From Scratch to Glam: how to build your DREAM makeup kit

[@charlotteharris4825]

I am physically and mentally exhausted tonight, and I have to tell you Marlena, that after watching you for so many years, even tonight when I can literally barely remember my own name, your fabulousness has transcended yet again to wake me up enough to put pen to paper, or, ok, type this message out, to say thank you for such fabulous content. You're e legend in the field, a voice of reason and kindness, and a comfort for many. With love x

[@leeannbaxter]

I love that you advocate for powder foundation. So many dismiss powder for mature skin but I swear, I get the best coverage, skin like texture with powder foundation. It took me years to realize that powder works best for my face.

[@Lashlove16]

I appreciate how you are telling ppl how to minimize. After having drawers of make up … I love my small collection that fits in a small cosmetic bag … it’s so much more fun to have the best of the best

[@MarlenaStell]

@@Lashlove16 I’ve been scaling down my selection and using just what I love

[@denise8791]

I'm having trouble downsizing. I'm always like oh maybe my daughter will like this or... what if next summer I feel like wearing bright orange lipstick?! 😩 what's wrong with me

[@Lashlove16]

@@denise8791 if you need some tips I can help you … it took about a year I am on my year 8 now

[@sherrypettit5552]

I have a full clothes dresser filled with makeup. Been going through it for things that are too old, giving away shades that are too light or too dark.

[@Lashlove16]

@@sherrypettit5552 I love that I took new things that I will never realistically use and gave them to a women’s shelter Gently used stuff I sanitized and gave to friends and family I did a no buy ( only could purchase if I ran out of a particular catagory like I had no mascaras left ) It’s been 8 years but I am sooo happy now as I only have the best of the best and get ready so quick .

[@natty9722]

You made my favorite ever eye shadow! I would have bought every single one if only I knew it was going to be discontinued. It was called Mesmerized. Talk about obsession! Perfect taupey mauvey combination! Unmatched!

[@MarlenaStell]

@@natty9722 awww I MISS mesmerized!! I have one left in my personal collection and I cherish it 🥲 Don’t worry- I’ll make eyeshadows in the near future

[@christinat4689]

@@MarlenaStellawesome news !

[@melissagoodine2983]

Yours were the best and luckily I have most of the duo chrome and I use sparingly so Ill have them for awhile. Terra moon looks like they could be close to yours. I’ll have to try while I wait for you.

[@abbielegary412]

​@@MarlenaStellwhat!? Whoooo! Can't wait! ❤

[@latherandlace]

Personally, I can't find a nude eyeliner to go in my waterline like MUG's! 😢 I wish I'd bought 50 of them!

[@mrssmurf55]

Love this feels like old-school make-up geek❤

[@LizzyDel]

You are my favorite makeup KZbinr. Hands down.. have always been since the beginning of KZbin. Thank you! This is like a beauty and encyclopedia all in one place. You are amazing!

[@Mirallia]

I never comment on videos but I can't resist. I wish someone had made this video 10+ years ago. I would have saved so much money trying to figure out which product to use for my skin type. Thank you!

[@LydiaKrow]

I wish my niece would watch this, she has a bigger makeup collection than I did when I was a working MUA. :D She had to buy storage units for her make-up. I do love most of this advice, but one thing I will say about brushes is that you should invest money ONLY if you are also able to invest time to take care of them, otherwise go buy ELF brushes. If you don't take care of your expensive brushes (store them poorly, never clean them, etc.) they will develop the same problems (flattened, bent bristles, mold, etc.) and have to be tossed. Paying for a sturdy brush is essential for someone who makes their living off them, but not for personal use.

[@laur83]

i also think more affordable brushes don’t inherently have to be of terrible quality. i have some essence and wet n wild brushes that do what i need them to do without shedding or feeling scratchy. but they aren’t weighted.

[@AnyaAnnika67]

I made this mistake when I first started out with makeup I bought a whole set of Natasha Denona brushes & didn't treat them well. Lesson learned. I now love Nikki La Rose & Rephr brushes & treat them well 😊

[@LydiaKrow]

@@AnyaAnnika67 Ooh yeah I think that happens to everyone, but only once! 😊 At least you did learn from it - I remember someone came in once and showed me her bag with some very sad brushes that she insisted were fine because they were expensive and "could take a beating." lol!

[@staceyhookins3433]

Excellent video! And the fact that it wasnt pushing precise products was unbelievably refreshing! I havent watched many of your videos yet but i can totally see why you are so respected in the beauty community ❤

[@Lynnonymous]

I love these kind of videos. They're us always something to learn and apply to routine/collection. Thank you!

[@nharber9837]

This was a really nice basic refresher. I have my license but haven’t used it in like 10 years, and I’m currently digging myself out of a deep years long depression cycle where I didn’t even look in a mirror for several years except to brush my teeth. So now all my stuff is expired and a lot of my favorites have been discontinued, so it really feels like starting over from scratch. I basically had to throw away over $1000 in expired makeup from my personal collection. I will admit I’m going against my training and did save a couple eyeshadow palettes that work. I’ve drenched them in 99% alcohol, and wouldn’t dream of using them on a client (I’m not even taking clients right now), but I see no reason to throw out something that is essentially new and that I know I love just because she’s a little mature. At some point I’ll repurchase and get rid of the expired one, but as I need a whole new kit, my focus is on spending on things I don’t currently have like mascara and eyeliner. Ngl some of these new eyeshadow palettes are pretty nice though! The really daunting task is rebuilding my skincare. It used to be really hard to find Korean beauty products I could read the labels on, but since the west has woken up to all things Korean that’s certainly changed.

[@han.nah.]

Just want to say I’m so thankful you’re coming out of the depressive episode & I’m so proud of you! God bless you. 🙏🏼💜

[@KatherinePeak]

I’m new to wearing makeup, just didn’t really know how to apply it right, but your videos have helped so much!!! Thank you!!!!!

[@MarlenaStell]

@@KatherinePeak I’m so glad they help!

[@Licazy]

You are getting me excited about makeup again. I started bying makeup back in the day with your recomendations. Over the years I stopped wearing so much makeup, I work from home. Makeup is so fun.

[@Patti-1962]

I'm 62 years old and my mind is blown. Using an eyeliner pencil to pick up a gel liner. GENIUS!!! Life changing!! I always make a mess with a brush!

[@janhuckabee9610]

Love you, Marlena, and ALL your tried, true, and proven honest reviews 💖🤩

[@solangefagundes2470]

I can’t thank you enough for this video! It’ll help me explaining better to my students. I’m professional makeup artist but I struggle explaining. Thank you so much! Please make a video for MAKEUP ARTIST KIT!! Thank you!!

[@teresaswanson4854]

You are one of the most honost, kind KZbinr I have followed. I love your videos & I loved your makeup line. Hope you keep making these wonderful videos!

[@CamilleSinaguinan]

I hope you bring back makeup geek. My shadows are years old but they still work! I always go back to your eyeshadows.

[@jeanninekincheloe2441]

I have watched many makeup KZbin videos and people but you are by far the best and so glad I found you ❤️ 😊

[@loridobos7174]

This was such a great video today. I have found that purchasing quality brushes has made a big difference in my makeup application. More than any singular product. I have very senstive, dry and mature skin. The sensitivity has only increased with my chemotherapy.

[@chelsearose7655]

The problem I find as an oily girl is that most matte foundations are full coverage/heavy. When your skin is oily, it’s GOING to break down foundation. It will. It’s what oil does, so I actually prefer foundations that are lighter coverage that I spot conceal my problem areas with concealer, bc when it does eventually break down and wear away, the lighter coverage fades so much more elegantly than something thick and full. Unfortunately it seems most liquid and powder foundations that are made for us oily girls are heavy and full coverage. Danessa myricks is an exception. Her balm powder with upsalite is AMAZING. Literally life changing. But use less than you think. That’s my tip. Love you and your videos Marlena and we need our cosmetic queen to fix the industry for us oily girls! 😉

[@laur83]

i also have oily skin and love some dewy complexion products. the point is targeting the shine and loose powder is my best friend. mattifying primers and/or mattifying sunscreens underneath is also helpful.

[@MySunshineJMC]

Great video Marlena. I’m 54 & have a large make up collection (it’s my jam) so I’m trying to shop my stash and enjoy what I have. I must say, my Profusion make up brushes are the best… rival any high end brush & they are super affordable! Xo😘

[@kelsyervin9039]

13:55 “It looks like I drank a lot of water today… but I didn’t I drank coffee instead” 😂😂 Story of my life ❤

[@abannetteblanco89]

Your videos are the best! Been following you for 10 years. That’s longer than my sister’s last marriage 😂 Much love to you and yours ❤️🥰❤️

[@MarlenaStell]

🤣🤣🤣🤣 this comment had me laughing! And so glad you’re still with me! Xo

[@anabelsubia-diaz1437]

I have all of these brushes ... Game changer when it comes to applying make up. The eye brushes you will never pick up another brush again.

[@4439chiquita]

Girl, love your dark hair color..! Looking gorgeous, mama..!❤❤

[@Verbsdescribeus]

Thank you for demystifying the use of primers... A skincare routine is best 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@shinebright833]

Marlene you are my holy grail lol whenever I do get something you recommend I end up loving it. I always reference your videos when I'm in the market for makeup 😜

[@joywind8922]

You made my favorite brown eyeshadow for the crease, Beach please. I bought a few additional ones before you sold out. Your knowledge of cosmetics is phenomenal. Thanks for sharing your knowledge.

[@KarenAllen-pp3yl]

Thank you Marlena for your honesty and informative videos. You are so awesome. ❤

[@maryarellano2435]

I LOVE the Anisa brushes. I have very expensive brushes, stashed away in drawers, because every time, these the ones I find myself using most.

[@kathleenp3135]

This was so great! Best was your explanation about the mascara brushes! Thanks!!!

[@Queenbee0868]

Glad to see you back! 😊

[@EAJurk]

You always serve the best content!!

[@cindygirard5170]

So nice to have you back!!!

[@SSunkissedSnoww]

Marlena I love your videos and the fact that your always so informative is what I really appreciate. So thank you! ❤ Would you be able to do a video on mascara application and any other advice?

[@stephaniescofield9433]

Great video! Thanks so much for sharing! I did buy a couple of the Anissa brushes and loooove them! Someday I’ll add to them! Take good care❣️. I should probably wait until the video is done because I always come back and edit 🤦🏻‍♀️🤷🏻‍♀️😁 I’m 64 and have always had a hard time with eyeshadow color. My eyes are blue,green and a hint of brown.

[@heather.carson]

Thank You for this video! I have followed you for years and I love all your information. You are amazing! 💜

[@sydeezy17]

I am so happy with my Anisa Beauty and BK Beauty brushes. I personally feel like the Anisa is by far the best though for quality. Keep in mind too, you don’t have to buy everything all at once! I built my brush collection slowly over time. ❤ I was amazed at how much better my makeup looked with the right tools!

[@HHH81]

Best practical and useful makeup video. I’m definitely trending in this direction as I need to slim down my “collection” and the finer products are my favorite. ❤️ makeup 💄 want to make sure I’m not holding onto products past their prime too. Actually a timeline video that mirrors this and compliments it would be clutch. Appreciate you, thank you!

[@nataliek3717]

I bought a set of BS-Mall Brushes and they are soft and work fantastic!! They may not last forever but I paid under 20 dollars for 18 brushes!!

[@tanja6233]

Happy Sunday Marlena ... Perfect timing.. I'm needing to try "NEW PRODUCTS" again..I grew up on Estee Lauder makeup.. Stop using years back..I'm back again.. Thank you for sharing your "Favorites" ❤

[@juicyb8946]

I use Aquafor under my cream foundation. My skin looks flawless all day. I use primer only on my oily parts. I do buffing motions and I get a beautiful finish. But I have tried so many different methods and I have had to change it as I got older. When I was younger and lived in Cali I wore matte foundation now in Texas I use satin and natural finish. So where are you live does matter. And our age.

[@TrinaP-Fen]

Thanks so much for putting in the thought and time it took to make this. It is so helpful!

[@lucymara2505]

Very helpful content, as ALWAYS. Marlena is the best!

[@liisabjork76]

I love Anisa brushes. They are beautiful, fun to use , and soft . Excellent quality. Have a couple sets . Their brush case is amazing. I own two. I also own their serum lotion brushes. I just pile my serums into the brush and slather on my face care.

[@m.e.5]

Such valuable material Marlena! TYSM for your dedication

[@el3sjadeya321]

Absolutely love your videos thank you for being so honest and generous with your knowledge . You’re my go to artist every time. I want an honest review. I bought the anisa brushes based on your recommendations and not they are a game changer loooved them. Thank you god bless

[@sylviashaw501]

Thank you for this video...Love all that you mentioned and really helped me...I have spent so much on makeup because everyone says buy this!!! BUY THIS!!!! AuHh!!!!!!!!!!!

[@mia_2524]

Great video! Could you please do one on how to choose the right blush color to go with your lipstick ? 💕

[@cusebaby10]

This was extremely helpful and informative as usual Marlena! We adore you and your channel, thank you! I can't wait to see the next house full of influencers... that will be so much fun again! 😘🤗🥰♥️

[@chicalertng]

I know I always watch your videos and like them since I subscribed but I can’t remember if I have ever made a comment. So here goes, thank you for the discount code, I just ordered some of the brushes. Also, thank you for always being inclusive in your videos, I have a medium to dark skin tone and every time you talk about shade range in your foundation videos, my heart sings because I feel seen and I feel welcome in your channel, thank you 🙏🏽. Lastly, I am in my mid forties and my skin has gone crazy on me, I have very oily skin and every foundation I use just emphasizes my texture and pores and they just don’t look right anymore😢, I try to take good care of my skin, I have tried high end, drugstore and everything in between, I have primers and setting sprays. Any extra tips and tricks will be greatly appreciated. FYI you have some of the best subscribers on KZbin, they are very kind people here 😊

[@ChristinePacinda]

As a mature gal with oily skin, I have to battle both creases and loose skin + large pores and oil. The best "cream" blushes I've found are the ones made by Danessa Myricks, and the ones made by Natasha Denona. Both brands have a sort of cream to powder blush that not only smooths out beautifully and really lasts, but also seems to blur skin "imperfections". I still powder overtop of them and then top with a light dusting of either bronzer or powder blush most days, but on the days I don't wear much makeup these blushes still perform alone all day.

[@janreding9384]

Wow did I ever just learn a lot my goodness your expertise thank you for sharing it with all of us

[@mlpnorthsub8543]

GREAT VIDEO.... love to hear what you have to say, and consider a lot of your suggestions. This Baby Boomer LOVES make up and has a HUGE collection and back ups of most. For those who have limited space, a limited budget or just want core products, you nailed it. Thank you again for your great content.

[@dlj548]

WOW! Great information. This is a perfect get started video for anyone.

[@tiffanyjanel_]

This was extremely helpful! Taking all these tips on my next trip to Ulta and Sephora. ☺

[@beckyjohnsen3128]

AWESOME information!!! Thank you for taking the time to break this stuff down for us. It's SO helpful !!❤️

[@architecturaldream1]

You the OG MS, we love you ❤️ (Would love a life update vid soon, please and thank you 🙏)

[@christinecuster439]

Great idea cream over powder blush

[@lornaolmo3794]

Thanks you so much for this video Marlena!! Very useful and informative! Cheers!

[@timothysherreyehler5095]

Great video, missile! I'm visiting my Mom, and I forgot my lip pencil! I've got to get another; my old lips need a liner! Hope you, and your family are well! Love, and hugs from Nova Scotia, Marlena, Sherrey🩷

[@jillanemckinney3358]

Such a great video!! I always learn so much from you, Marlena!! Thank you!!💕🌸

[@nikkirevasmrplus5313]

I usually use cream bronzer, but ofra has a really good powder bronzer that I have been using. 👌

[@rainbowcat498]

all my oily skin babes, dont sleep on the Maybelline Fit Me Matte foundation! She is GLORIOUS! Its the only foundation i will use until my last days!

[@kathrynmarie6534]

What about eye shadow color for hazel eyes? Loved this.. thank you!

[@JintheSouth]

This was helpful. I just got rid of a lot of makeup that I really didn’t need but I bought based off of KZbinrs reviews. I hardly used them. Tfs

[@anisabeauty569]

We LOVE this, Marlena! 🙌😍 Thank you for featuring #ANISABeauty brushes! 😘💜

[@AsianPoshDorene]

I’ll try the brushes. I use BK beauty brushes now. Thanks for this video!

[@IveyPrusinowski]

I laugh every time she says greasy chicken wing lol

[@jordanaweber8331]

What was the chunky glitter that you showed ? Sooo pretty ❤

[@jennifermolina4396]

I actually bought the new CT stick foundation... i love it! I powder the bejeesus out of it! It still looks great, though. I have combo skin and i love it. That's rare for me.

[@abymuri04]

Oh my I miss Makeup Geek so much, but is nice to see you still making videos like the good old days 😌

[@LipstickNsofrito]

Hi hun..thanks for sharing this with us..happy Sunday ❤❤❤

[@EAJurk]

@marlena stell babe... we need a new fragrance Friday. Pllleeeaaasseee

[@wipim1983]

Love this video! In this day and age it's important to avoid waist of resources and money! Collect eyeshadow palettes, for example, is useful but if you are a MUA. Less is more and space-saving. Smart people buy less, better and use it all before expiring date.

[@sussannekeith5676]

Love this video Marlena ❤

[@icymads7940]

THANK YOUU! This is so helpful🥹

[@melissagoodine2983]

Have you tried Sonia G brushes? I love hers and chikahodo soo amazing

[@worldofsarahm5358]

My favorite eyeshadow palette and blush (spellbound) was made from your Make Up Geek line. ❤️😭

[@cynthiab9077]

You’re the best! Thank you!

[@ShaMunoz25]

Okay but what was that glitter shadow it was stunning!

[@cassie_ohsoclassic]

I’m not going to lie I still love gel liners…super accommodating for subtlety and a strong wing

[@amber-turner]

Can you do a video of dupes for your old eyeshadow shades? Currently, I'm looking for a dupe for your shade whimsical, and I am not having much luck 😢

[@monicapatton1405]

Have you looked at Moira Starshow Shadow Pot?

[@kristymarshall470]

Thank you ! What is your hair color ? It’s beautiful!

[@audreyso1201]

Merci Marlena, super vidéo💛💛💛

[@elizabethvanmeter3217]

Very helpful! Thank you! PS. You are beautiful! With or without makeup.💟

[@Vladi0310]

What glitter was that???? ❤❤❤ I need it in my life 14:41

[@rosalbadadamo1104]

Thanks so much ❤

[@taslimramzan8311]

This is by far the most useful makeup video must watch 🫶🏼♥️

[@louisepouliot9571]

So well explained! Thank you❤

[@angelaa3034]

Great info. I learned so much

[@jackieturner4144]

keep missing your vids I'm going to check your play list after this xx

[@Jenntlecat1970]

The Lancôme primer is easily one of the best primers I’ve bought

[@evacaridad]

Love this ❤

[@loretopg]

Outstanding video!!! ❤❤❤

[@ilamprecht7921]

Perfect! Thank you ❤

[@tonidavie3635]

Thank you for sharing your experience and expertise

[@Olivia_Spencer45]

Really enjoyed this video

[@viforever4219]

What eyeshadow colors look best on black eyes?