Glow Up: Skincare & Makeup for Looking Great and Feeling Great
The motto here at Style by Mads is “Look Great, Feel Great.” While I usually talk about this in relation to clothes, it extends beyond just what you wear—makeup and skincare are just as important. When I think about looking and feeling my best, it’s not just about the perfect outfit; it’s about how glowing skin and the right makeup can elevate your entire look and boost your confidence.
I want to highlight some of my absolute favourite skincare and makeup products that not only make me feel more put together but also enhance the way I show up, whether I’m stepping out in a chic everyday look or dressed up for a special occasion. Pairing the right products with an amazing outfit is a total game-changer—it’s all about achieving that balance between feeling confident inside and out.
Ember Wellness - Sculpt & Glow Bar
I'll admit, when I first saw this product, I wasn’t quite sure how it worked. But after learning how to use it at an Ember event, it completely changed my routine. It works similarly to a bar of soap—you run it under water to get it slightly damp, then apply it to the areas where you would normally contour (cheekbones, jawline, and a little on the forehead). It gives me the most natural, “glow from within” look. I use it at the end of my skincare routine, and it creates the perfect base for the rest of my makeup!
Ember Wellness - Cloud Gua Sha
I've been using a Gua Sha for a while, but I didn’t realize how much a high-quality tool could elevate the experience. I used to have a cheap one from Amazon, but once I got the Ember Gua Sha, I could feel the difference. Not only is gua-shaing incredibly soothing, but it also de-puffs my face in the morning and helps "chisel" my features.
I especially love the Ember tool because its ridges fit perfectly along my face, making it more effective. It's definitely worth the splurge for anyone serious about their skincare routine.
Salty Face - Tanning Water & Brush
Whenever I look in the mirror and feel a little "bleh," I reach for this product. I’ve been using face tanning serums since they blew up on social media during COVID—Isle of Paradise was the first one I tried. But I always found the process frustrating. I’d wake up with tanning product all over my hands, and my face wouldn’t even be evenly blended. You could see the harsh line where the tan stopped at my hairline. It was such a mess!
Then I discovered Salty Face Tanning Water and their application brush, and it was a total game-changer. It gives a beautiful, natural glow using clean ingredients that are gentle on the skin. The best part? No more orange hands or weird hairline streaks! As we head into the winter months, this product is like sunshine in a bottle, giving an instant confidence boost.
Rhode - Pocket Blush
This product is no secret—I’m sure you’ve seen it all over your social media, and for good reason. It's honestly one of the best blushes I've ever tried. I only recently got into blush because I never liked how it looked on my skin. It always felt like it looked like I was heading to my class at Clown University. But this blush is a game-changer. It's so easy to blend—just a few dots on your cheeks, tap it in with your fingers, and you’re good to go. It’s perfect for blush beginners or if, like me, you’re after a natural, glowing look.
L’Oreal Paris - Lash Paradise
I've been using this product since it launched in spring 2017, and it’s truly my desert island pick. If I could only use one product for the rest of my life, it would be this mascara. If you're into voluminous, full lashes, this is the one for you. I've had so many people ask if I'm wearing false lashes when I have it on—it’s truly my lash paradise!
My one rule before leaving the house is that I have to be wearing mascara. It completes my whole look and makes me feel put together, and this is the one I’ll be using forever.
Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm
This is another product I'm sure you've come across—it's no secret, and like the blush, it's popular for a reason. The Butter Balm in "Vanilla Beige" is my everyday go-to lip balm. I’m not a fan of matte lips—I can’t stand the dry feeling—and I love a little tint. This balm delivers on both! It’s super hydrating, adds a hint of color, and leaves my lips feeling soft and smooth.
If you already have one shade, consider this your sign to treat yourself to another! Sephora even offers a 4-pack of minis, so you can try out different colours and toss them in all your bags.
As a long-time makeup and skincare lover, I've discovered countless products that elevate our beauty routines and boost confidence. Whether you’re getting ready for a special occasion or just want to feel fabulous every day, these essentials are here to help you shine.
So, as you tie up your favorite outfit in a gorgeous bow, remember that the right makeup and skincare can truly transform your look. If you’re looking for specific recommendations, I’m here to help! Here’s to feeling confident and beautiful every day!
Talk soon,
Mads
