Happy Makeup Monday!

I thought it would be fun to start a new weekly series where I share products I’ve been reaching for lately. Some of these are brand-new favorites, while others have been in my makeup bag for years. I’m not someone who buys every product that goes viral on TikTok, but I do love trying new things when they catch my eye.

These are the products I’ve genuinely been enjoying this summer, and a few of them have definitely earned a permanent spot in my routine.

1. MAC Nightmoth Lip Pencil

If you’ve read my recent post about my favorite MAC lip combo, then you already know how much I love this liner.

I always thought Nightmoth was a shade that only worked for dramatic fall makeup, but I couldn’t have been more wrong. Paired with the right lipstick, it creates the prettiest ombré lip and instantly makes my lips look fuller.

It’s become one of those products I didn’t know I needed until I tried it.

2. MACximal Silky Matte Lipstick in Flamingo

This lipstick completely surprised me.

Bright pink isn’t usually my first choice, but Flamingo has been such a fun color for summer. It looks beautiful with Nightmoth, but I’ve also worn it by itself when I wanted something bright and cheerful.

Sometimes it’s nice to step outside your comfort zone, and this lipstick reminded me of that.

3. e.l.f. Halo Glow Liquid Filter

I finally understand why everyone talks about this product.

Some days I wear it under foundation, and other days I wear it by itself with a little concealer. It gives my skin a healthy glow without looking greasy, which is exactly what I want during the summer.

It’s one of those products that makes you look a little more awake, even when you aren’t.

4. Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush

A tiny dot goes a long way.

I learned that lesson the hard way the first time I used it! Once you get the hang of it, though, it blends beautifully and lasts all day.

I love makeup that stays put without needing constant touch-ups, especially during warmer weather.

5. Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm

I don’t know what magic is in this lip balm, but my lips always feel softer after I use it.

I’ve been keeping one in my purse because it’s perfect for days when I don’t feel like wearing lipstick but still want my lips to look healthy and hydrated.

6. L’Oréal Panorama Mascara

Mascara is probably the one product I refuse to leave the house without.

I’ve tried a lot over the years, but this one has really impressed me. It gives my lashes plenty of volume without clumping, and it doesn’t leave little black flakes under my eyes by lunchtime.

That’s always a win in my book.

7. NYX Butter Gloss

There will always be a place in my makeup bag for a good lip gloss.

NYX Butter Gloss has been around for years, and for good reason. It’s affordable, comfortable to wear, and comes in so many beautiful shades.

Sometimes the classics really are the best.

8. e.l.f. Power Grip Primer

If I’m going to spend time doing my makeup, I want it to last.

I’ve been reaching for this primer more and more because it helps everything stay in place, even on hot summer days. It gives foundation something to grip onto without feeling heavy.

9. Milani Make It Last Setting Spray

This has become the final step in almost every makeup look I do.

A few sprays help everything melt together so my makeup looks more natural instead of powdery. Plus, it helps my makeup last through long days without needing much touch-up.

10. A Good Sunscreen

This one isn’t technically makeup, but I couldn’t leave it off the list.

If there’s one beauty product I never skip during the summer, it’s sunscreen. Protecting your skin is one of the best things you can do, and it also helps your makeup apply more smoothly.

Whether you prefer a mineral sunscreen or a lightweight chemical formula, wearing SPF every day is a habit your future self will thank you for.

Final Thoughts

One thing I’ve learned over the years is that you don’t need a drawer full of expensive products to create a makeup look you love. Some of my favorite products are affordable drugstore finds, while others are little splurges that have been worth every penny.

The best makeup is the makeup that makes you feel confident.

I’m excited to make Makeup Monday a regular feature here on Pretty Current because I love sharing the products I’m actually using—not just the ones everyone is talking about online.

I’d love to hear from you! What’s one beauty product you can’t stop reaching for this summer? Let me know in the comments because I’m always looking for something new to try.