I bought an expensive Lancôme serum mascara at Sephoras and the tube is basically empty with only a few dry clumps in it that fell like dust under my eyes leaving me with nothing on the lashes and dirty looking face.
It is rare to hear influencers acknowledge or discuss where products are made. It is something I am very cognizant of, and it informs my purchasing decisions, so it is refreshing to hear about it here . This is another reason why I loved your brand.
Many luxury items are made in Italy and some in USA. Mid level in USA and less expensive in China and Taiwan. Korea is taking off with their K Beauty and surpassing USA almost for some beauty items. Canada has a couple labs too and they're mid to luxury level. Poland also does great work- would say mid level.
I think it's because many influencers are not as aware as we would like to believe they are, and if they get to the level of them having their own brand then they've started doing content to preserve their income - not be completely upfront anymore, but that is just what I have witnessed from different influencers over the years and my opinion could definitely be debated.
Mascara, blushes, and lipsticks. Honestly, everything has an inexpensive counterpart that will work. With that being said, I swear by Nars Sheer Glow, but I received the most compliments when I wore Fit Me dewy, by both men and women.
I have sensitive eyes specifically when it comes to mascara, and high end does make a difference, unfortunately. I tried some of Tati's recommendations for drugstore options and hated them 😓 I already have long eyelashes, so they should've worked. I actually think Stila's Magnum XXX is highly underrated and doesn't deserve the poor review on ULTA.
PREACH girl! THIS is the kind of content we need now. I just listened to your podcast on The Sesh and even though Makeup Geek is no longer I’m still excited to see what’s in store for the future. I love that you stay humble and classy where so many others in your position haven’t. Keep doing the best 👊🩷
I just saw your comment right after I made mine and we said the exact same thing. Also saw her on The Sesh. This woman is the real deal. Fastest I’ve ever hit subscribe lol
Marlena, this video series is everything we need, especially right now! Here are a few interesting ideas to educate us on: 1) how a formula's ingredients are chosen (binders, moisture, thickeners, preservatives, etc) 2) how to tell what products may share manufacturers/be private labeled or the differences between in-house, ODM, OEM etc 3) how can you tell if a disappointing product is intentionally what the brand wanted (so just preference) vs actually being poor quality? Can't wait to see what 2023 has in store for you 🥰
Loved this! I worked with a cosmetic manufacturer here in So California and people would be surprised at the many, many brands that are produced in the same facility. Keep videos like this coming and happy to see you again. It has been a bit since I have seen you. Have a great weekend.
Okay this video is a GAME CHANGER! It's not often that I watch a RUclips video and get all brand new information that I haven't heard somewhere else, but this was packed full of so much helpful, new information. Thank you for making this!
Hot take, just being honest: almost no high end makeup products I've tried are truly worth the money for me. Are some of them noticeably better than their cheaper counterparts? Yes. But does that difference add enough value to my life to be worth the extra expense? No. That's just me though, and I understand that others have different makeup needs, standards, and care more about luxurious packaging than I do.
@@user-cv7iv4kq6z not always. I hated the Natasha Denona palette I got. Disappointing. But Beauty Bay delivers for me. I won't normally go above, say, Huda Beauty prices, because after that, the quality doesn't noticeably improve.
@@user-cv7iv4kq6zi find expensive eyeshadows to be among the least worth it (since colourpop and elf are already so good). Like sure the high end one might be better, but is it $40 better? Nah. Spend it on nice skincare instead!
@@theladynextdoor313Like yeah, high end products will contain better quality ingredients much of the time, but I don't find it makes a noticeable difference in the results.
Edit: June 2, 2023 Marc Jacobs Beauty is coming back! Not sure when, but sounds like a rebrand 😊 You mentioned the Marc Jacobs eyeliner and I am sooo sad that the makeup line no longer exists. The highliner was my #1 favorite eyeliner because it stayed put and didn't transfer to my contact lenses by the end of the day. 😢
I. Know. 😩I still have a few that I’m using bc they are in good condition, but I’m dreading the day I run out. I’ve found some pretty good ones (most at the drugstore), but still haven’t found a true Highliner dupe.
I know - I'm very careful with my Marc Jacobs eyebrow pencil. I only got 1 refill- the gel is still going. Not sure why the brand couldn't stay a float. What's funny is Tom Ford has makeup but never see any of his stuff advertise.
In regards to lip pencils, I have tiny lips so a good lip pencil really matters and makes a difference to me. It’s not just texture and lasting power but the shade is probably the most important if you are after that natural look. I’ve used urban decay, Lisa Eldridge, Mac, Vieve but my recent discovery is the NYX pencil, they have fantastic shades that match my lips perfectly and wear a decent amount of time, I’m picking these over all my others. Natural shades are, Natural, nude beige, truffle and spice. Perfect pencils for just £4.
Colourpop makes a wonderful lip liner. I use color Oh Snap for all lip looks. I have thin lips too and this helps so much. Also they sharpen really well and get sharp without breaking.
Same with me & mascara bc my eyelashes are so short & straight - I bought an Asian mascara recently that is pricier than the other drugstore ones I've tried & I think it's worth it :)
100% agree on the mascara situation. The type of wand makes the difference. I got rid of almost all of my makeup collection and now have curated quality items I use often. So much happier. Thanks for sharing! Yes, more in this series please. 🥰🥰
Girl, I'm going to need a tutorial on that eye look!! It's so gorgeous!!! And thank you so much for your honesty. I had already came to most of these same conclusions but it's nice to hear it from someone with actual experience with makeup formulation
Marlena thank you for the truth. You should write a book about how to shop smart. Also if you decide to go back into product development, can you make clean makeup line.
I really love lines like Juvia's place, the lip bar, Milani, and Black Radiance. They are great drugstore brands and inexpensive brands. They have great products from foundation to blush to lipstick and have a great shade range and they cater to ALL skin tones because most are Black-owned. And Black people know what it feels to be left out so we don't do that to others. I would love to see you review high-end and drugstore Black-owned brands from Danessa Myricks to Beauty Bakerie, Mented, and The Lip Bar, just to name a few.
I love Juvia’s Place foundations and I’m whiter than a blizzard. Those foundations cover everything. Not familiar with the others you mentioned, but I’ll definitely look out for them next time I’m out.
I have been in full-blown arguments with people who swear the mascara formula is what makes or breaks the product when there is SO much information that is out there that says differently - so I am looking forward to the video you do with the correct lash brush to use for the type of lashes you have. Sticking around for awhile just because you said you'd be doing that one! :)
Maybeline mascara makes my eyes itchy , it’s because of fibres are poking my eyeballs and eye lenses. In midday I cant wait to remove it. Can someone recommend mascara that doesnt so that?
recently tried the deborah milano dangerous curves mascara and I am shook. My lashes looks like beautiful fluttery falsies..trick with it is that you need to trust to applicator!! Don't apply it after trying to remove excess product because it takes too long and using a tissue is just wasting the product. Use a light hand while applying the mascara instead of intensely wiggling the applicator cause that will only give you spider lashes. I have decent lashes that is not visible without mascara, but the results are breathtaking every time. Such an underrated mascara!!
Marlena..this...video... WAS AMAZING. I'm recently getting back into makeup and have felt so lost, overwhelmed, and skeptical. This video was so concise, on point, and fair without making me want to give up on makeup all together. Thank you for this amazing content. I wish I had got to try some of your products but I have no doubt you will create another incredible brand in the future
I miss Makeup Geek shadows!!! 😢 love you Marlena! I am an EL Doublewear fan (63 years) I use chanel mascara & will save the spoolie to use on the other mascaras I didn't like.
Thanks for doing this & for your honesty & for looking out for us. I rarely, rarely ever buy hi-end of any product. I appreciate you being here with us !
Me: always splurging on mascara, lipstick and eyeliner because they are used on eyes and lips- more sensitive than rest of the face. I have both high end and drugstore foundations. I think the moisturiser, primer and application technique is more important than formulation when it comes to foundations and concealers. This video was very informative. This is something we as customers can't learn with just experience
Marlena still such a beautiful soul. Definitely would love to have more in this series and you're absolutely right about Natasha Denona's 28 pan palettes. She originally was teaching color theory and offering those palettes for her students before she was more mainstream in 2016 and as demand grew, she rolled out the midi size. Learned that through Alicia Archer (formerly Kinkysweat). Any make-up history actually would be interesting to me of just how things have evolved from conceptualization to fruition and eventually the closing of Makeup Geek what has changed, what do you wish changed, what do hope to see change?
Best mascara I’ve ever used hands down is the Liquid Lash Extension Mascara from Thrive Causemetics. It holds a curl, lengthens, and washes off so easily. At $24, it’s not the cheapest, but not the most expensive either. I feel very confident when I wear this mascara, no fake lashes required :)
This was good subject matter. I would love to hear you talk about how long it's safe to keep each makeup product type and when they should be thrown out. Thanks for the video!
Did you ever get a response to this question. I keep my makeup until i don’t want it anymore, I’m the only one that uses it. I would really like to hear her take on it her honest opinion. Can you believe if all of these Instagram people throw out all the makeup every two years or every three years how many makeup pallets are in the dump, they have thousands of products.🤷♀️
robert welsh has videos/has talked about this. look at the little jar icon on each makeup product and try to use them up in accordance with that. however, for makeup, those tend to be just guidelines. for example, i don’t know anyone who’s going through an entire eyeshadow palette in a year. so, powder products can generally be kept for longer than their expiry; as long as they’re not changing in smell, colour, function, causing adverse skin effects etc. while cream and liquid products you should try to use within a shorter timespan than powder ones
I adore you! I’ve been watching you since 2008! You taught me so much about technique. I love that we’re both in a stage of our life that we understand quality over quantity! Keep your videos coming bella ❤
Nowadays affordable foundations are doing so well they often outdo high ends. I especially recommand products from L'oreal groups such as Maybelline and L'oreal Paris. For example, L'oreal True Match Hyaluronic Acid Serum Foundation is so good that all the high end foundations I have are paled by comparison (I have around 10 high end foundations). There are also a couple of K-beauty and J-beauty products that are doing very well. I have reduced my purchase of high end foundations in recent years.
What an amazing video Marlena! I love videos like this. I trust you. Not only because you owned MG but because you put time, effort and your hard earned money into your products. What you bring to the table is much more valuable because you’ve seen the labs, you’ve created products and you had your eyes on all of it. And that for me stands out a lot more than say an influencer who gets PR.
As usual your video is informative and educational. You’re right about Makeup Geek eyeshadows, I have all of them and sure hope that you are back in business in the future. Thank you so much for still caring about your followers and members of the makeup community.
Marlena you look so beautiful all the time and as if you are reversing in age. Can you please consider doing a video on the best way to hide melasma? I know not much can be done about it I have researched it a lot. But I was thinking you would know best on the best ways to cover it. I pray one day you come out with foundations!! Still using your eyeshadows - now that was true quality.. love you gorgeous! xoxo.
These videos are so much more helpful than any other makeup related videos on the internet anywhere. This is all straight to the point precise information that you really do need to know.
Thank u for that! I would also love to know regarding the real expiring date! Sometimes you buy a very expensive product but it only last 6-12 months (depending on product). Thank you❤
DiorShow came about from Pat McGrath using toothbrushes to apply mascara at Dior shows in the late 90s or early 00s. It was literally about the application tool vs the formula.
Best foundations are Korean high end Cushion foundations, they are super hydrating and natural gives a glass skin effect and it actually helps enhance skin texture and brilliant coverage and texture feels luscious as well , highly recommend Korean Cushion foundation
Please, please, please do a series on TRUE safe non-toxic cosmetics. Ulta and Sephora label so many products as “clean ingredients” and they are far from it. Any product with fragrance (even “natural”) is highly toxic. There are plenty of women in the non-tox community who review cosmetics but you know and understand cosmetics on another level 🙌🏼🙌🏼
Hi Marlena! I do agree that diorshow blackout and loreal voluminous carbon black are amazing! Are they dupes? No. Loreal is even better and lash paradise my top of the top.
I love this very honest video. Everything you say is so true! I never buy high-end mascaras, I always find a good one in drugstores. And I don't want to spend money on a packaging just because it looks good. I prefer a good drugstore quality. And I would never buy any highlighter! It's not only not the money worth, it just is not necessary, because you always have at least one glittery colour in a eyeshadow palette that you may don't like for your eyes but that works perfectly as a highlighter.
The mascara wand makes a big difference, and so does primer. I bought JOAH, a $9 primer from Amazon & I received 2 for price of 1. I was so distraught with my results with ANY mascara I used. It never looked good no matter what brand or promise on the package, the results were awful on me. This primer changed everything. When I apply this primer it goes on so fast and easy, separates my lashes, doesn't clump, and then it doesn't matter what mascara I use _ it will quickly "attach to" the primer lashing out my eyelashes with length & volume!! So effortlessly! The results are totally from the primer _ no work from me. This stuff is awesome. I love it!
Great video. I agree with you regarding ColourPop. I am using MakeUp Geek shadows sparingly. My nine will last me forever. I really thought I over paid for my MAC highlighter. I feel much better.
omg - your point about the mascara I had no idea about. I have pretty long but straight lashes and I always found that cheaper mascaras worked the best, when I bought the too face mascara I was so confused why it didn't work because everyone raved about it and this explains it tyyy!!!
I'll say it quickly- fantastic series, I'd absolutely love to see more. Also, great video- knowledgeable, on point, honest. What more could we ask for?! 😘
I've been following these criterias for ages and seeing you having the same thought process as me just makes me so happy. When you said "highlighters are just eye shados in bigger pans" I had to smile because that is my literal only option: I have albinism so literally ANY highlighter that has a tiny bit of pigment is going to show up on me so I literally only use eye shadows for that, and obviously it's frustrating because the sparkle density is SO high compared to a regular face highlighter. THANK YOU for sharing your knowledge and experience with us mere mortals to spend our money more wisely
Even YEARS later, I'm STILL learning so much from you Marlena! You're extremely knowledgeable and I trust you and your opinions! This was a fantastic video and I'll definitely be checking out the rest of the series! I'm getting older, so I also go for quality over quantity. Plus, it is wonderful knowing exactly where I should be concentrating my money! Again, this was great, I appreciate it and what you always bring to us! I don't know if you've done any type of skin care series, but maybe in the future if you haven't, or an updated one?! Thank you so much for sharing! Love ya girl! 😘🤗💄
As someone with oily skin/hooded lids, i've only found 2 mascaras that don't transfer on me - loreal lash paradise waterproof and maybelline sky high waterproof. Never found a black eye pencil that doesn't transfer.
These tips are freakin' helpful, Marlena! I don't like being duped into spending more money than necessary on higher-end brands, when virtually the same thing is available in affordable, drugstore cosmetics! I don't get caught up on pretty packaging; I'm interested in trying to make my older, outer packaging prettier! I'm mindful of ingredients, like talc, and the risks of it being contaminated with asbestos so I tend not to purchase extremely cheap makeup. It would be helpful if you could further educate us on additional ingredients so we can avoid problematic components that may be risky to our health, long-term. I've rarely splurged on expensive mascaras, and I use higher-end foundations, although I have had good ones from L'Oréal, and Revlon in the past. Last Spring was my first time trying Lancôme's Teint I'dole (after my Too Faced Peach Perfect was discontinued); it will certainly be a repeat buy! I, too, really enjoy Huda Beauty's shadow palettes, along with other mid to higher priced ones. I just can't, and won't justify spending the terribly high prices on palettes from Pat McGrath ($174.00 Can+ for 10 pan palettes!!), Natasha Denona ($170.00 Can+ for15 shadows), Dior ($80.00 Can+ for quads), etc.; thankfully there are brands that offer great shadows at my preferred price point! Here in Canada, the added shipping, exchange rates, duties, taxes etc. we pay for expensive cosmetics not easily available locally, can actually be downright painful! I look forward to hearing even more tips about what we should be careful of when purchasing our makeup, and skincare from an incredibly experienced, and knowledgeable 'insider' such as yourself! Have a lovely week, Beautiful! Love, and hugs, Marlena, Sherrey 💕☃☃💕
I was shocked that you chose splurge for Highlighters but this makes me feel better about my buying decisions. I always thought that Sephora Collection & Nyx lip pencils are really good. Havent found a drugstore mascara I like yet but want to try the viral Telescopic one soon :) My favourite eyeliner is the h2o by Wet n Wild. Super black eyeliner.
Nars foundations always oxidize on me. Is the Lisa Eldridge foundation worth it? It is said that it was developed from bottom up. I’m 56 and would love to see videos for those of us over 40. I want to look chic, not boring
Marlena I love these videos on what products to spend or save money on, but I am mesmerized by your gold earrings. Can you let us know where they are from?
Absolutely loved this video! It was so fascinating hearing your perspective from manufacturing and knowing the other side of the industry. Would love to see more videos like this!
I was late to the party but I got my hands on a couple when she announced the closure and I love them! I have many pallets and now I'm liking singles. I have been building my collection from Sydney Grace. But I just checked the MG website and it's still open with a few items so I bought 4 sets of lashes for $2!! Some brushes and liners.
I agree about mascaras EXCEPT for thrive causemetics! I have yet to find a mascara that does what the thrive one does. It has these little fibers that seriously lengthen and fill the lashes. There are other fiber or "tubing" ones but for me the thrive one doesn't smudge or run! Love this video and this type of content 💙
My favorite makeup brand for me( I’m 54, few wrinkles, combo skin) is Bobbi Brown. It’s not cheap but everything is good quality and worth the splurge. I shop 2x a year and used ally try to stock up when there is a sale at Nordstrom or Sephora. I do like some drugstore makeup, L’Oréal is good, Milani is good, Elf is good and Maybelline lipsticks. I have never found a drugstore brand of eyeshadow that is as good as Bobbi Brown. The cream stick shadows are wonderful, and I have a couple of their powder shadow palettes that are very blendable and pigmented. I do not like Bobbi Brown mascara. My favorite is Lancôme Idole or L’Oréal telescopic or Benefit They’re Real. But mascara is one of those things you can but drugstore and find a good one. Elf putty blush in Bora Bora is a dupe for the Bobbi Brown Pot Rouge in Pale Pink. I won’t be buying the Bobbi Brown one any longer. That saves me $27 as the putty blush is only $7 and the pot rouge is $34
She’s definitely spot on about the mascaras, most of my disappointments have been with expensive “high end” mascaras. I will say that while any L’Oréal mascara delivers results, they irritate my eyes so bad. I’m a fan of Pixi brand. I find them at Walgreens or Target
I love your videos! I appreciate that you take the time to tell us, the consumer, the truth. Your reviews and opinions matter more because you have years of direct experience in the makeup industry. Thank you!
She’s totally right. When it comes to mascaras, pencils, lipsticks - the drugstore makes pretty good products. Foundation and powder - always high end
It is incredible...
yup, my cheap eyebrows, pencil liner, and eyeshadow its good. but foundation is terible....
I can never bring myself to term to buy a high end mascara😂
For me mascara is important too
I bought an expensive Lancôme serum mascara at Sephoras and the tube is basically empty with only a few dry clumps in it that fell like dust under my eyes leaving me with nothing on the lashes and dirty looking face.
She’s the only content creator who can talk fast without sounding annoying
It is rare to hear influencers acknowledge or discuss where products are made. It is something I am very cognizant of, and it informs my purchasing decisions, so it is refreshing to hear about it here . This is another reason why I loved your brand.
Many luxury items are made in Italy and some in USA. Mid level in USA and less expensive in China and Taiwan. Korea is taking off with their K Beauty and surpassing USA almost for some beauty items. Canada has a couple labs too and they're mid to luxury level. Poland also does great work- would say mid level.
I think it's because many influencers are not as aware as we would like to believe they are, and if they get to the level of them having their own brand then they've started doing content to preserve their income - not be completely upfront anymore, but that is just what I have witnessed from different influencers over the years and my opinion could definitely be debated.
Tarababyz always says where each product is made, love that she does that.
So fascinating and informative...
The best mascara does not smudge und does not crumble at the beginning.
Saving money is EVERYTHING right now.
"Blunt" + Brand developer + experience with chemists and labs = Trustworth. Thank you, Marlena!! 💛
Amazing. Really helpful and good.
Exactly! Marlena has the best insight!
Marlena could you do a similar video about makeup brushes?
i.e. which brushes we should splurge or save on?
I haven’t tried Elf yet, but the reviews are good and price is very affordable.
Mascara, blushes, and lipsticks. Honestly, everything has an inexpensive counterpart that will work. With that being said, I swear by Nars Sheer Glow, but I received the most compliments when I wore Fit Me dewy, by both men and women.
I love fit me dewy and smooth!!
I have sensitive eyes specifically when it comes to mascara, and high end does make a difference, unfortunately. I tried some of Tati's recommendations for drugstore options and hated them 😓 I already have long eyelashes, so they should've worked. I actually think Stila's Magnum XXX is highly underrated and doesn't deserve the poor review on ULTA.
I’ve worn fit me since it came out in 2010 and I would get sooo many compliments
I am a double wear fan. BUT I’ve recently tried a fit me Matt and poreless - I LOVE it. The colour match is better. And it stays almost as well !!!
fit me is a go to for me and I have been using it for years!
PREACH girl! THIS is the kind of content we need now. I just listened to your podcast on The Sesh and even though Makeup Geek is no longer I’m still excited to see what’s in store for the future. I love that you stay humble and classy where so many others in your position haven’t. Keep doing the best 👊🩷
She's very thorough and detailed
I just saw your comment right after I made mine and we said the exact same thing. Also saw her on The Sesh. This woman is the real deal. Fastest I’ve ever hit subscribe lol
Marlena, this video series is everything we need, especially right now!
Here are a few interesting ideas to educate us on:
1) how a formula's ingredients are chosen (binders, moisture, thickeners, preservatives, etc)
2) how to tell what products may share manufacturers/be private labeled or the differences between in-house, ODM, OEM etc
3) how can you tell if a disappointing product is intentionally what the brand wanted (so just preference) vs actually being poor quality?
Can't wait to see what 2023 has in store for you 🥰
Yes! This series is great!
Yesss!! We need this to be a video series!
I’m curious to hear your thoughts on colourpop’s “fast makeup” practices and other brands that are releasing new things every week.
Loved this video and this content from you! It’s so helpful!
Loved this! I worked with a cosmetic manufacturer here in So California and people would be surprised at the many, many brands that are produced in the same facility. Keep videos like this coming and happy to see you again. It has been a bit since I have seen you. Have a great weekend.
love that she gets straight to the point.
Indie eyeshadows are also a good option for mid tier or affordable pricing. Some of the formulas knock luxury brands out of the water.
Can you recommend good matte eyeshadow? Thks
SO true!!
Hellllls yeh! Indie ftw ❤
I love Iby beauty, their formula is amazing, really good
Alamar cosmetics eyeshadows are sooo good
Okay this video is a GAME CHANGER! It's not often that I watch a RUclips video and get all brand new information that I haven't heard somewhere else, but this was packed full of so much helpful, new information. Thank you for making this!
Hot take, just being honest: almost no high end makeup products I've tried are truly worth the money for me. Are some of them noticeably better than their cheaper counterparts? Yes. But does that difference add enough value to my life to be worth the extra expense? No. That's just me though, and I understand that others have different makeup needs, standards, and care more about luxurious packaging than I do.
What about high end eyeshadows though? I find they’re easier to blend ..
@@user-cv7iv4kq6z not always. I hated the Natasha Denona palette I got. Disappointing. But Beauty Bay delivers for me. I won't normally go above, say, Huda Beauty prices, because after that, the quality doesn't noticeably improve.
@@user-cv7iv4kq6zi find expensive eyeshadows to be among the least worth it (since colourpop and elf are already so good). Like sure the high end one might be better, but is it $40 better? Nah. Spend it on nice skincare instead!
Agreed. Almost all high end cosmetics aren’t really worth it. Unless for just wanting very specific fancier packaging, the formulas are not superior.
@@theladynextdoor313Like yeah, high end products will contain better quality ingredients much of the time, but I don't find it makes a noticeable difference in the results.
Edit: June 2, 2023 Marc Jacobs Beauty is coming back! Not sure when, but sounds like a rebrand 😊
You mentioned the Marc Jacobs eyeliner and I am sooo sad that the makeup line no longer exists. The highliner was my #1 favorite eyeliner because it stayed put and didn't transfer to my contact lenses by the end of the day. 😢
I know!! THEY were so GOOD! I miss those Highliner pencils.
They are sooo interesting...
That formula is still my favorite I have ever tried. I’ve used many price points and none of them had the same longevity and wearability.
I. Know. 😩I still have a few that I’m using bc they are in good condition, but I’m dreading the day I run out. I’ve found some pretty good ones (most at the drugstore), but still haven’t found a true Highliner dupe.
I know - I'm very careful with my Marc Jacobs eyebrow pencil. I only got 1 refill- the gel is still going. Not sure why the brand couldn't stay a float. What's funny is Tom Ford has makeup but never see any of his stuff advertise.
In regards to lip pencils, I have tiny lips so a good lip pencil really matters and makes a difference to me. It’s not just texture and lasting power but the shade is probably the most important if you are after that natural look. I’ve used urban decay, Lisa Eldridge, Mac, Vieve but my recent discovery is the NYX pencil, they have fantastic shades that match my lips perfectly and wear a decent amount of time, I’m picking these over all my others. Natural shades are, Natural, nude beige, truffle and spice. Perfect pencils for just £4.
NYX Slim Lip Pencil in Nude Beige is literally the best natural lip liner I’ve ever used. The color is so good! And it’s only $5!
Oh thanks, I’ve been looking for a good lip liner, I’ll give NYX a try!
@@teresas8173 it’s always sold out so try to order online if nothing else! Awesome!
Colourpop makes a wonderful lip liner. I use color Oh Snap for all lip looks. I have thin lips too and this helps so much. Also they sharpen really well and get sharp without breaking.
Same with me & mascara bc my eyelashes are so short & straight - I bought an Asian mascara recently that is pricier than the other drugstore ones I've tried & I think it's worth it :)
100% agree on the mascara situation. The type of wand makes the difference. I got rid of almost all of my makeup collection and now have curated quality items I use often. So much happier. Thanks for sharing! Yes, more in this series please. 🥰🥰
would you mind sharing some of your favourites? :)
Same! I cut out my collection and only keep things that I love and use often :)
Essence Lash Princess, Maybelline Sky High, Benefit Bad Gal Bang, Loreal Telescopic.
@Amy Lewis Maybelline Sky High is great! My eyelashes are short and straight and this mascara works magic on them.
Brighten your smile with love...
I appreciate a moral attitude as we don't always care and we should.
Girl, I'm going to need a tutorial on that eye look!! It's so gorgeous!!! And thank you so much for your honesty. I had already came to most of these same conclusions but it's nice to hear it from someone with actual experience with makeup formulation
Love in the future...
Most educated person on RUclips. That is also very honest and humble
To
Thats what I was about to say here.her eye make up is just wow
I'm so tired of wasting money. I just found you and immediately subscribed. Thank you
Marlena thank you for the truth. You should write a book about how to shop smart. Also if you decide to go back into product development, can you make clean makeup line.
I really love lines like Juvia's place, the lip bar, Milani, and Black Radiance. They are great drugstore brands and inexpensive brands. They have great products from foundation to blush to lipstick and have a great shade range and they cater to ALL skin tones because most are Black-owned. And Black people know what it feels to be left out so we don't do that to others. I would love to see you review high-end and drugstore Black-owned brands from Danessa Myricks to Beauty Bakerie, Mented, and The Lip Bar, just to name a few.
Yes, I noticed she didn’t mention these brands and I am interested in seeing a video of her trying them
I love Juvia’s Place foundations and I’m whiter than a blizzard. Those foundations cover everything. Not familiar with the others you mentioned, but I’ll definitely look out for them next time I’m out.
I love Milani’s mascaras. They’re all I buy now.
I have been in full-blown arguments with people who swear the mascara formula is what makes or breaks the product when there is SO much information that is out there that says differently - so I am looking forward to the video you do with the correct lash brush to use for the type of lashes you have. Sticking around for awhile just because you said you'd be doing that one! :)
This video is extremely helpful...
I only look for the wands with bristle type brushes not the plastic! Always works better for me.
Complete rubbish. As long as it's a decent formula it's fine - the brush is the thing (& some kinds are better than others for certain ppl 🙏🇬🇧
Maybeline mascara makes my eyes itchy , it’s because of fibres are poking my eyeballs and eye lenses. In midday I cant wait to remove it. Can someone recommend mascara that doesnt so that?
Lash Princess had me shooketh. 7 dollars and one of the BEST mascaras I've used.
Would you ever do a video on your fav cruelty free makeup?
Yes...Please!!
recently tried the deborah milano dangerous curves mascara and I am shook. My lashes looks like beautiful fluttery falsies..trick with it is that you need to trust to applicator!! Don't apply it after trying to remove excess product because it takes too long and using a tissue is just wasting the product. Use a light hand while applying the mascara instead of intensely wiggling the applicator cause that will only give you spider lashes. I have decent lashes that is not visible without mascara, but the results are breathtaking every time. Such an underrated mascara!!
Marlena..this...video... WAS AMAZING. I'm recently getting back into makeup and have felt so lost, overwhelmed, and skeptical. This video was so concise, on point, and fair without making me want to give up on makeup all together. Thank you for this amazing content. I wish I had got to try some of your products but I have no doubt you will create another incredible brand in the future
I love your face...
I miss Makeup Geek shadows!!! 😢 love you Marlena!
I am an EL Doublewear fan (63 years) I use chanel mascara & will save the spoolie to use on the other mascaras I didn't like.
Thanks for doing this & for your honesty & for looking out for us. I rarely, rarely ever buy hi-end of any product.
I appreciate you being here with us !
Thank you so much Lena!! That's my mom's name - love it :)
Me: always splurging on mascara, lipstick and eyeliner because they are used on eyes and lips- more sensitive than rest of the face. I have both high end and drugstore foundations. I think the moisturiser, primer and application technique is more important than formulation when it comes to foundations and concealers. This video was very informative. This is something we as customers can't learn with just experience
Marlena still such a beautiful soul. Definitely would love to have more in this series and you're absolutely right about Natasha Denona's 28 pan palettes. She originally was teaching color theory and offering those palettes for her students before she was more mainstream in 2016 and as demand grew, she rolled out the midi size. Learned that through Alicia Archer (formerly Kinkysweat). Any make-up history actually would be interesting to me of just how things have evolved from conceptualization to fruition and eventually the closing of Makeup Geek what has changed, what do you wish changed, what do hope to see change?
Love your teeth.
What are your thoughts on morphe Eyeshadows?
Best mascara I’ve ever used hands down is the Liquid Lash Extension Mascara from Thrive Causemetics. It holds a curl, lengthens, and washes off so easily. At $24, it’s not the cheapest, but not the most expensive either. I feel very confident when I wear this mascara, no fake lashes required :)
This was good subject matter. I would love to hear you talk about how long it's safe to keep each makeup product type and when they should be thrown out. Thanks for the video!
Did you ever get a response to this question. I keep my makeup until i don’t want it anymore, I’m the only one that uses it. I would really like to hear her take on it her honest opinion. Can you believe if all of these Instagram people throw out all the makeup every two years or every three years how many makeup pallets are in the dump, they have thousands of products.🤷♀️
its says on the product it has a pic of a jar and a number next to it that is the shelf life after opening - 🫙12 -means 1 year
i keep mine until it becomes obviously expired. product looks or applies bad
robert welsh has videos/has talked about this. look at the little jar icon on each makeup product and try to use them up in accordance with that. however, for makeup, those tend to be just guidelines. for example, i don’t know anyone who’s going through an entire eyeshadow palette in a year. so, powder products can generally be kept for longer than their expiry; as long as they’re not changing in smell, colour, function, causing adverse skin effects etc. while cream and liquid products you should try to use within a shorter timespan than powder ones
Yes, please do continue this series...
My questions for future videos are your opinions about;
Concealers
Setting Powders
Bronzers
Contour
Primers
Brow products
L'Oréal Voluminous always runs on me! Literally the only mascara I've used that's ever done that on me!
Nothing beats Wet and Wild Photo Focus foundation , Ive tried all the high end always go back to Wet and Wild. Im 61
Yes! Totally 💯 agree!
Everyone who wears or buys makeup should watch this video! Thank you for your honest content!
Great work is love.
I'm so glad you mentioned Viseart. I love that most of their palettes have removable pans that can be replaced individually.
Love this series. And happy to know Color pop is a good brand. I like their eyeshadow palettes.
Choose a job you love.
Work a day in your life...
YESSSSSS!!! This is the kind of REAL content beauty on RUclips needs!!! 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
I adore you! I’ve been watching you since 2008! You taught me so much about technique. I love that we’re both in a stage of our life that we understand quality over quantity! Keep your videos coming bella ❤
Aww thank you Anna! So glad you're still with me after all these years :) xoxo
Loved you as a baby.
Nowadays affordable foundations are doing so well they often outdo high ends. I especially recommand products from L'oreal groups such as Maybelline and L'oreal Paris. For example, L'oreal True Match Hyaluronic Acid Serum Foundation is so good that all the high end foundations I have are paled by comparison (I have around 10 high end foundations). There are also a couple of K-beauty and J-beauty products that are doing very well. I have reduced my purchase of high end foundations in recent years.
What an amazing video Marlena! I love videos like this. I trust you. Not only because you owned MG but because you put time, effort and your hard earned money into your products. What you bring to the table is much more valuable because you’ve seen the labs, you’ve created products and you had your eyes on all of it. And that for me stands out a lot more than say an influencer who gets PR.
Thank you so much Sharla!! I truly LOVE what I do. I feel blessed to get to have the job I have, so thank you!!
Love this series !
Def want to know more about the mascara wands! I’m 52 and I like my lashes thick! I do order high end lipstick because I can search the formula.
As usual your video is informative and educational. You’re right about Makeup Geek eyeshadows, I have all of them and sure hope that you are back in business in the future. Thank you so much for still caring about your followers and members of the makeup community.
This was fascinating !!!
Marlena you look so beautiful all the time and as if you are reversing in age. Can you please consider doing a video on the best way to hide melasma? I know not much can be done about it I have researched it a lot. But I was thinking you would know best on the best ways to cover it. I pray one day you come out with foundations!! Still using your eyeshadows - now that was true quality.. love you gorgeous! xoxo.
Loreal Voluminous is my favorite! 😍 I've been using it for years! Amazing product 💯
These videos are so much more helpful than any other makeup related videos on the internet anywhere. This is all straight to the point precise information that you really do need to know.
Love this series and all ur videos! So happy ur making videos again! And nothing compares to makeup geek shadows! ❤❤
Yes please videos like this coming. ❤
I don’t like them my colours were dusty and were finishing faster than Mac
xoxoxoxo
Your eyes and eyebrows look great.
Learning a lot from this video.
Thank u for that! I would also love to know regarding the real expiring date! Sometimes you buy a very expensive product but it only last 6-12 months (depending on product). Thank you❤
I am LOVING this new content Marlena. Thank you for your words of wisdom.
Me too. I love the science behind it.
I like your job so much.
Immediately subscribed when I realized who this was. Will believe her in a heartbeat. Love you!
DiorShow came about from Pat McGrath using toothbrushes to apply mascara at Dior shows in the late 90s or early 00s. It was literally about the application tool vs the formula.
Best foundations are Korean high end Cushion foundations, they are super hydrating and natural gives a glass skin effect and it actually helps enhance skin texture and brilliant coverage and texture feels luscious as well , highly recommend Korean Cushion foundation
Please, please, please do a series on TRUE safe non-toxic cosmetics. Ulta and Sephora label so many products as “clean ingredients” and they are far from it. Any product with fragrance (even “natural”) is highly toxic. There are plenty of women in the non-tox community who review cosmetics but you know and understand cosmetics on another level 🙌🏼🙌🏼
Loved it, I learned a lot.
Hi Marlena! I do agree that diorshow blackout and loreal voluminous carbon black are amazing! Are they dupes? No. Loreal is even better and lash paradise my top of the top.
These videos are literally LIFE SAVING for my pockets! Thank you so much Marlena! Please keep these amazing videos coming!! 😍🙌🏻💞
I love your job.
What is the glitter product on your eyes?? Stunning!!
I love this very honest video. Everything you say is so true! I never buy high-end mascaras, I always find a good one in drugstores. And I don't want to spend money on a packaging just because it looks good. I prefer a good drugstore quality. And I would never buy any highlighter! It's not only not the money worth, it just is not necessary, because you always have at least one glittery colour in a eyeshadow palette that you may don't like for your eyes but that works perfectly as a highlighter.
The mascara wand makes a big difference, and so does primer. I bought JOAH, a $9 primer from Amazon & I received 2 for price of 1. I was so distraught with my results with ANY mascara I used. It never looked good no matter what brand or promise on the package, the results were awful on me. This primer changed everything. When I apply this primer it goes on so fast and easy, separates my lashes, doesn't clump, and then it doesn't matter what mascara I use _ it will quickly "attach to" the primer lashing out my eyelashes with length & volume!! So effortlessly! The results are totally from the primer _ no work from me. This stuff is awesome. I love it!
Great video. I agree with you regarding ColourPop. I am using MakeUp Geek shadows sparingly. My nine will last me forever. I really thought I over paid for my MAC highlighter. I feel much better.
My makeup geek eyeshadows are my go to shades. They are a great formula. ❤
Marlena, you are the BEST! Thank you for sharing these tips for cosmetics, especially as a woman in the business. 😊 We all adore you 🥰💗💖
omg - your point about the mascara I had no idea about. I have pretty long but straight lashes and I always found that cheaper mascaras worked the best, when I bought the too face mascara I was so confused why it didn't work because everyone raved about it and this explains it tyyy!!!
I'll say it quickly- fantastic series, I'd absolutely love to see more. Also, great video- knowledgeable, on point, honest. What more could we ask for?! 😘
Love is like the ocean...
I've been following these criterias for ages and seeing you having the same thought process as me just makes me so happy. When you said "highlighters are just eye shados in bigger pans" I had to smile because that is my literal only option: I have albinism so literally ANY highlighter that has a tiny bit of pigment is going to show up on me so I literally only use eye shadows for that, and obviously it's frustrating because the sparkle density is SO high compared to a regular face highlighter. THANK YOU for sharing your knowledge and experience with us mere mortals to spend our money more wisely
Even YEARS later, I'm STILL learning so much from you Marlena! You're extremely knowledgeable and I trust you and your opinions! This was a fantastic video and I'll definitely be checking out the rest of the series! I'm getting older, so I also go for quality over quantity. Plus, it is wonderful knowing exactly where I should be concentrating my money! Again, this was great, I appreciate it and what you always bring to us! I don't know if you've done any type of skin care series, but maybe in the future if you haven't, or an updated one?! Thank you so much for sharing! Love ya girl! 😘🤗💄
I can definitely do a skincare video! :)
Besties love...
SUCH. GOOD. INFO!. It’s nice to look good. It’s good to be smart about it, Beauty and brains- the best combo.
Essence Pure Nude Highlighter #10 is a great subtle drugstore highlighter.
Agree , wearing it today ✨
Girl SPOT ON for that Loreal voluminous mascara it’s my go to best ever!!!!
I always appreciate your honesty and insight Marlena. 💗
As someone with oily skin/hooded lids, i've only found 2 mascaras that don't transfer on me - loreal lash paradise waterproof and maybelline sky high waterproof. Never found a black eye pencil that doesn't transfer.
Set your eyeliner with a black shadow works every single time I have been doing that for years.
These tips are freakin' helpful, Marlena! I don't like being duped into spending more money than necessary on higher-end brands, when virtually the same thing is available in affordable, drugstore cosmetics! I don't get caught up on pretty packaging; I'm interested in trying to make my older, outer packaging prettier! I'm mindful of ingredients, like talc, and the risks of it being contaminated with asbestos so I tend not to purchase extremely cheap makeup. It would be helpful if you could further educate us on additional ingredients so we can avoid problematic components that may be risky to our health, long-term. I've rarely splurged on expensive mascaras, and I use higher-end foundations, although I have had good ones from L'Oréal, and Revlon in the past. Last Spring was my first time trying Lancôme's Teint I'dole (after my Too Faced Peach Perfect was discontinued); it will certainly be a repeat buy! I, too, really enjoy Huda Beauty's shadow palettes, along with other mid to higher priced ones. I just can't, and won't justify spending the terribly high prices on palettes from Pat McGrath ($174.00 Can+ for 10 pan palettes!!), Natasha Denona ($170.00 Can+ for15 shadows), Dior ($80.00 Can+ for quads), etc.; thankfully there are brands that offer great shadows at my preferred price point! Here in Canada, the added shipping, exchange rates, duties, taxes etc. we pay for expensive cosmetics not easily available locally, can actually be downright painful! I look forward to hearing even more tips about what we should be careful of when purchasing our makeup, and skincare from an incredibly experienced, and knowledgeable 'insider' such as yourself! Have a lovely week, Beautiful! Love, and hugs, Marlena, Sherrey 💕☃☃💕
Love your work.
Wonderful...
Lash Sensational is my holy grail and I'm normally a sucker for high-end makeup
I was shocked that you chose splurge for Highlighters but this makes me feel better about my buying decisions. I always thought that Sephora Collection & Nyx lip pencils are really good. Havent found a drugstore mascara I like yet but want to try the viral Telescopic one soon :) My favourite eyeliner is the h2o by Wet n Wild. Super black eyeliner.
OG youtubber always giving us the real tea!! This video was so informative Ty for your professional insight!
Nars foundations always oxidize on me. Is the Lisa Eldridge foundation worth it? It is said that it was developed from bottom up. I’m 56 and would love to see videos for those of us over 40. I want to look chic, not boring
1st time I have heard one of ur videos. It was great!
I love your videos ,and your honesty, I love your eyeshadows. I have 6 of your pallets and 3 blushes, and your brushes are awesome too!❤
Marlena I love these videos on what products to spend or save money on, but I am mesmerized by your gold earrings. Can you let us know where they are from?
Absolutely loved this video! It was so fascinating hearing your perspective from manufacturing and knowing the other side of the industry. Would love to see more videos like this!
Liked your video very much, very informative. You didn’t mention blushes though. Would really love to hear your opinion about blushes as well.
I love the videos you have been uploading 🥰 very informative
I agree in the mascara. Plus I throw it out after 5 to 6 months.
I love this series!!! Please do more!! And you are amazing for trying to help us be more informed!!
I love your comments...
I love MG eyeshadows. I bought so many a few years back and still use them.
I was late to the party but I got my hands on a couple when she announced the closure and I love them!
I have many pallets and now I'm liking singles. I have been building my collection from Sydney Grace.
But I just checked the MG website and it's still open with a few items so I bought 4 sets of lashes for $2!! Some brushes and liners.
I agree about mascaras EXCEPT for thrive causemetics! I have yet to find a mascara that does what the thrive one does. It has these little fibers that seriously lengthen and fill the lashes. There are other fiber or "tubing" ones but for me the thrive one doesn't smudge or run! Love this video and this type of content 💙
I've been watching since the beginning and the glow up is impressive really gorg.
What shades are on your eyes? 😍
My favorite makeup brand for me( I’m 54, few wrinkles, combo skin) is Bobbi Brown. It’s not cheap but everything is good quality and worth the splurge. I shop 2x a year and used ally try to stock up when there is a sale at Nordstrom or Sephora. I do like some drugstore makeup, L’Oréal is good, Milani is good, Elf is good and Maybelline lipsticks. I have never found a drugstore brand of eyeshadow that is as good as Bobbi Brown. The cream stick shadows are wonderful, and I have a couple of their powder shadow palettes that are very blendable and pigmented. I do not like Bobbi Brown mascara. My favorite is Lancôme Idole or L’Oréal telescopic or Benefit They’re Real. But mascara is one of those things you can but drugstore and find a good one. Elf putty blush in Bora Bora is a dupe for the Bobbi Brown Pot Rouge in Pale Pink. I won’t be buying the Bobbi Brown one any longer. That saves me $27 as the putty blush is only $7 and the pot rouge is $34
I love your energy Marlena!
She’s definitely spot on about the mascaras, most of my disappointments have been with expensive “high end” mascaras.
I will say that while any L’Oréal mascara delivers results, they irritate my eyes so bad. I’m a fan of Pixi brand. I find them at Walgreens or Target
I love your videos! I appreciate that you take the time to tell us, the consumer, the truth. Your reviews and opinions matter more because you have years of direct experience in the makeup industry. Thank you!
No problem! Thanks so much Heidi!! xoxo
Hi Marlins!!! I missed watching your videos!!! You are one of the few real ones!! ❤
Fabulous advice and insight! Thank you ❤😊
Marlyin,
You are so beautiful and kind. I love the eyeshadow you are wearing.
Marlena, I love this series. Thank you for your honest input.
Great advice. Thank you
Thank you so much for this series!! Love all your wisdom and experience when you explain your opinions!
Love this.
I think splurge on brushes. I have never found a cheap brush that I like