alwaysplayingwithmakeup on LTK

alwaysplayingwithmakeup

These are the only makeup brushes I’d repurchase.

I’m talking multi-taskers, power blenders, and the one extra tool that instantly elevates everything.

No fluff, no filler—just the essentials that actually make your makeup better.

If I had to start my brush kit from scratch during the Sephora sale… this would be it.

What are some of your favorites? Did I miss your favorites?

Save it for your next haul—you’ll use every single one.

Brushes
@makeupbymario F2, F2, F4
@patricktabeauty blush brush
@itcosmeticsca complexion #7 and #10
@shiseido eyelash curler

These are the only makeup brushes I’d repurchase. I’m talking multi-taskers, power blenders, and the one extra tool that instantly elevates everything. No fluff, no filler—just the essentials that actually make your makeup better. If I had to start my brush kit from scratch during the Sephora sale… this would be it. What are some of your favorites? Did I miss your favorites? Save it for your next haul—you’ll use every single one. Brushes @makeupbymario F2, F2, F4 @patricktabeauty blush brush @itcosmeticsca complexion 7 and 10 @shiseido eyelash curler

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C’EST VOTRE PINCEAU THÉRAPEUTIQUE!™ Pinceau Ultra Luxe Mega Brush - IT Cosmetics | Sephora | Sephora (CA)

F4 pinceau visage et fond de teint à deux extrémités - MAKEUP BY MARIO | Sephora | Sephora (US)

IT Cosmetics | Sephora (CA)

MAKEUP BY MARIO | Sephora (CA)

MAKEUP BY MARIO | Sephora (CA)

Shiseido | Sephora (CA)

Okay but listen…
when time is tight, this is what I reach for.

No overthinking. No experimenting. Just easy, reliable makeup that helps me get ready faster but still feel polished.

I use these products on me and my clients when we need a quick makeup routine that looks fresh, glowy, and effortless — not rushed.

Because everyday makeup doesn’t have to be complicated to look good 🤍

Save this for busy mornings, school drop-offs, or when you just want your makeup to work.

#LTKbeauty #LTKcanada

Blush on the lips = instant color harmony 💋

It keeps everything soft, wearable, and pulled together — especially if lipstick feels like too much.

Save this for your “makeup feels off” days

#LTKbeauty #LTKcanada

If cool tones usually feel tricky on you, this is the secret: adding a slightly warmer shade through the crease makes grey feel more wearable and more flattering, especially on hooded eyes. You still get the drama of a smokey eye, without the heaviness.

This is a longer, FaceTime-style chat because I wanted to actually explain the why behind the placement.

Would you wear this?

#LTKcanada #LTKbeauty

A blush that works for many people: neutral blush

#LTKbeauty #LTKcanada

Body glow that looks so natural

#LTKcanada #LTKbeauty

Huda beauty does it again 🤩

#LTKcanada #LTKbeauty

Excuse me, this blush quad is 🔥

#LTKbeauty #LTKcanada

Trying new makeup and old faithfuls

#LTKbeauty #LTKcanada

✨ Effortless Beauty: Sephora Sale Edition ✨
If you’re only grabbing a few things from the Sephora sale — make it these. These are my go-to mid-luxury finds that actually deserve the hype and feel worth the splurge every time.
Sephora Collection during the event
• My forever glow-secret base
• Two concealers I reach for on both light and full days
• A liquid eyeshadow that’s basically a filter for your lids
• My everyday lash + liner duo
• Blush and bronzer favorites that define “effortless glow”
• And lip formulas that nail that soft, French-girl vibe

These are definitely worth the investment for me — but did I miss any of your favorites? 👀
What are you thinking of picking up during the sale?

#EffortlessBeauty #SephoraSale #SephoraVIBSale #BeautyEdit #MidLuxuryBeauty

#LTKbeauty #LTKcanada

🌸 My Foolproof Blush Placement Technique (for that seamless, lifted glow) 🌸

Blush can completely transform your face — but only if it’s placed right. After years of trying this on myself and clients, this is the technique that always works:

1️⃣ The brush matters. I swear by the Makeup by Mario F4 brush. One side for foundation (aka my “eraser” if I go too far), the other for bronzer + blush.

2️⃣ Load it right. Tap into a neutral blush first, evenly coat the bristles, then take off the extra on the back of your hand. This keeps placement precise.

3️⃣ Placement = lift. Start higher than you think — above the cheekbone, in line with the eye. Using small tapping circles, I build and blend upward for a natural lift.

4️⃣ Blend seamlessly. Once the blush is down, I diffuse it outward. Then I use the foundation side of my brush to soften edges and make it melt into the skin.

5️⃣ Add dimension. With just the tip of the brush, I pop a brighter pink closer to the under-eye for that fresh, youthful finish.

6️⃣ Concealer comes last. You’ll need way less than you thought. This trick keeps the under-eye smooth, crease-free, and light.

✨ The result? Blush that looks like a soft gradient — no harsh lines, no over-application. Just an effortless flush that lifts your whole face.

Save this for your next makeup routine 💕

#LTKcanada #LTKbeauty

✨ Here’s how I build a flawless, lightweight base that actually lasts all day ✨

Step 1 – Sheer foundation:
I start with a light to medium foundation using the new @patrickta foundation brush for a super light, breathable layer that feels like skin, not makeup.

Step 2 – Contour / Bronzer:
I apply liquid or cream bronzer right after foundation for natural dimension.

Step 3 – Two-blush method:
First, a cream blush for that soft flush, then a powder blush on top to lock it in all day. Placement is key here! (Should I do a more in depth video?)

Step 4 – Set & finish:
I top everything with the @maccosmeticscanada Studio Fix Powder for a velvety, polished finish without heaviness.

💡 Key tip: Thin layers + the right tools = makeup that looks effortless but high-impact. People notice you first—not the makeup.

#LTKcanada #LTKbeauty

The perfect perfume combo that will actually LAST

#LTKcanada #LTKbeauty

Every time I teach a makeup class or do someone’s makeup, I get the same question:

“Wait… why haven’t we done concealer yet?”
⠀
Because saving concealer for last (before powder, always) is elite.

It brings the whole look together—melts everything in, softens the edges, and creates that seamless, diffused finish with just the right amount of structure.
⠀
And without fail, clients always say:
“Wait… I’ve been using way too much concealer.”
Yep. This technique helps you use less product but get way more impact. Soft dimension, a more youthful effect, and no cakey buildup.
⠀
Try it once. You’ll never go back.
#ConcealerHack #EffortlessBeauty #GlowEdit #MakeupTips #SeamlessSkin

How I treat and sleek my hair back

#LTKbeauty #LTKcanada

The best makeup bag, period

#LTKcanada #LTKtravel #LTKbeauty

This glowwwwwe

Day 2 of Rebuilding My Life at 39: The Zoom Out, Explained

#beautyover40 #thisis40ish

#LTKbeauty #LTKcanada

Day 4 of 13 Days of Spring Makeup: Soft wash of color

Neutrals will always have my heart—but a tiny pop of pastel? She’s the cool cousin who shows up once a year and makes everything more fun.

If color feels intimidating, I’ve got you. These are my two favorite low-commitment ways to wear pastels that still feel soft, fresh, and totally wearable:

1. Inner corner switch-up – swap your usual shimmer for a pastel (I used a soft mint!) over a white base to keep it bright.

2. Pastel liner peek – just the tiniest flick of lavender liner can totally open up the eyes.

Would you try either of these? Which one’s more you: the liner or the inner corner glow?

And let me know if you want me to share more ways to wear subtle color—there’s more where this came from.

Using:
@sephoracanada waterproof eye pencil in Snow White (sadly discontinued)
@natashadenona pastel palette
@makebeautyofficial liquid eye liner

#springmakeup #pastelmakeup #effortlessbeauty #softglam #springbeautyedit #makeupideas

If you love an effortless, glowy makeup look, these are the products that work for you, not against you. No fluff, no filler—just my ride-or-dies for the Sephora sale.

These are the ones I’ve repurchased with my own money, time and time again. If I’m sharing it, you know it’s that good. ✨

Ok now tell me what you’re thinking of picking up 💃🤌🏼✨

Details on the sale:

The Sephora Spring Savings Event starts tomorrow, here are the details:

Rouge Members: April 4 through April 14, 2025
VIB Members: April 8 through April 14, 2025
Insider Members: April 8 through April 14, 2025

Save this for your next Sephora trip during the sale!

#LTKbeauty

A makeup SPATULA to apply foundation?

At first glance, this spatula brush from @itcosmeticsca looked really intimidating

The market is SO saturated with so many brushes, but what do they all do?

After playing with it for over a month, I can confidently say this brush is a total game-changer if you love a natural finish: second skin feeling.

it’s the perfect tool to avoid a heavy, cakey look and create that next-to-skin feel.

The trick?

✨ Apply evenly, use just the right amount of foundation on the brush, and you’ll get a flawless, fresh finish without looking older or too made up.

Trust me, it’s worth the hype! 🌟

Loving K-beauty inspired products, are you?

Would you try it?
#LTKwatchnow #LTKvideo

#LTKbeauty

The Parisian blurred lip: soft, effortless, and perfectly undone. ✨ No harsh lines, no overlining—just the right formula and a little smudging magic.

Using:
violette_fr bisou balm shade sucette
givenchybeauty le rouge sheer Velvet matte lipstick shade 16
merit limited edition holiday blur lipstick (please bring this formula back)
maccosmeticscanada powder kiss liquid lip shade elegance is earned
anastasiabeverlyhills lip velvet liquid lipstick shade rosy mauve

Which one would you wear?

#ltkvideo #ltkwatchnow

#LTKbeauty #LTKcanada

Makeup tips that altered my brain chemistry ✨
If you have dry skin and feel like your powdered highlighters are just collecting dust in the winter… don’t let them go to waste! My friend Virginie showed me this trick, and it’s genius: apply your powder highlight under your foundation for the most natural, lit-from-within glow—without drying out your skin.

Since trying this, my glowy winter makeup has been next level. Have you ever tried this trick?

#ltkwatchnow #ltkvideo

#LTKcanada #LTKbeauty

🚨 If your concealer looks ashy, here’s why—and how to fix it! 🚨 SAVE this to try later

The mistake? Skipping color correction when you need it. If you have blue or purple tones under your eyes, a bright concealer alone will only enhance the darkness instead of covering it.

✨ Here’s what to do:
✔️ If your under-eyes are more purple, use a yellow corrector.
✔️ If they’re more blue, go for peach or orange.
✔️ Apply just a little—too much can create another color issue.
✔️ Once neutralized, then apply your brightening concealer.

The result? No more ashy under-eyes—just a smooth, bright, natural finish. Try it and tell me if you see the difference! 💛 #ltkwatchnow #ltkvideo

#LTKbeauty #LTKcanada

Blush, glow, and bronze —all in one step for an effortless beauty hack. ✨

The Armani Glow Enhancer (Shade 11) is that effortless flush, glow, and warmth all in one—no glitter, just pure radiance.

Perfect for busy mornings, no-makeup days, or when you just want that fresh, radiant look with zero effort.

It’s also perfect for balancing a statement lip or bold eye. You can even mix it with foundation for an all-over glow.

Let me know if you want to see that in action! ⬇️

One product, endless possibilities ✨
#ltkvideo #ltkwatchnow

#LTKbeauty #LTKcanada

That effortless summer glow—made ours ✨

A natural, bronzy base, a hint of red blush for that fresh, sun-kissed flush, and the easiest way to do a soft metallic eye without it feeling too much. Plus, a neutral lip with a touch of blush to tie it all together.

Are you into the fresh but make it polished summer vibe? Let me know! ⬇️ #GlowEdit #ltkvideo #ltkwatchnow

#LTKbeauty #LTKcanada

That effortlessly chic, ‘I woke up like this’ Parisian beauty? It’s all about fresh skin, soft definition, and a perfectly blurred lip. ✨

Bonus, you need under 10 products

Violette and Jeanne Dumas are always the vibe when I think of French girl makeup. They just exude confidence and effortless beauty.

I personally always feel fresh and radiant when I do a simple look like this.

What do you think—would you try this look?

If you want me to send you the entire product list, comment EFFORTLESS and I will send it to you.

Makeup used:
Foundation - MUFE hydra glow
CONCEALER - Charlotte tilbury color corrector
GLOW/BLUSH/BRONZE - Armani glow enhancer
EYESHADOW- simihaze bronzer
POWDER - kosas pressed powder
CONCEALER - Lisa Eldridge pin point concealer
MASCARA - YSL lash lash
LIP - ABH lip velvet liquid lip

MAKEUP BRUSHES USED IN ORDER:
Hourglass foundation brush
BK Beauty concealer brush
BK beauty blending brush
BK beauty x Nikki powder brush
BK beauty smudging brush

#LTKwatchnow

#LTKcanada #LTKbeauty

Hero Product Alert 🚨

The Mario Soft sculpt serum Bronzing Drops will give you that just-back-from-vacation glow without any effort. Perfect for all skin types—oily, dry, or somewhere in between.

And for my extra dry skin friends, the Skin Enhancer by Makeup by Mario has your back. These are the ultimate bronzing game-changers! ✨

#LTKwatchnow

#LTKbeauty #LTKcanada

Red blush might seem intimidating, but it’s actually the most natural flush your skin can have. ✨ It’s all about using the right formula and application! Watch how cream vs. powder transforms the finish—are you team dewy or airbrushed? Let me know below! 👇🏼❤️

#LTKwatchnow

#LTKcanada #LTKbeauty

Five products, five minutes—that’s all you need for a fresh, polished Zoom-ready look. ✨ Starting with a strong brow game (because, priorities), then adding glow, coverage, and color—all from one palette. Wait ‘til you see how easy this is! What’s your go-to ‘I have no time’ essential? 👇🏼
#ltkwatchnow

#LTKcanada #LTKbeauty

Sabrina Carpenter Blush 🌸💕✨

Wearing the new armani beauty Luminous Silk Cheek tint in the shades:

🩰 53 Bold Pink
🌺 62 Delicate Mauve

The formula very lightweight and surprisingly pigmented. Leaves a nice luminous finish on the cheeks without feeling sticky, it actually completely dries down.

Will you be picking a shade up?

#LTKbeauty #LTKcanada

I’m always on the hunt for makeup that makes life easier—especially on those hectic mornings or when I’m rushing out the door.

Something quick, effortless, and actually good.

Today, I’m trying a new shade from the Armani Eye Tint called tobacco

What I love?
✨ easy to blend
✨ long-lasting
✨ perfect for a one-and-done eye look

What’s your go-to one-and-done shadow? Anything I need to add to my top-shelf lineup?

#LTKbeauty

The glow is unreal ✨👌🏼

Using westmanatelier liquid super loaded all-over illuminator drops

When I posted my blush as bronzer post, I kept getting questions about my skin base. I thought it was the CT glow stick but I actually didn’t use that one for that makeup look. The glow is all thanks to these drops that made my skin glow like crazy. If you have dry skin you will be obsessed! If you have oily skin, skip the moisturizer and just use

#LTKbeauty

Cool undertone besties, let’s test these out! 💕

Trying She’s Seductive & She Goes to the Gym from the new @patricktabeauty blush launch—plus, putting two techniques to the test: Cream First vs. the Patrick Ta Way (cream over powder).

Which shade are you loving more? And did you pick one up? Let’s chat! 💬✨

#LTKbeauty

The lip combo I forgot about… and now can’t stop wearing. 💋✨

You know when you rediscover something in your stash and wonder why you ever stopped using it? That’s exactly what happened here. This lip liner + balm duo is the definition of effortless—hydrating, forgiving, and so easy you can apply it without a mirror.

Bonus? The balm leaves behind the prettiest pink stain, so even when it wears off, your lips still have that fresh, flushed look. No harsh lines, no fuss, just… perfect.

BRB, making sure these never get buried in my collection again. Have you rediscovered any old faves lately? 👀👇

#LTKbeauty