I’ve been posting a lot more beauty content on Instagram (@marinapratt_) lately and the response has been really positive with multiple requests to share the products I am using and how I use them. I figured a blog post was in order to share more detail of the products I use daily and why I love them:

Face

Laura Mercier “Prime Canvas” primer

I was recently re-converted to face primers after a long hiatus when I suddenly realised… they actually do work. For years I was using foundation and powders that would eventually oxidise throughout the day leaving my face looking patchy and I completely forgot that a primer would fix this. I decided to purchase this Laura Mercier primer because every review I read toted how light and non-greasy it was and made makeup last all day. I was curious to put it to the test and I’m glad I did!

Fenty Pro Filt’r Hydrating Foundation

This was a total fluke buy. I was on the market for a new foundation that was easy to blend, didn’t clog my pores and lasts all day (not too much to ask, I think?). I was out with friends when one of them suggested Fenty and I bought it on the spot. Very impulsive, but I did the right thing in the end.

This foundation’s blend-ability is incredible. I only use my fingers (I used to use a sponge or Beauty Blender) and with the warmth of my fingers it blends like a dream. I don’t even need to use concealer because the coverage is so buildable. I’ve also noticed the hydration ingredients have been helping with my overall complexion as I’ve been looking more glowy even without makeup. The lasting power is amazing (especially with the Laura Mercier primer) and a little bit goes a long way so my tube will last a long time. A worthwhile investment!

MAC Mineralise Skinfinish

I admit, I bought this out of nostalgia as I used to love MAC products but it just isn’t the same. It does the job though; a light coverage mineral powder that sets my makeup.

Hourglass Ambient Lighting palette

Okay this is an absolutely fave. If you have been pondering whether Hourglass products are worth the price point - the answer is YES!! I can’t get over how good the products are. My palette is a discontinued limited edition set from last year’s Christmas but every year they launch a palette with similar shades. I usually use the top 3 highlighters to highlight my cheekbones, the bronzer for contour and depending on the rest of my face I decide which shade of blush to use. The filtering effect on these powders is amazing and doesn't make you look shiny or glittery like cheaper highlighters can do.

Eyes

Technic Eyeshadow Primer

I admit I bought this at the beginning of the pandemic and was bored… not my proudest moment BUT this is a great, affordable primer that came in a pack of two on Amazon. It’s a simple step - I add this before my eyeshadow to prevent creasing.

Urban Decay Naked Honey eyeshadow palette

This is the only eyeshadow palette I own at the moment and I’m committed to keeping it that way. I think I used to have 10+ palettes which is just insane..

I don’t wear layers of eyeshadow everyday but I usually add a swipe of golden colour to make my hazel eyes pop. It also just adds nice definition to my lids. My favourite colours in the palette are Amber, Golden, Hive, Drip and Sting. I will often use a mix of Hive and Sting for my eyebrows too.

Kiko eyelash primer

This isn’t an essential step but I’m kind of lost without it. I have thin lashes and this primer just livens them up.

Hourglass “Unlocked” Mascara

As much as I praised Hourglass earlier, this mascara was a miss for me. It does a great job but the price point ($27 I believe) is just a bit outrageous. I think I was feeling a bit boujiee buying this when I did lol. Makes for great, black lashes though!

Lips

Fresh Sugar Lip Balm

A forever favourite. It’s so moisturising and that’s just about all I need!

Bite Lip Crayons (various colours)

I don’t wear lipstick every day but when I do - Bite Beauty is my go to. They’re vegan, cruelty free and a clean-ingredient beauty brand that works. Plus, they’re Canadian! #represent

I use various colours from “Cranberry” when I want a bold, red lip or “Glace” which is beige-pink that gives me the “not really wearing lipstick” look.

NARS Lip Oil in “Laguna”

Omg. This was my introduction to lip oil and I’m hooked. It’s a lip moisturiser and lip gloss in one. #love

It has a subtle bronze tone to it which I feel amplifies the shine of lips and looks really nice on film/camera. :)