<ul class="summary-list"><li><keyword id="12466810" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="kristin-cavallari" source="Orion">Kristin Cavallari</keyword> recently spoke with Glamour about skin care, <keyword id="11915641" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="beauty" source="Orion">beauty</keyword> standards, and more.</li><li>She said she doesn't wash her <keyword id="11993268" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="makeup" source="Orion">makeup</keyword> sponges often because she thinks they work better dirty.</li></ul><p>After nearly two decades on TV, <a href="https://insider.com/category/kristin-cavallari">Kristin Cavallari</a> knows a thing or two about makeup. But, like many of us, she doesn't follow every beauty rule out there.</p><p>The "Very Cavallari" star recently spoke with Glamour <a href="https://www.glamour.com/story/kristin-cavallari-big-beauty-questions">about beauty standards, her skin-care routine, and more</a>. When asked if there are any beauty rules that she thinks are "B.S.," Cavallari said she isn't convinced that you need to wash makeup sponges as frequently as recommended.</p><p>"The beauty blender face sponges - obviously we're supposed to wash those frequently, but I don't really wash mine that often because I actually think that when it's not clean, it helps blend better," she told the publication. "Maybe that's disgusting, but ..."</p><blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:800; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px); data.width~800;"><div style="padding:8px;"><div style="background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:62.4537037037% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;"><div style="background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAABGdBTUEAALGPC/xhBQAAAAFzUkdCAK7OHOkAAAAMUExURczMzPf399fX1+bm5mzY9AMAAADiSURBVDjLvZXbEsMgCES5/P8/t9FuRVCRmU73JWlzosgSIIZURCjo/ad+EQJJB4Hv8BFt+IDpQoCx1wjOSBFhh2XssxEIYn3ulI/6MNReE07UIWJEv8UEOWDS88LY97kqyTliJKKtuYBbruAyVh5wOHiXmpi5we58Ek028czwyuQdLKPG1Bkb4NnM+VeAnfHqn1k4+GPT6uGQcvu2h2OVuIf/gWUFyy8OWEpdyZSa3aVCqpVoVvzZZ2VTnn2wU8qzVjDDetO90GSy9mVLqtgYSy231MxrY6I2gGqjrTY0L8fxCxfCBbhWrsYYAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;"></div></div><p style="margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CVJHMt9vQqN" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank"></a></p> <p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by Kristin Cavallari (@kristincavallari)<time style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;" datetime=""></time></p></div></blockquote><p>Experts previously told Insider that you should <a href="https://www.insider.com/why-you-should-clean-cosmetics-during-coronavirus-outbreak-2020-3">wash your makeup tools approximately once per week</a>. Sometimes, it's also recommended to sanitize your actual makeup as well.</p><p>Though the Uncommon James founder didn't specify exactly how often or rarely she washes her sponges, it's likely that Cavallari's tools aren't all that dirty to begin with.</p><p>After all, she told Glamour that she prefers "the no-makeup makeup" trend, and looking both "natural" and "fresh."</p><p>"I wish that people would show more of their natural selves on Instagram," she said when asked what beauty standards she would change if possible. "Having kids too, it really scares me."</p><p>"I think it's hard as it is being a kid and growing up," she continued. "You're insecure, you're self-conscious, and then you throw all this social media on top of it and all of these unrealistic expectations and we're just setting our children up for failure. It's a really hard time to be growing up. I'm empathetic to all of the kids right now."</p><p>Insider's <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/insider-reviews-expertise-in-product-reviews" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reviews Team</a> tests the <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/best-beauty-blender-makeup-sponge">best makeup sponges and blenders</a>. Check out some of our favorites. <br /><br /></p><ul><li><strong>Best makeup sponge overall: </strong><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/reviews/out?platform=browser&amp;postSource=bi%7C5b0f0ff11ae66244008b4939&amp;sc=false&amp;sessionid=16359487358343zlzlhfj&amp;type=ALREADY-AFFILIATE-LINK-NOT-AMAZON&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fclick.linksynergy.com%2Fdeeplink%3Fid%3DEHFxW6yx8Uo%26mid%3D2417%26u1%3Dbiipgf053118bestbeautyblenders%7Cxid%3Afr1635948776403hha%26murl%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.sephora.com%252Fproduct%252Fbeautyblender-P228913%253FskuId%253D1151869%2526icid2%253Dproducts%252520grid%253Ap228913&amp;u1=1635948772706aptukm2tz&amp;xid=fr1635948776403hhaz&amp;xid=fr1635948776403hha" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Original BeautyBlender</a></li><li><strong>Best budget makeup sponge: </strong><a href="https://amzn.to/2kChVxt" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge</a></li><li><strong>Best makeup sponge for switching between products: </strong><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/reviews/out?platform=browser&amp;postSource=bi%7C5b0f0ff11ae66244008b4939&amp;sc=false&amp;sessionid=1635948735834e63cz969&amp;type=ALREADY-AFFILIATE-LINK-NOT-AMAZON&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fclick.linksynergy.com%2Fdeeplink%3Fid%3DEHFxW6yx8Uo%26mid%3D2417%26u1%3Dbiipgf053118bestbeautyblenders%7Cxid%3Afr1635948776403fjb%26murl%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.sephora.com%252Fproduct%252Fprecision-makeup-sponge-100-P54487984&amp;u1=1635948772706axz3afngv&amp;xid=fr1635948776403fjbv&amp;xid=fr1635948776403fjb" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Fenty Beauty Precision Makeup Sponge</a></li></ul>

Kristin Cavallari says she doesn't wash her makeup sponges because she thinks they work better when they're 'not clean'

<div type="image" title="rea ann silva.JPG" height="1128" width="1500" msid="78898086" hostid="261"></div><ul class="summary-list"><li>Rea Ann Silva is the creator of the iconic <keyword id="10178970" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="beautyblender">Beautyblender</keyword> sponge. She started her career as a celebrity <keyword id="29496" type="PERSON" weightage="60" keywordseo="Makeup">makeup</keyword> artist, and now works as Beautyblender's president and CEO.</li><li>Silva told Insider she's extremely proud of the fact that she created a new category of cosmetic products, an incredibly rare feat in the <keyword id="6354629" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="beauty">beauty</keyword> industry.</li><li>She also described Beautyblender as a "chapter" in her life, and explained that she has numerous other interests — including encouraging people to vote in the upcoming presidential election.</li><li><strong><strong>Silva is on Insider's list of Luminaries:</strong></strong> 25 women pushing boundaries and accomplishing extraordinary feats. Check out the full list <a href="https://www.insider.com/the-luminaries-25-people-accomplishing-extraordinary-goals-2020-10">here</a>.</li></ul><p>Whether you're a professional makeup artist or a casual cosmetics fan, you've probably encountered the Beautyblender. </p><p>You might, however, be less familiar with Rea Ann Silva, the iconic pink sponge's creator.</p><p>Silva invented the product while working as a television makeup artist in the early 2000s. It's since become one of the most recognizable beauty tools on the planet, <a href="https://www.whowhatwear.com/beauty-blender">with at least 17 sold every minute</a>. In recent years, the Beautyblender brand has also expanded to sell foundations, primers, cleansers, and more. </p><p>According to Silva, it's her passion for beauty that's pushed the company so far — not her business skills.</p><p>"I am not your normal beauty executive, founder, or CEO," Silva told Insider. "I'm a makeup artist."</p><h2><strong>Silva never intended to work in the beauty industry</strong></h2><p>A Los Angeles native, Silva got her start at California's Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising.</p><p>"I wanted to become a designer until I realized that my favorite part of my fashion studies by far was sketching," <a href="https://thespotlyte.com/1805213/beautyblender-rea-ann-silva-interview/">she told Spotlyte</a> in 2019.</p><p>Silva worked at a makeup counter after leaving school. In the 1990s, she became a prominent TV makeup artist, working on <a href="https://beautyblender.com/blogs/beauty-101/meet-beautyblender-founder-rea-ann-silva">shows like "Moesha."</a> She also toured with musicians like Brandy, New Kids on the Block, Dr. Dre, Tupac Shakur, and more. These roles helped Silva — who is Mexican, Portuguese, and Irish — become known for her artistry working with people of color, according to Spotlyte.</p><p>By the early 2000s, Silva was back working on TV as a makeup artist for the UPN series "Girlfriends." Because the show was filmed in HD, where airbrushed makeup looks the most natural, Silva needed a way to touch up actors' faces without carrying the entire airbrush compressor. </p><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/7vOFu7I426c" frameborder="0"></iframe><p>Brushes wouldn't work because they caused streaks, and powder products didn't mix well with liquid makeup. This inspired Silva to decide one day to cut the edges off a wedge sponge, and the Beautyblender was born.</p><p>"I didn't look at Beautyblender as a global big brand in the beginning," Silva told Insider. "I was a professional makeup artist with a challenge, and Beautyblender was my solution to that challenge."</p><h2><strong>Beautyblender was the first makeup sponge of its kind, with one rounded end and a pointed, triangle-shaped tip</strong></h2><p>Silva couldn't have predicted that her on-set invention would become a global phenomenon years later — and that's likely for the best.</p><p>"I like to say that ignorance is bliss because had I known how difficult it is to accomplish this, I might have been too daunted to actually take that first step," Silva said. "But I was passionate, and being a person who didn't envision a big brand from the beginning made things easier for me to digest bite by bite."</p><p>While it's difficult for Silva to pinpoint her biggest accomplishments since launching Beautyblender, she's especially proud of the fact that her sponges are made in the US.</p><p>"We're able to make Beautyblender here in America and keep Americans employed," she said.</p><p>Silva is also extremely proud of the fact that she's created a new category of cosmetic products — an rare feat in the saturated, <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/beauty-multibillion-industry-trends-future-2019-7">multi-billion dollar beauty industry</a>.</p><div type="image" title="beautyblender creator" height="771" width="1028" msid="78897139" hostid="261"></div><p>Since Beautyblender became a household name a few years ago, countless brands have launched their own sponges in similar shapes and materials. But it doesn't bother Silva.</p><p>"Some people look at the whole market of what you would call knock-offs or fake Beautyblenders — even done by the most legitimate brands — as something that would be detrimental to the health of my business," Silva said. "Fortunately, we continue to thrive and grow, which gives me the ability to look at the whole concept of people copying me with a different lens than maybe another brand would."</p><p>"I call them my fans, and I look at this whole category now as Beautyblender-inspired products, and people who just love it so much that they want a piece of it," she added. </p><h2><strong>Silva has big plans for the future, and sage advice for young entrepreneurs</strong></h2><p>Many aspects of Silva's career mirror that of <a href="https://twitter.com/justbobbibrown">Bobbi Brown</a>, who launched a namesake cosmetics company after becoming one of the most famous makeup artists in the world. </p><p>"Bobbi Brown was and still is very inspirational to me because she's been able to recreate herself a couple times," she said, pointing out <a href="https://evolution18.com/">Brown's new health-related venture</a>. "For me, that's what life is all about." </p><p>Now the tables have turned. As young makeup artists and entrepreneurs enter the industry, it's Silva who they'll be looking up to. When asked what advice she would give them, the Beautyblender founder said those entering the beauty space should do so with thick skin and "a good set of morals and ethics."</p><div type="image" title="beautyblender" height="1666" width="2222" msid="78897143" hostid="261"></div><p>"With the spread of technology, the barrier to enter the industry is so much lower than it used to be — and I don't mean that in a negative way," she said. "We have this ability to influence and impress with the tap of a keyboard."</p><p>"You have to have a really thick skin, and try not to give into the temptation of fighting back, or trying to justify everything," Silva continued. "The truth of the matter is that everybody has access to you now, and not everybody is going to be happy for you. It's up to you to set the tone of your business."</p><h2><strong>At the end of the day, there's a lot more to Silva than pink sponges and makeup</strong></h2><p>Silva describes her job as "amazing." Still, she sees Beautyblender as a "chapter" in her life, rather than the whole story.</p><p>"I live and breathe beauty, but when I look at my life, it's more than just the industry and my business," she said. "My life as a human being is the much bigger picture."</p><p>"I think I'm successful at Beautyblender because I have a passion for it," she said. "But I have passions for a lot of other things too." She said one of her biggest hopes for the country is that people will vote in the upcoming presidential election. </p><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" style="background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:800; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px); data.width~800;"><div style="padding:8px;"><div style="background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:62.4537037037% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;"><div style="background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAABGdBTUEAALGPC/xhBQAAAAFzUkdCAK7OHOkAAAAMUExURczMzPf399fX1+bm5mzY9AMAAADiSURBVDjLvZXbEsMgCES5/P8/t9FuRVCRmU73JWlzosgSIIZURCjo/ad+EQJJB4Hv8BFt+IDpQoCx1wjOSBFhh2XssxEIYn3ulI/6MNReE07UIWJEv8UEOWDS88LY97kqyTliJKKtuYBbruAyVh5wOHiXmpi5we58Ek028czwyuQdLKPG1Bkb4NnM+VeAnfHqn1k4+GPT6uGQcvu2h2OVuIf/gWUFyy8OWEpdyZSa3aVCqpVoVvzZZ2VTnn2wU8qzVjDDetO90GSy9mVLqtgYSy231MxrY6I2gGqjrTY0L8fxCxfCBbhWrsYYAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;"></div></div><p style="margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CGh3seZH5zr" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">The time has finally come!#vote </a></p> <p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by  Rea Ann Silva (@reaannsilva) on Oct 19, 2020 at 7:55am PDT<time style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;" datetime="2020-10-19T14:55:26+00:00">Oct 19, 2020 at 7:55am PDT</time></p></div></blockquote><p>Regardless of the election's outcome, though, Silva has hope for the future.</p><p>"I feel like so many people in the last election decided to not vote because they weren't happy with their choices, but not voting is a choice that has repercussions," she said. "I wish people realized that they do matter."</p><ul class="read-more-links"><li></li><li>Read more:</li><li><a href="https://www.insider.com/the-luminaries-25-people-accomplishing-extraordinary-goals-2020-10">The Luminaries: 25 women pushing boundaries and accomplishing extraordinary feats</a></li><li><a href="https://www.insider.com/luminaries-jackie-aina-beauty-inclusive-2020-10">Jackie Aina has taken the beauty industry by storm. The YouTube star isn't stopping there.</a><p><a href="https://www.insider.com/luminaries-martha-hoover-changing-restaurant-industry-2020-10">Former sex crimes prosecutor Martha Hoover opened a restaurant in 1989 with zero industry experience. Now, she runs an empire of 12 eateries.</a></p></li><li><a href="https://www.insider.com/how-beautyblender-became-revolutionary-makeup-product-rea-ann-silva-2019-7">How the Beautyblender became a revolutionary makeup product</a></li></ul>

How Beautyblender CEO Rea Ann Silva went from a TV makeup artist gig to creating the iconic bubblegum pink sponge

How the Beautyblender became a revolutionary makeup product

<p class="financial-disclaimer"><i>When you buy through our links, we may earn money from our affiliate partners. <a href="https://www.insider-inc.com/commerce-on-insider-inc/">Learn more.</a></i></p><p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fbeautyblender-bounce-airbrush-concealer-P4553255325" target="_blank" rel="nofollow nofollow noopener sponsored sponsored nofollow sponsored"></a></p><ul class="summary-list"><li><strong>Beautyblender, known for its iconic pink <keyword id="29496" type="PERSON" weightage="60" keywordseo="Makeup">makeup</keyword> sponge, has officially launched a <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fbeautyblender-bounce-airbrush-concealer-P4553255325" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored">$26 liquid concealer</a>.</strong></li><li><strong>I sent my dermatologist a tube to test, and she was super impressed with the ingredient list, which includes skin-plumping hyaluronic acid and peptides. </strong></li><li><strong>I sent another tube to a top makeup artist, and she was swayed by the whipped texture and how easily it covered up blemishes and dark spots.</strong></li></ul><iframe src="https://produktor.businessinsider.com/productCardService?id=5e875430d5873a3277718bb7&amp;type=small&amp;live=true" width="100%" height="150%" frameborder="0" style="position:absolute; top:0; left: 0"></iframe><p>My friend Lauren works for <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/how-beautyblender-became-revolutionary-makeup-product-rea-ann-silva-2019-7" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Beautyblender</a>, the company that created the <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fbeautyblender-P2289138913" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow sponsored nofollow sponsored nofollow sponsored">iconic egg-shaped makeup sponge</a>, and she rang me up recently to say she wanted me to test their <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fbeautyblender-bounce-airbrush-concealer-P4553255325" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored nofollow sponsored">new concealer</a>. Lauren has sent me a lot of products over the years, but this time she was really excited. </p><p>"You have to try this under your eyes," she said, certain about its ability to brighten up the area and help me look more awake.</p><p>So I checked out the new <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fbeautyblender-bounce-airbrush-concealer-P4553255325" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored nofollow sponsored">Bounce Airbrush Liquid Whip Concealer ($26 at Sephora)</a>, and have to admit, I was immediately impressed by how good it felt to use. I usually use stick concealers, but they can be drying and hard to blend. This one, especially if you're using a damp Beautyblender sponge, melts into the skin nicely, and the whipped texture is like putting a light meringue on your blemishes and spots. </p><h2>The buildable-coverage concealer includes hydrating, skin-nourishing ingredients</h2><p>Also impressive are the skin-loving ingredients in the formula, including peptides, polymers, and hyaluronic acid. Curious, I asked my dermatologist, Dr. Alexis Young, an Assistant Clinical Professor of Dermatology in the Department of Dermatology at Columbia University Medical Center, if there were any benefits to having these ingredients in a concealer. </p><p>"Peptides and polymers in topical products can stimulate the production of skin-plumping collagen," confirmed Dr. Young. "Yet, it's incredibly difficult for peptides to penetrate the top layer of skin before being broken down by the skin's enzymes or being blocked by the tight spaces between the skin's cells. Luckily, this concealer contains tetrapeptide, a technologically advanced peptide that allows for deeper penetration of active ingredients — like the moisturizing hyaluronic acid found in this product."</p><h2>What the concealer is like to use</h2><p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fbeautyblender-bounce-airbrush-concealer-P4553255325" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored"><div type="image" title="BeautyBlenderConcealer2" height="900" width="1200" msid="76324390" hostid="261"></div></a></p><p>Having passed the ingredient test (and having enjoyed using the concealer myself), I asked a top makeup artist, who normally has up to five different concealers in her kit, to give it a try and share her thoughts. She even took some photos for me.</p><p>"<a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fbeautyblender-bounce-airbrush-concealer-P4553255325" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored nofollow sponsored">This concealer</a> is especially impressive for brightening the undereye area," says Kelli Bartlett, the Artistic Director at Glamsquad, who primed her skin with a hydrating eye cream before applying the concealer (she used <a href="https://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/https://www.dermstore.com/product_AGE+Eye+Complex_20344.htm" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored">SkinCeuticals A.G.E. Eye Complex</a>), and then lightly dotted the concealer in a "U" shape under her eyes before blending with a sponge. "The concealer dries down naturally, which means it doesn't need to be set with powder," she notes.</p><p>Not surprisingly, the brand suggests you use their <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fbeautyblender-P2289138913" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow sponsored nofollow sponsored nofollow sponsored">Beautyblender sponge</a> to blend the concealer. "Although a brush or your finger will do, the sponge is the perfect tool to blend and distribute the concealer," Bartlett notes. "When used correctly (wet) the sponge will absorb less makeup, distribute the product more evenly, and leave the skin with an airbrushed finish."</p><p>With <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fbeautyblender-bounce-airbrush-concealer-P4553255325" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored nofollow sponsored">40 shades to choose from</a>, Bartlett suggests picking a formula one shade lighter than your natural skin tone for concealing blemishes, dark spots and circles. </p><p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fbeautyblender-bounce-airbrush-concealer-P4553255325" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored nofollow sponsored">The concealer</a> can also be used to highlight and contour: "To highlight, choose a color two to three shades lighter than your skin tone and swipe the wand from the inner eye to outer temple before blending, using any leftover on the sponge to cover any redness around the nose area," she notes. "To contour, choose a concealer two shades deeper than your natural skin tone and place it in the hollows of the cheeks, on the temples, and along the jawline and blend." </p><p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fbeautyblender-bounce-airbrush-concealer-P4553255325" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored nofollow sponsored"><div type="image" title="BeautyBlenderConcealer3" height="900" width="1200" msid="76324394" hostid="261"></div></a></p><p>What also makes <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fbeautyblender-bounce-airbrush-concealer-P4553255325" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored nofollow sponsored">this concealer</a> unique is the doe-foot applicator, which emulates the shape of a <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fbeautyblender-P2289138913" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored">Beautyblender sponge</a>. "It's two-sided so there's no need for double-dipping — the flat side gives you full coverage in one swipe, while the rounded side allows for a more precise, controlled application, especially when highlighting or contouring," says Rea Ann Silva, Founder &amp; CEO of Beautyblender.</p><p>Silva chalks up the lightweight consistency to the fact that the fluid is whipped using a high-speed aerating process. "With air built into the formula, we were able to create a full coverage, easy-to-build product," says Silva. "It also contains HD pigments that act as light diffusers, brightening and illuminating the skin for a flawless-looking finish." </p><h2>Cons to consider:</h2><p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fbeautyblender-bounce-airbrush-concealer-P4553255325" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored nofollow sponsored">The concealer</a> is free of harmful parabens and phthalates but devoid, too, of sunscreen. Yet that doesn't seem to concern Dr. Young. "Because you don't spread concealer all over your face, it wouldn't be a substitute for a sunscreen, anyway. Just be sure to apply a broad-spectrum SPF to your skin before dotting on your concealer."</p><p>The other downside, though not a dealbreaker, is that the applicator deposits a lot of product at once. If you're only covering a small area, like a blemish, you'll get more than you need — I find myself wiping away excess sometimes.</p><h2>The bottom line:</h2><p>This affordable dermatologist- and makeup artist-approved concealer does a great job at covering blemishes and brightening the area under my eyes, all while providing nourishing skin benefits. The formula is creamy and blends well, especially when using a makeup sponge.</p><p>I don't require a lot of <keyword id="6354629" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="beauty">beauty</keyword> maintenance, but this concealer has officially joined mascara and lip gloss as part of my daily beauty routine.</p><iframe src="https://produktor.businessinsider.com/productCardService?id=5e875430d5873a3277718bb7&amp;type=button&amp;live=true" width="100%" height="150%" frameborder="0" style="position:absolute; top:0; left: 0"></iframe>

Beautyblender, the brand behind that iconic pink makeup sponge, now makes a $26 concealer — I asked a makeup artist and a dermatologist to test it out

<p><em><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/insiderpicks">Insider Picks</a> writes about products and services to help you navigate when shopping online. <keyword id="79969" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="60" keywordseo="insider">Insider</keyword> Inc. receives a commission from our affiliate partners when you buy through our links, but our reporting and recommendations are always independent and objective.</em></p><p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"><a href="https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=EHFxW6yx8Uo&amp;mid=2417&amp;u1=biipgf053118bestbeautyblenders&amp;murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fbeautyblender-P228913%3FskuId%3D1151869%26icid2%3Dproducts%2520grid%3Ap228913" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/5cf6c3fc11e20548e41eb784-1200/best-beauty.jpg" border="0" alt="best beauty blender and makeup sponge" data-mce-source="BeautyBlender / Business Insider" /></a><p class="source"><span>BeautyBlender / Business Insider</span></p></div><p></p></div></div></p><ul class="summary-list"><li><strong>Whether you're serving up high-def contouring for the 'gram or just trying to look amazing on the daily, a good makeup sponge can help. </strong></li><li><strong>There are a ton of different ones out there, and at different price points too.</strong></li><li><strong>But the <a href="https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=EHFxW6yx8Uo&amp;mid=2417&amp;u1=biipgf053118bestbeautyblenders&amp;murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fbeautyblender-P228913%3FskuId%3D1151869%26icid2%3Dproducts%2520grid%3Ap228913" target="_blank" rel="noopener">original Beauty Blender</a> is our top pick for the best makeup sponge because it delivers a flawless finish. At $20, it's pricey but definitely a worthwhile investment.</strong></li></ul><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Since I first started wearing makeup as a junior high schooler in 1998, the game has really changed. Your fingertips and a bag of disposable sponges may have done the trick in the past, but makeup enthusiasts the world over (myself included) have been blessed to discover the magically seamless look that comes from a great makeup sponge and we're not going back. </span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Makeup sponges can generally be used dry or wet for applying and blending liquid or cream makeup. You can also apply base makeup with fingers or a brush and then go over it with a moist sponge to create an airbrush-like finish that you just can't achieve any other way.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">From dabbing on some sheer BB cream or foundation to blending a hardcore, full-coverage contoured look, nobody relies on the dinky little sponge pads that comes with your makeup anymore. Instead, a wide variety of specialized sponges has flooded the market, with a price range that's just as wide. </span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">So how can you tell which ones are worth the money or are a low-budget steal, and which ones you should leave on the shelves? I read countless online reviews from makeup mavens and tested ten sponges myself at a variety of price points to find out which are keepers.</span></p><h2><strong>Here are the best makeup sponges you can buy in 2019:</strong></h2><ul class="summary-list"><li><strong>Best makeup sponge overall: <a href="https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=EHFxW6yx8Uo&amp;mid=2417&amp;u1=biipgf053118bestbeautyblenders&amp;murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fbeautyblender-P228913%3FskuId%3D1151869%26icid2%3Dproducts%2520grid%3Ap228913" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Original BeautyBlender</a></strong></li><li><strong>Best budget makeup sponge: <a href="https://amzn.to/2kChVxt" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge</a></strong></li><li><strong>Best silicone makeup blender: <a href="https://amzn.to/2JhSjEe" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Nylea Silicone Makeup Sponge</a></strong></li><li><strong>Best for makeup sponge for speed: <a href="https://ulta.7eer.net/MY7qP" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Makeup Bullet</a></strong></li><li><strong>Best makeup sponge for switching between products: <a href="https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=EHFxW6yx8Uo&amp;mid=2417&amp;u1=biipgf053118bestbeautyblenders&amp;murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fprecision-makeup-sponge-100-P54487984" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Fenty Beauty Precision Makeup Sponge</a></strong></li></ul><p><em>Updated on 6/4/2019 by Jada Wong: Updated copy, formatting, links, and prices.</em></p><h3>Keep scrolling to check out our top picks.</h3><p class="tagline"><p><a href="http://e.businessinsider.com/join/ci/insider-picks">Subscribe to our newsletter.</a><br><br>Find all the best offers at our <a href="https://coupons.businessinsider.com/">Coupons page</a>.<br><br>Disclosure: This post is brought to you by the <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/insiderpicks">Insider Picks</a> team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our commerce partners. We frequently receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising sales team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at insiderpicks@businessinsider.com.</br></br></br></br></p></p>

The best makeup sponges you can buy

<p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table lead-image-small"><div><div class="image on-image"><a href="https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=EHFxW6yx8Uo&amp;mid=2417&amp;u1=biip_111419_beauty-gifts-under-30&amp;murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fthe-jewel-box-mystery-sponge-P450520" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/5dcf381e7eece523363e3714-1474/screen shot 2019-11-15 at 64259 pm.png" border="0" alt="cheap beauty gifts under 25 dollars" data-mce-source="BeautyBlender" /></a><p class="source"><span>BeautyBlender</span></p></div><p></p></div></div></p><ul class="summary-list"><li>Holiday gift-giving doesn't have to cost a fortune, thanks to these 25 beauty finds for under $25. </li><li>From <a href="https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=EHFxW6yx8Uo&amp;mid=24449&amp;u1=biip_111419_beauty-gifts-under-30&amp;murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.net-a-porter.com%2Fus%2Fen%2Fproduct%2F885372%2Feyeko%2Fmascara-off-eye-makeup-remover-wipes" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">$5 makeup removing wipes</a> to <a href="https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=EHFxW6yx8Uo&amp;mid=24449&amp;u1=biip_111419_beauty-gifts-under-30&amp;murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.net-a-porter.com%2Fus%2Fen%2Fproduct%2F1027055%2Fle_labo%2Flip-balm--15ml" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">$15 Le Labo lip balms</a> and <a href="https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=EHFxW6yx8Uo&amp;mid=1237&amp;u1=biip_111419_beauty-gifts-under-30&amp;murl=https%3A%2F%2Fshop.nordstrom.com%2Fs%2Fguerlain-rouge-g-customizable-lipstick-case%2F4926757%2Flite" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">$22 customizable Guerlain lipstick cases</a>, these gifts are certainly not cheap in quality. </li><li>Here are 25 of our favorite affordable beauty gifts. And if you need more gifting inspiration, <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/holiday-gift-guide" target="_blank" rel="noopener">check out all of our gift guides here</a>. </li></ul><p>Between your family, friends, partners, friends' partners, co-workers, dog walker, and the barista who knows your coffee order, holiday gifting can add up - especially if you're tempted to treat everyone. </p><p>We'll never tell you not to splurge on a great gift, but if you're looking for something more affordable, we've rounded up 25 beauty gifts all under $25. They're even ordered from low to high so you can shop within your budget. </p><h2>Here are 25 affordable beauty gifts that fit your beer budget and their Champagne tastes:</h2><p class="tagline"><p><a href="http://e.businessinsider.com/join/ci/insider-picks">Subscribe to our newsletter.</a><br><br>Find all the best offers at our <a href="https://coupons.businessinsider.com/">Coupons page</a>.<br><br>Disclosure: This post is brought to you by the <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/insiderpicks">Insider Picks</a> team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our commerce partners. We frequently receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising sales team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at insiderpicks@businessinsider.com.</br></br></br></br></p></p>

25 beauty gifts under $25 - including Le Labo lip balms, Givenchy makeup sponges, and Guerlain lipstick cases

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Legendary <keyword id="218682" type="POSITION" weightage="60" keywordseo="makeup-artist">makeup artist</keyword> <keyword id="2671066" type="PERSON" weightage="60" keywordseo="Pat-McGrath">Pat McGrath</keyword> was named a DBE, or a Dame of the British Empire, on Wednesday for her services to the fashion and <keyword id="6354629" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="beauty">beauty</keyword> industries, as well as her diversity efforts.</li><li>She said on Instagram that she was "beyond humbled" to receive the honor, and dedicated her award to all <keyword id="29496" type="PERSON" weightage="60" keywordseo="Makeup">makeup</keyword> artists.</li><li>McGrath was previously named an MBE, or a Member of the Order of the British Empire, in 2014.</li></ul><p><a href="https://www.insider.com/category/pat-mcgrath">Pat McGrath</a> is heading into 2021 with a major honor from <a href="https://www.insider.com/category/queen-elizabeth">Queen Elizabeth II</a>.</p><p>On Wednesday, the legendary makeup artist was featured in the Queen's annual honors list, which is released twice a year on the Queen's birthday and ahead of the new year. McGrath was named a DBE - or a Dame of the British Empire - for her "services to the fashion and beauty industry and diversity," according to <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CJcPXxKAGNf/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link">an Instagram post from the makeup artist</a>.</p><p>McGrath also said she feels "beyond humbled" to receive the award, and went on to thank her loved ones for helping her reach this point in her career.</p><blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:800; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px); data.width~800;"><div style="padding:8px;"><div style="background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:62.4537037037% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;"><div style="background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAABGdBTUEAALGPC/xhBQAAAAFzUkdCAK7OHOkAAAAMUExURczMzPf399fX1+bm5mzY9AMAAADiSURBVDjLvZXbEsMgCES5/P8/t9FuRVCRmU73JWlzosgSIIZURCjo/ad+EQJJB4Hv8BFt+IDpQoCx1wjOSBFhh2XssxEIYn3ulI/6MNReE07UIWJEv8UEOWDS88LY97kqyTliJKKtuYBbruAyVh5wOHiXmpi5we58Ek028czwyuQdLKPG1Bkb4NnM+VeAnfHqn1k4+GPT6uGQcvu2h2OVuIf/gWUFyy8OWEpdyZSa3aVCqpVoVvzZZ2VTnn2wU8qzVjDDetO90GSy9mVLqtgYSy231MxrY6I2gGqjrTY0L8fxCxfCBbhWrsYYAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;"></div></div><p style="margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CJcPXxKAGNf" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank"></a></p> <p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by Pat McGrath (@patmcgrathreal)<time style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;" datetime=""></time></p></div></blockquote><p>"I want to thank all of the amazing people in my life - my mother Jean McGrath, my family, friends, colleagues, and you, my fellow Beauty Lovers, who contributed to this award," she wrote. "Not in my wildest dreams could I have imagined that one day Her Majesty <keyword id="2825" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="60" keywordseo="Queen-Elizabeth">Queen Elizabeth</keyword> II would recognize me to be amongst the incredible recipients of this honour both past and present."</p><p>"When I first launched my brand, PAT McGRATH LABS, it was designed to inspire self-expression and individuality," McGrath continued. "I dedicate this honour in tribute to makeup artists everywhere. I adore each and every one of you. Never give up on your dreams  - with hard work, creativity and perseverance, anything is possible."</p><p>In a statement sent to Insider over email, McGrath added: "My mother's obsession with beauty and fashion ignited my passion for this amazing industry and I feel blessed to have the privilege of working with some of the most extraordinary people throughout my career."</p><h2>Pat McGrath was previously included in Queen Elizabeth II's 2014 New Year honors list</h2><p><a href="https://www.vogue.com/article/makeup-artist-pat-mcgrath-honored-by-queen">As Vogue previously reported</a>, McGrath was named an MBE, or a Member of the Order of the British Empire, for her services to the fashion and beauty industries at Buckingham Palace on May 1, 2014.</p><p>She told the publication at the time that it was "a complete shock" to receive the award, and that she decided to take her first-ever selfie on her way to the ceremony.</p><p>Four years later in 2018, fellow makeup artist <a href="https://www.vogue.co.uk/article/charlotte-tilbury-awarded-mbe">Charlotte Tilbury was also named an MBE</a> by Queen Elizabeth II for her achievements as a makeup artist and beauty-brand owner.</p><p>"Today has been one of the most magical days of my life," Tilbury told Vogue at the time. "I am so delighted and thrilled to receive this honor, especially from Her Majesty, the Queen, who has been an endless source of inspiration to me."</p><h2>McGrath has made a major impact on the beauty industry over the course of nearly three decades</h2><p>Though McGrath is often associated with her namesake beauty brand, <a href="https://www.patmcgrath.com/">Pat McGrath Labs</a>, she actually got her start working as a makeup artist for celebrities and models. <a href="https://www.vogue.co.uk/article/pat-mcgrath-labs-selfridges-interview">According to Vogue UK</a>, her work has appeared on over 500 magazine covers and more than 190,000 models at the time of writing.</p><p>One celebrity she's worked with, Kacey Musgraves, congratulated McGrath on her recent achievement, writing "BADDEST B---- TO EVER ROAM" on the makeup artist's Instagram post.</p><div type="image" title="dior pat mcgrath" height="971" width="1295" msid="80050307" hostid="261"></div><p>McGrath's work often utilizes glitter, sparkling shadows, and other eye-catching techniques to create otherworldly looks. In the past, she's been the creative force behind sequin lips, feather-covered eyebrows, and crystal masks that have appeared on designer runways.</p><p>As a result of creating such looks, McGrath was previously <a href="https://www.allure.com/gallery/pat-mcgrath-most-iconic-looks-cfda-2017">described by Allure</a> as the most influential makeup artist in the world.</p><ul class="read-more-links"><li>Read more:</li><li><a href="https://www.insider.com/luminaries-jackie-aina-beauty-inclusive-2020-10">Jackie Aina has taken the beauty industry by storm. The YouTube star isn't stopping there.</a></li><li><a href="https://www.insider.com/luminaries-rea-ann-silva-beautyblender-makeup-voting-election-2020-10">How Beautyblender CEO Rea Ann Silva went from a TV makeup artist gig to creating the iconic bubblegum pink sponge</a></li><li><a href="https://www.insider.com/jobs-beauty-influencers-had-before-famous-youtube">Surprising jobs Jeffree Star, James Charles, and other beauty influencers had before achieving internet fame</a></li><li><a href="https://www.insider.com/real-names-of-beauty-influencers-2019-11">The surprising real names of 14 popular beauty influencers</a></li></ul>

Queen Elizabeth II has named legendary makeup artist Pat McGrath a Dame of the British Empire

<ul class="summary-list"><li><keyword id="11063342" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="kvd-beauty">KVD Beauty</keyword>'s Good Apple Skin-Perfecting <keyword id="142144" type="CITY" weightage="60" keywordseo="Foundation">Foundation</keyword> Balm is a fan-favorite <keyword id="6354629" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="beauty">beauty</keyword> product.</li><li>I tried the foundation and really disliked how it enhanced the dryness of my skin.</li><li>Though I wouldn't recommend this product, I commend the brand for being innovative.</li></ul><p><a href="https://insider.com/category/kat-von-d">Kat Von D's</a> former <keyword id="29496" type="PERSON" weightage="60" keywordseo="Makeup">makeup</keyword> brand entered 2021 as <a href="https://www.insider.com/how-kat-von-d-makeup-will-change-2020-1">KVD Vegan Beauty</a>.</p><p>The company <a href="https://www.insider.com/kvd-beauty-makeup-brand-changes-2021-3">has since rebranded</a> and launched its first two products after the tattoo artist famously <a href="https://www.insider.com/kat-von-d-sold-namesake-makeup-brand-2020-1">sold her shares</a> of the brand. Today, <a href="https://www.insider.com/why-its-good-that-kat-von-d-sold-beauty-brand-2021-4">the company is seemingly thriving</a> - largely thanks to the success of its new Good Apple Skin-Perfecting Foundation Balm.</p><p>After waiting weeks for the foundation to be restocked, I finally got my hands on one. Unfortunately, after trying the balm for a few days, I almost wish I hadn't.</p><h2>KVD Beauty's Good Apple Skin-Perfecting Foundation Balm <a href="https://www.kvdveganbeauty.com/face/foundation/good-apple-skin-perfecting-foundation-balm/20050.html">retails for $38</a></h2><p>The foundation balm - made with apple extract -  is sold in 40 shades. It's 100% vegan, according to the brand's website, and is meant to feel lightweight and look matte on the skin. It's also supposed to last "all day," apply "fast," and provide full coverage.</p><blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:800; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px); data.width~800;"><div style="padding:8px;"><div style="background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:62.4537037037% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;"><div style="background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAABGdBTUEAALGPC/xhBQAAAAFzUkdCAK7OHOkAAAAMUExURczMzPf399fX1+bm5mzY9AMAAADiSURBVDjLvZXbEsMgCES5/P8/t9FuRVCRmU73JWlzosgSIIZURCjo/ad+EQJJB4Hv8BFt+IDpQoCx1wjOSBFhh2XssxEIYn3ulI/6MNReE07UIWJEv8UEOWDS88LY97kqyTliJKKtuYBbruAyVh5wOHiXmpi5we58Ek028czwyuQdLKPG1Bkb4NnM+VeAnfHqn1k4+GPT6uGQcvu2h2OVuIf/gWUFyy8OWEpdyZSa3aVCqpVoVvzZZ2VTnn2wU8qzVjDDetO90GSy9mVLqtgYSy231MxrY6I2gGqjrTY0L8fxCxfCBbhWrsYYAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;"></div></div><p style="margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CNI-qq5sxbb" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank"></a></p> <p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by KVD BEAUTY (@kvdbeauty)<time style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;" datetime=""></time></p></div></blockquote><p>KVD Beauty recommends applying the makeup with a brush or sponge in patting motions. You can also use your fingers "to spot conceal," according to the brand.</p><p>Once you've finished using the entire compact, its outer packaging and clear container can be recycled.</p><h2>I used the foundation four days in a row and had a disappointing experience each time</h2><p>When I purchased the foundation on KVD Beauty's website, most shades were sold out. And out of the three shades I was considering, only the lightest - <a href="https://www.sephora.com/product/kvd-vegan-beauty-good-apple-skin-perfecting-foundation-balm-P469488?skuId=2420198">Light 002</a> - was available. Though it's a bit too pale to be a perfect match for me, it still works with the help of some blush and bronzer.  </p><p>I used a Beautyblender sponge the first day I tried it and wasn't blown away by the foundation's coverage. I found it difficult to blend, and I noticed some of my worst acne and dry spots poking through.</p><div type="image" title="kvd_beauty_foundation_balm_review" height="1163" width="1092" msid="82005323" hostid="261"></div><p>That being said, I still understood that day after completing my makeup why <a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-9418939/TikTok-beauty-lovers-wild-38-KVD-Beauty-foundation.html">people on TikTok can't get enough of the balm</a>. At first, my skin looked smooth and almost blemish-free.</p><p>But when I stepped closer to my mirror, I noticed the foundation was clinging to dry spots on my chin and forehead. It also looked extremely patchy around my nose and settled into every fine line across my cheeks.</p><div type="image" title="kvd review" height="900" width="900" msid="82005324" hostid="261"></div><p>The next day, I applied the foundation with a dense brush on top of a thicker moisturizer in the hopes of combating those dry patches. Though the makeup's coverage was much better and smoother as a result, I experienced the same dryness and creasing as the day went on.</p><p>I also found that if I touched my face even slightly, the foundation would move, break apart, and need touch-ups.</p><div type="image" title="kvd_foundation_before_after" height="900" width="1200" msid="82005326" hostid="261"></div><p>For the third and fourth days of my <keyword id="45374" type="CITY" weightage="60" keywordseo="Review">review</keyword>, I continued to use a brush to apply the foundation. I also experimented with different moisturizers and primers underneath, and I tried using my fingers to apply the product as a spot corrector.</p><p>Again, I liked the overall look of the foundation - but only from a distance. Up close, I could see dryness on my forehead and chin, and creasing near my eyes.</p><div type="image" title="kvd foundation dry skin" height="900" width="900" msid="82005327" hostid="261"></div><p>Despite all my troubles with the foundation, I'm happy to report that it held up relatively well each day that I wore it. It kept my face matte and smooth after running errands and taking walks, and it didn't transfer much to the face masks that I wore.</p><p>I also loved how it paired with other makeup and gave the appearance of "skin that looks like skin," <a href="https://www.kvdveganbeauty.com/face/foundation/good-apple-skin-perfecting-foundation-balm/20050.html">as the brand promises</a> - albeit <keyword id="120454" type="PERSON" weightage="60" keywordseo="dry-skin">dry skin</keyword>.</p><p>The compact itself is also really beautiful, in my opinion, and I appreciate how it's entirely recyclable - something I think other brands should take note of. </p><h2>I wouldn't recommend this foundation unless you already have flawless skin</h2><p>I really wanted to love this foundation balm, but I just didn't. As someone with very dry skin, I found that this product's matte finish really clings to dry spots, and is overall difficult to work with.</p><p>While it feels like a balm in the compact, it applies on the skin more like a pot concealer that isn't meant to spread all over your face. And even when used as one, in my experience, it didn't cover my blemishes without settling into their fine lines and drying them out.</p><p><a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@lisa.chambers/video/6945440316732230918?lang=en&amp;is_copy_url=0&amp;is_from_webapp=v1&amp;sender_device=pc&amp;sender_web_id=68913339589369543741333958936954374">Based on reviews I've seen</a>, it seems like the foundation doesn't work much better for oily skin. It seemingly becomes cakey throughout the day and looks greasy overall.</p><p>If you have slightly dry skin, and you want something that stays matte in the summer, this might work for you. But overall, it seems like you'd need to have relatively "perfect" skin that's not too dry or too oily for this to really work.</p><p>Still, I give KVD Beauty credit for trying to create something innovative, and though this particular product didn't work for me, I'm excited to see what the brand comes up with in the future.</p><p><em>This is an opinion column. The thoughts expressed are those of the author(s).</em></p>

I tried the popular KVD Beauty foundation balm, and I wouldn't buy it again

<div tabindex="-1"><div id=":17s"><div id=":17r"><div dir="ltr"><p id=":187" tabindex="0" role="button" data-tooltip="Show trimmed content" aria-label="Show trimmed content" aria-expanded="false"><em><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/insiderpicks" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.businessinsider.com/insiderpicks&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1556285154405000&amp;usg=AFQjCNHtzFOG8FymHQjqRZlngEo6fAirSw">Insider Picks</a> writes about products and services to help you navigate when shopping online. <keyword id="79969" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="60" keywordseo="insider">Insider</keyword> Inc. receives a commission from our affiliate partners when you buy through our links, but our reporting and recommendations are always independent and objective.</em></p><p><div class="KonaFilter image-container"><div class="image on-image"><a href="https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=EHFxW6yx8Uo&amp;mid=2417&amp;u1=biip_042519_cushion-compacts&amp;murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fcolor-control-cushion-compact-broad-spectrum-spf-50-P378121" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/5cc1ce33b14bf45b20161ad1-640/amorepacific.jpg?maxX=800&amp;maxY=600" border="0" alt="AmorePacific" width="800" height="600" data-mce-source="AmorePacific" /></a><p class="source"><span>AmorePacific</span></p><p class="caption">AmorePacific's Color Control Cushion Compact Broad Spectrum SPF 50+ combines medium coverage and high SPF for a flawless, protected complexion.</p></div><p></p></div></p></div></div></div></div><ul class="summary-list"><li tabindex="-1">Cushion foundation compacts are a K-beauty innovation that combine skin care, sun care, and makeup into a convenient compact. </li><li tabindex="-1">Coverage ranges from sheer to full with dewy to natural finishes and a decent level of SPF. </li><li tabindex="-1">Shades can be limited, especially from some Korean brands, but others have created more inclusive shade ranges.  </li></ul><p id=":3c3" tabindex="-1">As a commuter who spends more than an hour on the train, I make the most of my ride by answering emails, texting friends about "Game of Thrones," and putting on my makeup. </p><div id=":3zb"><p id=":57a">Instead of fussing with foundations that come in thick glass bottles and require my hands to blend, or having to put some into a contacts case and then use a BeautyBlender or brush, I keep my sanity (and face germ-free) with a cushion foundation compact.<span> </span><br /><br />It's a K-beauty innovation (as many buzzy skin-care and beauty products have been in recent years) and is super portable and easy to use. It's basically mirrored compact with a sponge-y cushion drenched in foundation; coverage can range from sheer to full with dewy to matte finishes, and there's usually a high SPF of 30 or more. Unfortunately, many brands have limited shade ranges and don't have shades that match deeper skin tones, though some are better than others. </p><p>To use, just dab the included sponge into the compact until you get some makeup and then press onto your face. I do a pressing motion as I move around my face, but I know some people who do a press-and-roll motion. There's no right way to do it in my opinion; you'll still get the coverage.<span> </span><br /><br /><strong>Here are eight cushion foundation compacts you can use literally anywhere without getting your hands or face dirty: </strong></p></div><p class="tagline"><a href="http://e.businessinsider.com/join/ci/insider-picks">Subscribe to our newsletter.</a><br><br>Find all the best offers at our <a href="https://coupons.businessinsider.com/">Coupons page</a>.<br><br>Disclosure: This post is brought to you by the <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/insiderpicks">Insider Picks</a> team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our commerce partners. We frequently receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising sales team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at insiderpicks@businessinsider.com.</br></br></br></br></p>

8 cushion foundations you can use anywhere without getting your hands or face dirty

<ul class="summary-list"><li><keyword id="1493355" type="PERSON" weightage="60" keywordseo="Olivia-Culpo">Olivia Culpo</keyword> has worked as model, influencer, and actress after winning the Miss Universe pageant in 2012.</li><li>We recently spoke with her as part of Insider's "<keyword id="9734904" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="beauty-files">Beauty Files</keyword>" series.</li><li>She named her five, favorite lip products — including Mac's Whirl lip liner — and also explained why she applies setting spray in-between her foundation, blush, and bronzer.</li><li>Culpo also said it was "surreal" to teach YouTuber Patrick Starrr about her <keyword id="29496" type="PERSON" weightage="60" keywordseo="Makeup">makeup</keyword> routine, and said she takes inspiration from vintage <keyword id="6354629" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="beauty">beauty</keyword> trends.</li></ul><p><a href="https://www.insider.com/category/olivia-culpo">Olivia Culpo</a> is a multi-hyphenate star.</p><p>Since <a href="https://www.insider.com/miss-universe-winners-gowns-through-the-years-photos-2019-12#after-being-crowned-miss-usa-olivia-culpo-went-on-to-win-the-title-of-miss-universe-in-2012-44">winning the Miss Universe pageant in 2012</a>, she's been working as a fashion influencer with more than 4.7 million Instagram followers. Culpo has also started an acting career, and was featured <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CClSYyinbOn/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link">on the cover of Sports Illustrated's 2020 swimsuit issue</a>. Most recently, she partnered with Crest and makeup mogul Patrick Starrr <a href="https://youtu.be/4u8V1s7WyMI">for a YouTube video</a>.</p><p>As part of Insider's <a href="https://www.insider.com/category/beauty-files">"Beauty Files"</a> series, which takes readers beyond the beauty world they see online, we spoke with Culpo about her five favorite lip products, collaborating with YouTubers, and achieving a natural beauty look.</p><p><em>This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.</em></p><p><em><div type="image" title="olivia_culpo_interview" height="1592" width="2122" msid="78217641" hostid="261"></div></em></p><h2>Olivia Culpo shares how she's recently incorporated new products into her beauty routine</h2><p><strong>The past few months have been a whirlwind — has your beauty routine changed at all?</strong></p><p>I found myself wearing a little less makeup when we were really locked down, and I've been trying to find new ways to help my skin-care routine. I've also been exploring new products that I normally wouldn't, just because I don't usually have time to do research. </p><p>One is this product by ZitSticka, it's <a href="https://zitsticka.com/products/skin-discipline-supplement">called Skin Discipline</a>. And also <a href="https://crestwhitesmile.com/crest-whitening-emulsions/">Crest Whitening Emulsions</a>, which I'm a huge fan of. It's so fast and easy to use, and also so effective and great for sensitive teeth. I've given it to all of my siblings. </p><p><strong>Do you have a favorite lip product to compliment your teeth-whitening routine?</strong></p><p>I really like the <a href="https://www.maccosmetics.com/product/13852/340/products/makeup/lips/lip-liner/lip-pencil#!/shade/Whirl">Whirl Mac lip liner</a>. I'm also a huge fan of Pat McGrath. I don't remember the color, but she has great pigment and consistency in her liners. Also Victoria Beckham has a great lip liner. A lot of people don't know about her makeup line yet, but they're amazing.</p><p>For lipsticks, I love <a href="https://www.harpersbazaar.com/beauty/makeup/g19756559/nars-erdem-strange-flowers-makeup/">the Nars Erdem collection</a> — it might've been limited edition, but I love it. And the <a href="https://www.sephora.com/product/dior-addict-lip-glow-color-reviver-balm-P236816">Dior Lip Glow</a>. That's my favorite and has been forever.</p><p><strong>Speaking of Crest, you recently partnered with Patrick Starrr for <a href="https://youtu.be/4u8V1s7WyMI">a video sponsored by the brand</a>. What was that experience like?</strong></p><p>I'm a huge fan of Patrick. No one that I know can speak to makeup in the way that he can. He is such an expert. I talked him through my favorite makeup routine, so it was kind of surreal to be teaching him because he's obviously the best at doing makeup ever.</p><p>I was in awe of everything he had to teach me, and he supposedly had things he learned from me. Maybe he was just being nice, but you guys can judge for yourself.</p><p><strong>And you both filmed from separate locations, right?</strong></p><p>Yeah it was really weird doing a virtual YouTube collaboration, but it was awesome and so easy. We figured out the perfect apparatus. </p><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/4u8V1s7WyMI" frameborder="0"></iframe><h2>The model talks about her first experiences with makeup, and shares tips she's learned throughout her career</h2><p><strong>Can you share some of your earliest beauty memories</strong><strong>?</strong></p><p>I started by just rummaging through the medicine cabinets in our house and my mom's vanity. I remember I would just use Vaseline or baby oil, and put it on my eyes for a little sheen. I'd try and work with what I had and see what it did.</p><p>When I think about my favorite movies of all time, there's always some major, glow-up makeover moment — like "The Princess Diaries," "Never Been Kissed," even "Shrek" and "Beauty and the Beast." So I think the aspect of makeup that I love is being able to create a new look.</p><p><strong>Looking back at those years, do you regret any of your beauty looks?</strong></p><p>When I was really little, I had a little bit of money saved up, so I went to CVS and bought a product that I put all over my face. It was supposed to give this bronzy glow — but immediately, I broke out into little hives all over my forehead. I was like, 'Well apparently I have sensitive skin. This product wasn't a good idea.'</p><p>But aside from that, there are definitely beauty moments in the past that I wouldn't revisit, but I don't have any regrets. </p><p><strong>And now that you've spent years working as a model and influencer, have you picked up any go-to beauty tricks you'd recommend?</strong></p><p>I personally love <a href="https://beautyblender.com/">Beautyblenders</a> — that's a makeup staple for me — or using my fingers to achieve a more natural beauty look. To really seal all the makeup in and create a dewy, natural base, I love applying a face mist in-between blush, bronzer, and foundation.</p><p>I'm also a huge fan of using a spoolie to take mascara from the wand and apply that to my eyes for a more natural look. And drinking water is a huge beauty tip that I definitely try to live by.</p><p><strong>Where do you find your beauty inspiration?</strong></p><p>From vintage accounts on Instagram. I love looking up old makeup trends, and that's honestly where I find a great amount of my inspiration.</p><p>I'm not super inspired by makeup that completely alters what you have going for you naturally. So I feel like if you go back in time and look at a lot of women who are considered iconic, they really just played up their signature differences — so I try to go in that direction.</p><ul class="read-more-links"><li>Read more:</li><li><a href="https://www.insider.com/lauren-conrad-beauty-files-interview-2020-9">Lauren Conrad shares how she turned a long-time love of makeup into a growing beauty business</a></li><li><a href="https://www.insider.com/rosie-huntington-whiteley-makeup-interview-2020-8">Rosie Huntington-Whiteley says having her makeup done for years as a model inspired her to start a show about beauty</a></li><li><a href="https://www.insider.com/patrick-starrr-makeup-youtube-interview-2020-8">Patrick Starrr shares how late nights making YouTube videos led to him owning a cosmetics company</a></li><li><a href="https://www.insider.com/youtuber-brad-mondo-hair-interview-2020-8">Brad Mondo shares how working at his dad's salon led him to become one of the most popular hairstylists on YouTube</a></li></ul>

Olivia Culpo shares the 5 lip products she swears by, and explains why she prefers a natural look over heavy makeup

<div type="image" title="Luminaries — Katie Sturino" height="1645" width="2190" msid="78942083" hostid="261"></div><ul class="summary-list"><li>Kate Sturino founded Megababe in 2017 after she had trouble finding a clean product that would address thigh chafing. </li><li>She started out working in <keyword id="6" type="ENTERTAINMENT" weightage="60" keywordseo="fashion">fashion</keyword> public relations before starting her blog, 12ish <keyword id="7" type="CITY" weightage="60" keywordseo="style">Style</keyword>. Her goal was to spread awareness about body acceptance. </li><li>"I didn't have representation, so I became the representation," Sturino told Insider. "It's been my 'aha' moment because it's allowed me to tap into helping women. When you're in the mindset of being of service to other people, you never really feel like you're working, and that is how I feel most of the time."</li><li><strong><strong>Sturino is on Insider's list of Luminaries:</strong></strong> 25 women pushing boundaries and accomplishing extraordinary feats. Check out the full list <a href="https://www.insider.com/the-luminaries-25-people-accomplishing-extraordinary-goals-2020-10">here</a>.</li></ul><ul class="summary-list"></ul><p>Six years ago, while Katie Sturino was working in fashion public relations, she was asked to appear in a Repeller article about dressing for curvy body types. It was a perfect fit, she said, because she considers herself to be a body acceptance advocate. </p><p>After the story came out, Sturino heard from readers who said they had never seen a body like hers on a fashion blog. It sparked the idea for what would become her blog, <a href="https://www.the12ishstyle.com/">12ish Style</a>, named for her own size — she fluctuated between a size 12 and 14, and wanted to address people who, like her, fell in between straight sizing and plus-size. </p><p>The goal of the blog, she said, was to spread awareness about body acceptance. </p><p>"I didn't have representation, so I became the representation," Sturino told Insider. "It's been my 'aha' moment because it's allowed me to tap into helping women. When you're in the mindset of being of service to other people, you never really feel like you're working, and that is how I feel most of the time." </p><p>Years later, this attitude led her to found Megababe, a line of personal hygiene products that address issues like chafing and sweating.</p><h2>Sturino had what she calls a 'blissfully normal childhood growing up in the Midwest' but always knew she would eventually move to New York City</h2><p>Growing up, Sturino knew she wanted to be a fashion editor and work at a magazine in New York. </p><p>"I always cared about what I was wearing. I loved all of the 90s models, like Niki and Krissy Taylor, Linda Evangelista, Stephanie Seymour, Naomi Campbell," she told Insider.</p><p>Sturino was born and raised in Wisconsin and stayed in state to go to the University of Wisconsin. She got her first internship at Chanel after flying herself out to New York and repeatedly emailing the person in charge. After interning there for two summers, Sturino got a job in Dolce &amp; Gabbana's public relations department right after graduating. </p><p>But seeing models like Seymour, Campbell, and Evangelista in magazines was hard for Sturino. She didn't look like them, which she tried to change for years until she realized she didn't have to. </p><p>"It took me a really long time to untrain myself from thinking that way, embrace myself, and empower others to do the same," she said. </p><p>In 2005 she launched her own public relations firm, Tinder PR. She eventually left PR behind and launched her blog in 2015.</p><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/919147744&amp;color=%23ff5500&amp;auto_play=false&amp;hide_related=false&amp;show_comments=true&amp;show_user=true&amp;show_reposts=false&amp;show_teaser=true"></iframe><a href="https://soundcloud.com/insideraudio" title="insideraudio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">insideraudio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/insideraudio/the-luminariesl-katie-sturino" title="The Luminaries: Katie Sturino" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">The Luminaries: Katie Sturino</a><h2><strong>Sturino found it difficult to become the star of her own blog at first— but it helped her launch her next venture</strong></h2><p>Going from being behind the scenes to being an influencer was initially hard for Sturino. </p><p>"It was really hard for me to feel that people would even care what I was saying," she said. "Even taking a selfie or talking about what I was doing was so lame for me at the time. It was hard to get over that hump but I did because now I talk about everything. I'm very honest!" she said. </p><p>Sturino later started two features, #MakeMySize and #SuperSizetheLook, on both her blog and Instagram.  </p><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" style="background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px); data.width~540;"><div style="padding:8px;"><div style="background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:62.4537037037% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;"><div style="background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAABGdBTUEAALGPC/xhBQAAAAFzUkdCAK7OHOkAAAAMUExURczMzPf399fX1+bm5mzY9AMAAADiSURBVDjLvZXbEsMgCES5/P8/t9FuRVCRmU73JWlzosgSIIZURCjo/ad+EQJJB4Hv8BFt+IDpQoCx1wjOSBFhh2XssxEIYn3ulI/6MNReE07UIWJEv8UEOWDS88LY97kqyTliJKKtuYBbruAyVh5wOHiXmpi5we58Ek028czwyuQdLKPG1Bkb4NnM+VeAnfHqn1k4+GPT6uGQcvu2h2OVuIf/gWUFyy8OWEpdyZSa3aVCqpVoVvzZZ2VTnn2wU8qzVjDDetO90GSy9mVLqtgYSy231MxrY6I2gGqjrTY0L8fxCxfCBbhWrsYYAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;"></div></div><p style="margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CEsLsbDB0rI" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">#MakeMySize @revolve You guys asked for this one and you were right! Over 12,000 options on the site for a size small...but 54 for a XXL. This @shoprhode is a size 8 and it’s the largest they carry even though Rhode makes a 14. (I’d love to wear your clothes as well @shoprhode ❤️) Consider letting more women Revolve Around the World ❤️</a></p> <p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by  Katie Sturino (@katiesturino) on Sep 3, 2020 at 3:00pm PDT<time style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;" datetime="2020-09-03T22:00:01+00:00">Sep 3, 2020 at 3:00pm PDT</time></p></div></blockquote><p>For the former, Sturino tries on the biggest sizes that a brand has to offer to show them they still have a ways to go to be size inclusive. The latter series involves recreating a celebrity look on her frame. (Her favorite looks to draw inspiration from, she said, are Kate Middleton's.)</p><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" style="background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px); data.width~540;"><div style="padding:8px;"><div style="background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:62.4537037037% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;"><div style="background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAABGdBTUEAALGPC/xhBQAAAAFzUkdCAK7OHOkAAAAMUExURczMzPf399fX1+bm5mzY9AMAAADiSURBVDjLvZXbEsMgCES5/P8/t9FuRVCRmU73JWlzosgSIIZURCjo/ad+EQJJB4Hv8BFt+IDpQoCx1wjOSBFhh2XssxEIYn3ulI/6MNReE07UIWJEv8UEOWDS88LY97kqyTliJKKtuYBbruAyVh5wOHiXmpi5we58Ek028czwyuQdLKPG1Bkb4NnM+VeAnfHqn1k4+GPT6uGQcvu2h2OVuIf/gWUFyy8OWEpdyZSa3aVCqpVoVvzZZ2VTnn2wU8qzVjDDetO90GSy9mVLqtgYSy231MxrY6I2gGqjrTY0L8fxCxfCBbhWrsYYAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;"></div></div><p style="margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CF8GkzKhPvi" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">#SuperSizeTheLook  Royal Edition Leave it to Kate to give us an easy chic look to live in. It’s never about who wore it better❤️ Kate’s photo via @splashnews</a></p> <p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by  Katie Sturino (@katiesturino) on Oct 4, 2020 at 3:54pm PDT<time style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;" datetime="2020-10-04T22:54:20+00:00">Oct 4, 2020 at 3:54pm PDT</time></p></div></blockquote><p>Sturino was familiar with difficult conversations about size inclusivity, and on Instagram, she openly talked about body topics like thigh chafing, boob sweat, and body odor. It helped inspire her to found Megababe in 2017. </p><p>At the time, she was looking for a holy grail product that would solve thigh chafe and also had clean ingredients. Her hunt led her to create Thigh Rescue, an anti-chafe stick that has gone on to become a top-selling product for the brand.</p><div type="image" title="Thigh Rescue 2" height="2000" width="2000" msid="78942087" hostid="261"></div><p>The line has since expanded to <a href="https://megababebeauty.com/collections/all-products/products/rosy-pits">natural deodorants</a>, a <a href="https://megababebeauty.com/collections/all-products/products/le-tush-butt-mask">clarifying butt mask</a>, an <a href="https://megababebeauty.com/collections/all-products/products/bust-dust">anti boob-sweat powder</a>, and a <a href="https://megababebeauty.com/collections/all-products/products/happy-pits-underarm-mask">detoxifying underarm mask</a>. </p><p>"Rather than being like, 'Here's this shameful problem that you think you're the only one who has it because you haven't heard about it on a beauty column,' let's change that narrative and invite everyone in and have fun with it," she said of the company's name. </p><p>The biggest surprise so far, she said, is people who doubt the necessity of her products, partly because they didn't want to admit that chafing was a problem. She got negative feedback from manufacturers and even friends, she added.</p><p>"It took a long time for beauty editors to stop snickering at what I was talking about or even to get on board. It was such a difficult concept for people to grasp even though it's such a common thing," she said. </p><h2><strong>Three years in, Sturino said people still don't get what she's selling with Megababe</strong></h2><p><strong><div type="image" title="Le Tush 2" height="2000" width="2000" msid="78942090" hostid="261"></div></strong></p><p>Sturino said it blows her mind that people still want to put her products into a box and stamp the brand as niche. </p><p>"Unless I'm misunderstanding the word niche, we're like the least niche thing you can be. People think I made a really specific type of product for only 100 people in the world, which is just not the case," she said. </p><div type="image" title="Squeaky Clean 2" height="2000" width="2000" msid="78942092" hostid="261"></div><p>Sturino told Insider the next product that Megababe plans to release will be in the antibacterial space, because the hand sanitizer it brought to market during the pandemic sold well. </p><p>Given her busy life — she runs Megababe, 12ish Style, and partnerships with brands — it's easy to imagine how she might get overwhelmed. But she credits her team with letting her run wild with ideas while still reeling her in when necessary.</p><p>"I think that's what an entrepreneur is, because I'm someone that can't stop coming up with ideas and pursuing things," she said. "[It] can be trying for the people around me, but I just think we have so much to do."</p><ul class="read-more-links"><li></li><li>Read more:</li><li><a href="https://www.insider.com/the-luminaries-25-people-accomplishing-extraordinary-goals-2020-10">The Luminaries: 25 women pushing boundaries and accomplishing extraordinary feats</a></li><li><a href="https://www.insider.com/luminaries-shades-of-shades-marsha-douglas-sydnor-2020-10">Marsha Douglas-Sydnor's sunglasses brand is transforming the eyewear industry with shades that match almost every skintone</a></li><li><a href="https://www.insider.com/luminaries-rea-ann-silva-beautyblender-makeup-voting-election-2020-10">How Beautyblender CEO Rea Ann Silva went from a TV makeup artist gig to creating the iconic bubblegum pink sponge</a></li><li><a href="https://www.insider.com/luminaries-jackie-aina-beauty-inclusive-2020-10">Jackie Aina has taken the beauty industry by storm. The YouTube star isn't stopping there.</a></li></ul>

Megababe founder Katie Sturino wants to hear all about your thigh chafing, boob sweat, and body odor

<p></p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table click-to-enlarge"><div><div class="image on-image"><a title_source="Getty" title_caption="Meghan Markle seems pretty down-to-earth." class="zoomin" href="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/5a86a981d030722a008b4583-960/meghan%20makeup%20.jpg"><span class="sprites click-to-enlarge-icon" title="Click to enlarge"></span><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/5a86a981d030722a008b4583-2000/meghan%20makeup%20.jpg" alt="meghan makeup " data-mce-source="Getty" data-link="https://www.gettyimages.co.uk/license/906665902" /></a><p class="source"><span><a href="https://www.gettyimages.co.uk/license/906665902">Getty</a></span></p><p class="caption">Meghan Markle seems pretty down-to-earth.</p></div><p></p></div></div><ul><li><strong>People praise Meghan Markle for her apparent low-key attitude.</strong></li><li><strong>Her former&#xa0;hairstylist and makeup artist of two years said Markle has one rule when it comes to her beauty regime.</strong></li><li><strong>She doesn't like too much foundation and likes her freckles to "peek" through.</strong></li><li><strong>Her former stylist also revealed the products she used on the actress and predicted her wedding hair based on her style.&#xa0;</strong></li></ul><hr><p><br>The world has gone mad for Meghan Markle in the countdown to her&#xa0;<a href="http://uk.businessinsider.com/harry-meghan-royal-wedding-what-time-does-it-start-2018-2" target="_blank" rel="noopener">wedding to Prince Harry this May</a>, and her apparent sweet nature and low-key attitude has earned her countless fans both sides of the pond.</br></p><p>She's already proven she's willing to defy royal protocol in more ways than one, whether it's hugging a member of the public or something as simple as not wearing tights (rebel!).</p><p>And now her former hairstylist and makeup artist, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/lydiasellers_/">Lydia F. Sellers,</a> has revealed details about her beauty regime to <a href="http://www.refinery29.uk/2018/02/190231/meghan-markle-hair-makeup-routine-products" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Refinery29</a>&#xa0;- and it suggests she's just as low-maintenance in this department.</p><p>"Every time I'd do her makeup, she'd say, 'Can we just make sure my freckles are peeking through? I don't want a ton of foundation,'" Sellers said. "It was more about the amount of product that went on her skin and keeping it really fresh and dewy, rather than caking it on."</p><p>She added that she'd use Armani Luminous Silk Foundation with a <span>Beautyblender "because it's really easy to sheer out."</span></p><p>Markle has previously said that she dislikes it when her freckles are altered in photos.</p><p>"To this day, my pet peeve is when my skin tone is changed and my freckles are airbrushed out of a photo shoot," she <a href="https://www.allure.com/story/meghan-markle-racism-against-biracial-actresses" target="_blank" rel="noopener">told Allure.</a></p><p><span>And yet, in December of last year <a href="http://uk.businessinsider.com/elle-france-accused-photoshopping-meghan-markle-freckles-2017-12" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Elle France was accused </a>of having removed them from Markle's face on the magazine's December cover:</span></p><p>According to Sellers, Markle's look has barely changed since news broke that she was to become a royal.</p><p>"Even now, her look has stayed the same. She'll throw her hair back in a low bun and it actually looks like she's done it herself, and it's beautiful and chic because she's so confident. That's the great thing about Meghan - she's so confident with herself and her look, and she sticks with that."</p><p>It's impossible for anyone to know for sure how the "Suits" star's style will play out on her big day, but Sellers, who worked with Markle for two years, had one prediction for what she might go for with her wedding hair.</p><p>As it's going to be a very royal affair, Seller suggested Markle could opt for something elegant, such as a chignon. "You never know, but that would be my guess," she said.</p><p>However, Markle typically likes to wear her hair down, she explained. "That's the look she gravitates toward.</p><p>"It could be straight or wavy or anything else, but she likes it down. So if it wasn't a <em>royal</em> wedding, I think that's what she would do."</p><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ELLEenKiosque?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ELLEenKiosque</a> @meghanmarkle part à l'assaut de Buckingham cette semaine 👑 <a href="https://t.co/wZaLYeDtIK">pic.twitter.com/wZaLYeDtIK</a></p>- ELLE  (@ELLEfrance) <a href="https://twitter.com/mims/statuses/936152847674208257?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 30, 2017</a></blockquote><script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>    <div class="margin-top">        <h3>NOW WATCH: <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/roger-frampton-exercises-at-home-are-as-good-as-going-to-the-gym-2018-2">Movement coach Roger Frampton explains why exercising at home is as good as going to the gym</a></h3>        <div>            <iframe class="bijwplayerclass" data-player="jwplayer" src="https://content.jwplatform.com/players/ZaElro0V-CEZHWCBG.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" style="margin:0px;" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><script>function receiveMessage(event){ console.log(event.data.fullscreen); Android.fullscreen(event.data.fullscreen); }window.addEventListener("message", receiveMessage, false);</script>        </div>    </div></hr>

Meghan Markle's former makeup artist has revealed the one beauty rule the future royal always insists on - and she has a prediction for her wedding hairstyle

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