What's your best advice for someone in a makeup rut?

First, depending on how long it’s been going on, it might just be a good time to take a break and enjoy it (rather than feel like you’re in a rut and getting upset about it). Second, I find experimenting with different color combinations/textures or pulling out products I haven’t used in awhile helps to inspire me. Third, browse platforms like Instagram for more creative/avant garde makeup–even if it’s not “wearable” to work or school doesn’t mean you can’t recreate and get your creative juices flowing!

— Christine

11 Comments

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Seraphine Avatar

I often experiment with looks if I have free time at night before bed. I’ll try new color combinations or try to imitate looks I’ve seen. Sometimes it’s just for fun (like doing 1920s flapper makeup) and sometimes it will be coming up with new ideas for evening or daytime looks. If I do a a great look, I’ll write it down or take a picture, then wash it off. If it looks awful, no one else knows!

I have so many eyeshadow palettes that I rarely ever use, so I just started a new plan of using one neglected palette all week and changing the look every day. I normally tend to stick to the same few palettes and the same few shades within those palettes, so my new plan is challenging, fun, and creative. And it’s nice to be using these products that I’ve spent so much money on!

Hénomis Avatar

OMG that’s a brilliant idea, I had thought of it but that’s it. I may actually go through with it now 😉

And I agree, experimenting at night is super fun!!!

Nancy T Avatar

When I see myself getting a little too comfortable (lazy) with just throwing on pretty much the same looks day after day, or going days without even bothering to wear makeup, I force myself to get into my stash and just do something totally new and different from the same ol’ same ol’. Otherwise, the guilt eats me up, because I have hoarded far too much in the way of color cosmetics to not use it up! Unfortunately, I can seriously relate to those who fall into a rut caused by depression or feeling very overwhelmed by life. I understand all too well.

Silvia Avatar

Although I wear simple very natural makeup (ok. I’m pale and afraid to over do it so when my family members tease me ‘wheres the makeup?’ I tell them I don’t want to look like my cockatiel. I have one! Lol). But I do change daily my eyeshadow colors, blushes and lipsticks, highliters. I keep it fun to myself. ☺️

Silvia Avatar

Oops! Forgot to add, recommend person in a rut to go get a makeover with a really good artist. I need one myself! Always learn something new. Also don’t be afraid to try a new shade whether darker or lighter. On me nudes are a waste I look like a vampire but tried vampy shades and fell in love with a few! Who knew?! They look good on me a darker berry, wine. Love! Love! Cherry Bomb from WetnWild!

Genevieve Avatar

I think the most practical way of getting out of a makeup rut would be to experiment with either different eye shadow shades or lipsticks.
Firstly, I would shop my stash and reuse palettes or quads I haven’t looked at for awhile before purchasing any additional eyeshadows. I would suggest that you try one or two different combinations to see how you liked it. Rotating palettes is a good way to start the process.
Lipsticks are generally pretty easy to change and there are lots of inexpensive options, that are just as good as the more expensive ones to try.

Cassandra Avatar

Go on youtube and check out what different people are wearing! That is what got me out of a long rut! The imagination, colour and helpfulness in applying is all out there.?????

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