Continuous lockdowns have made my love for numerous things blossom, from depression naps, snacks, Netflix and a minimalist beauty routine. Gone are the days of being able to beat my face to the gods all before 8am – I now much prefer to keep things simple.
My love for mascara has soared, which I didn’t even think was possible. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, mascara is hands down my one desert island makeup product. It’s just so simple but has the power to turn your lashes into a volumised dream. Plus, if Pirates ever invaded my desert island, a quick lash flutter and my life would *hopefully* be spared. At the minute I’m loving the Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara, which is currently going viral on TikTok.
Below, I ask The Breakdown team to share the beauty products that they’ve all been loving throughout lockdown.
Harriet Prior, Health Writer
Before the pandemic, I only ever wore makeup for very special occasions. There hasn’t been many of those recently, so I’ve really put a focus on getting my skincare right. The beauty product that I’ve loved throughout lockdown is my Liquid Peptides Serum with hyaluronic acid and my go-to Niacinamide from Medik8. It gives me a glow when I need it most and the process of putting it on is my skin is so soothing. Sometimes it’s the little things that make a big difference.
Emilie Lavinia, Health Editor
Obsessive hand washing is still part and parcel of my day so delicious hand creams have been my lockdown saviour, especially Diptyque Luxurious Hand Balm. I’ve also been slathering myself with Antipodes’ Aura Manuka Honey Mask – it feels healing and nourishing. I also love to use a Vitamin C Serum every day to refresh my skin.
Sumaiya Ahmed, Food & Drinks Writer
Throughout the pandemic, my love for eyeliner has gotten even stronger, I don’t feel complete without it. It really does a great job of completing any makeup look. I’m enjoying using both the NYX Waterproof Liner in black and the Inglot Gel Liner as it’s just so pigmmented. Plus, I’ll throw on my NYX Lip Lingerie in Seducation and it’s instantly my go-to look.
Hattie Gladwell, Editor
False eyelashes have been my saviour during lockdown. Being a mum and working from home (regardless of lockdown) means I never really find the energy to do my makeup anymore. But false eyelashes make me feel like I’ve got that little bit of makeup on without having to do a full face, while still getting that natural look. Whenever I FaceTime or Zoom, false eyelashes at least make me feel a little bit human. Plus, being able to get packets of multiple variations of lashes means I’m able to mix it up a bit and feel a bit more ‘me’. Eylure is definitely one of my go-to brands for false eyelashes.
Gina Tonic, Sex & Relationships Editor
The Starface spot patches have been amazing to use throughout lockdown. I love how cute they are and how they make me feel better about my maskne and other skin issues that have come up for me this year. They’ve even done a special collaboration with Hello Kitty, which I adore. Plus you can buy packs as a one-off or through a subscription. I’ve bought loads since being introduced.
Isabelle Jani Friend, Senior Writer
After ten years of straightening my hair every day, I decided to embrace my wavy hair during lockdown, and have been loving using the Denman 7 Row styling brush to style my hair. My curly hair routine helps me to relax and temporarily takes my mind off stressful situations. It’s also the perfect time for me to catch up on my favourite tv shows or podcasts.
Kate Galloway Smith, Wellbeing Editor
As my use of make-up sadly dwindled during lockdown, it felt a bit too much to be getting up and putting on a whole face just to sit in my spare room/office, I turned to other forms of skincare and beauty to get me through. I have sworn by Omorovicza Queen of Hungary face mist. I spray it liberally throughout the day and it helps my skin feel hydrated and look luminous. And I always wear perfume, no matter if I’m staying in all day because it makes me feel like I’m me! My favourite is Le Labo’s Tonka 25.