I’m an extremely pale redhead, with blue eyes and bright hair (which I’m super proud of, obviously). Because of these bright features, I don’t wear a ton of redhead makeup. I wear minimal makeup because I like doing it, I like the routine, and it makes me feel beautiful. Doing simple things like washing my face and putting on makeup makes my day better.
However, being a fair skinned redhead can have its challenges:
1. It’s really hard to find a foundation that doesn’t cost $30+, is pale enough for my skin, and doesn’t oxidize (turn orange) throughout the day.
2. It’s hard to find a brown eyeshadow that doesn’t make me look like I’ve been punched in the face. Everything has to be subtler and lighter because I’m so fair.
Luckily, I’ve found a few great products, all $30 or under. These are my ‘Redhead Friendly’ approved favorites in my makeup bag:
1.Maybelline Fit Me! Foundation in ‘Porcelain’ ($7.99, Shop now)
This foundation is, say it with me: $7.99. AMAZING, right? It’s also the only drugstore foundation I’ve found that doesn’t oxidize and is the correct amount of paleness for me. I will say this is super matte, which I love because my skin is quite oily in some places. However, for the price, this is definitely worth the purchase. Because it’s so matte, you don’t have to use a lot, so it lasts for ages. It’s pigmented enough that I don’t really have to use concealer, which I’m all for.
2. Revlon PhotoReady Translucent Finisher ($8, Shop now)
Every redhead should have a translucent powder in their makeup bag because it sets the makeup and makes you photo ready in seconds. This one, in particular, lasts for ages, blends well and sets your makeup (even with oily skin). It’s really natural-looking, as in it doesn’t sit on your skin and make you look powdery.
3. Urban Decay Naked Basics Eyeshadow Palette ($29, Shop now)
Who doesn’t love a versatile eyeshadow palette? I use the dark brown (shade ‘fade’) for my redhead eyebrows every single day — yes, I use eyeshadow for my brows — and the light brown (shade ‘naked 2’) is my favorite brown eyeshadow. It’s light enough to wear without making me look bruised. I even use the dark brown in the crease of my eye and it doesn’t look too intense! They’re high quality, super pigmented shadows.
4. L.A. Girl Strobing Powder in 110 Watt ($8, Shop now)
Get your glow on with this highlighter powder from L.A. Girl. It’s subtle and blends well enough that it doesn’t just sit on top of my skin. The 110 Watt shade that I use is a pale, champagne-y gold. If you’re looking for something a little darker or more obvious, I’d suggest this highlighter in 100 Watt or 60 Watt.
5. Sephora Clay Mask in Purple, ($8, Shop now)
Once or twice a week, I like to use a face mask to soothe the redness on my face. I also get whiteheads on my chin really easily. This clay mask comes in eight different varieties, depending on what you’re looking for. I am currently using the purple one on a weekly basis. It moisturizes and soothes my skin, leaving zero irritation.
No matter how much or how little makeup you like to use, remember that you are gorgeous! Rock it like a Redhead!
