyebrow pencil for definition.
Cream blush that doubles as a lip tint or vice versa.
Step 2: Declutter Your Makeup Bag
It’s time to Marie Kondo your collection aka de-hoard your life
What to Keep:
Products you use regularly.
Multi-purpose items like cream blush, lip products or palettes.
Affordable, quality staples that deliver results.
What to Skip:
Products you have not touched in months.
Shades or trends that don’t suit your style.
Excess duplicates (like for example- how many nude lipsticks do you really need?).
💡 Tip: If you’re hesitant to let go of a product from your routine, set a deadline. If you haven’t used a product within 3 months, it’s time to let it go.
Step 3: Build Your Minimalist Kit
Here’s what your ideal minimalist kit might look like:
1. Base Products:
BB cream or tinted moisturizer for light coverage.
A concealer that matches your skin tone.
Translucent powder to set your base (optional).
2. Eye Essentials:
Neutral eyeshadow palette for versatile looks.
Eyeliner (black or brown for everyday, colorful for fun).
A lengthening and volumizing mascara.
3. Multi-Use Products:
Lip products or eyeshadows can have multiple uses.
A highlighter that works for both cheeks and eyes.
4. Tools:
A reliable dollar store beauty sponge for blending base products.
A small set of brushes for eyes and face (or for a more budget friendly version- your fingers are great at blending eyeshadow!).
Step 4: Embrace Multi-Use Products
Minimalism thrives on versatility. Instead of buying multiple products, focus on items that can do double—or even triple—duty.
My Favorite Multi-Use Product:
A neutral-toned eyeshadow palette is a game-changer. Here is how I use mine:
Eyeshadow: Obviously it is perfect for creating versatile eye looks.
Highlighter: Use shimmery shades on your cheekbones and inner corners of your eyes to bring out a glow from within
Blush: Warm peach or reddish tones double as blush.
Contour: Cool-toned browns can be used for subtle sculpting.
Tip: Play around with your current products and experiment with using them in new ways. You’ll be surprised how much you can do with what you already have!
Step 5: Say No to Trends
Not every beauty trend is worth your time—or your money. It’s easy to get caught up in the hype of the latest “must-have” product, but most of these trends fade quickly.
What You Can Skip:
Baking Powder: Unless you’re a professional makeup artist, it’s not necessary for everyday makeup.
Bronzer and Contour Kits: A simple blush can add just as much warmth and dimension.
Setting Sprays: For daily use, a good setting powder or even a spritz of facial mist can suffice.
💡 Pro tip: Try skipping steps like baking, contouring, or using a setting spray for a week. You might be surprised to find you don’t miss them at all!
Step 6: Invest Wisely
Sometimes, spending a bit more on the right product is worth it—especially for base products.
How to Invest Smartly:
High-quality foundation or concealer: Look for travel sizes to save money and use them only for special uses (or collect samples of high end brands).
Multi-use products: Cream blushes, tinted moisturizers, or all-in-one palettes are great investments.
Affordable dupes: Do your research and find drugstore alternatives for high-end products.
💡 Pro tip: For special occasions, mix your high-end foundation with a lightweight BB cream to stretch its usage.
Step 7: Simplify Your Tools
Makeup brushes and tools can get expensive, but you don’t need an entire arsenal.
Budget-Friendly Tools:
Use your fingers for blending eyeshadow or cream products—they’re surprisingly effective!
Invest in one good beauty sponge for base application.
Look for affordable brush sets from drugstore brands.
Step 8: Where to Save (and Where to Splurge)
Knowing when to save and when to splurge is key to minimalist beauty.
Save On:
Eyeshadow palettes (affordable options often perform just as well).
Lipsticks (drugstore brands offer great quality).
Dupes for trending products.
Splurge On:
Foundation or concealer for a flawless base.
Skincare essentials—your makeup only looks as good as your skin.
Final Thoughts
Minimalism is more than just about saving money—
it should be about simplifying your life,
focusing on quality over quantity,
and truly enjoying the products you own.
By streamlining your makeup routine and embracing multi-use products, you’ll save time, space, and money while still slaying every look.
Share your favorite budget-friendly products or tips in the comments below!
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