What's in My Makeup Bag? Tinted Moisturizer

In 2015, I decided to go natural. I mean, no weave, no red meat, no birth control pills natural. I'd found out I had uterine fibroids and the estrogen and progesterone in birth control pills could contribute to their growth. By that time, I'd been taking the pills for about fifteen years and I had wanted to stop taking them anyway because of other side effects I was experiencing.

What I didn’t know was that the pills were controlling my acne as well, but within a few weeks it was very clear. I dealt with the hormonal acne for a year before I took my aunt's advice and went to a dermatologist. It was affecting my self-esteem and I was over it. Nothing I was doing was working. My dermatologist put me on a six-month isotretinoin program and gave me suggestions for makeup when I griped about his directive to stop using the Bobbi Brown foundation stick I'd been using for years. He told me it contributed to the acne breakouts and that I should try an oil-free tinted moisturizer. The isotretinoin worked for me, but it does not mean I never get pimples on my face, so I still use the tinted moisturizer.

I’d never heard of tinted moisturizers, but I was excited to go to Sephora to try one out. I’m excited to go to Sephora for anything! Lol. I made my way there a week later and they conducted a shade finder assessment to find some tinted moisturizers that would be perfect for my skin tone. The beauty advisor recommended I try Laura Mercier’s Oil-Free Tinted Moisturizer in Caramel. She blended some into my skin and I loved it, it looked so natural.

What is a Tinted Moisturizer?

Tinted moisturizers are skin-softening products that contain a slight makeup tint to cover imperfections. These lightweight lotions serve double-duty by offering hydration along with just a hint of radiance or sheer cover (L’Oreal Paris).

The Benefits of Tinted Moisturizers:

• Good for acne prone skin because it’s oil free

• Melts into your skin

• Light coverage

• Doesn't block your pores

• Contains SPF for protection against sun damage

• Moisturizes and doesn't dry skin out

It's a staple in my makeup bag because it’s perfect light coverage for my every day makeup look. When I need full coverage or a makeup up artist is doing my face, I use a regular foundation. I especially love it because it looks natural and even if I wear it several days during the week, I don't get acne breakouts like I used to with my foundation stick. If it’s too shiny, I apply a lightwieght translucent powder on top of it and press it into my skin with a beauty blender.

What are some of your favorite makeup items? Tell me in the comments below.