Grief is different for everyone, but one thing all grievers seem to have in common is that they don’t feel like themselves during a season of grief. 

I remember looking in the mirror and seeing someone I didn’t even recognize staring back at me. 

The unrelenting sadness and exhaustion had certainly taken their toll internally and externally. 

At first, I didn’t care that I looked red-nosed, puffy-eyed, and chapped day and night. I simply didn’t have the energy and my mind was on other things.  

But one morning I woke up and I felt differently. I had this tiny twinge of desire to recognize myself in the mirror again. 

I guess I was ready for a shift. Maybe you are too?

So, I already told you about my grief survival kit. Now I want to tell you about the make-up essentials and tips that helped me face life post-loss. 

These practical insights are by no means essential, but I found them helpful at at time in my life when I really needed something tangible.

Grief Make-Up Essential #1: Green Tinted Primer

This is meant to be worn under make-up to tame redness and help foundation last, but I use it all by itself. The green tint rubs in and neutralizes any redness in a completely undetectable way. It’s semi-matte finish is flattering on any skin and a little goes a long way. Use as needed to mellow out a red nose or cheeks from crying. It’s a lifesaver. I use Smashbox Photo Finish REDUCE REDNESS Primer but any brand would do I imagine. 

Grief Make-Up Essential #2: Smashbox Photo Finish Hydrating Under Eye Primer

This is also meant to be worn under concealer but I like it on its own. It has a shimmery reflective quality that is NOT glittery which diffuses dark circles but no pigment so it doesn’t settle in fine lines. It’s AMAZING. I use it to disguise the consequences of crying or not sleeping – common during grief. I’d say that any similar product would do, but this one is SUPERIOR. It also lasts forever. 

Grief Make-up Essential #3: Redness Relieving Eye Drops

Nothing is more of dead give-away that you’ve been crying than bloodshot eyes. These drops fix that, at least temporarily. It’s important not to overuse them, but they certainly help out in a pinch. They gave me confidence to look people in the eye without the fear of being asked “are you ok?” or “is something wrong?” I keep a bottle in my purse and my make-up bag and use only as needed. My favorite is Visine Original or Visine Hydrating, but use what works for you. 

Grief Make-up Tip #4: Use Eyeliner and Mascara On Your Upper Lashes Only

Using eyeliner and mascara on your upper lashes only makes your eyes look more open and eliminates running if (or when) you get teary-eyed. The tears fall down and with no liner or mascara on the bottom, everything stays put. It’s an alternative to wearing nothing at all or using waterproof products. I’m not a fan of waterproof myself so this is a perfect compromise.

Grief Make-up Tip #5: Use Lipstick As Blush

If you want to add a bit of color to your face you can use your favorite lipstick as blush. After you put it on your lips dab it on your cheeks and blend well. It provides tear-resistant color because it is wax based instead of powder. And it’s so convenient. Give it a try and see what you think.

What make-up tips and products have you found helpful during grief?

Email me at Rachel@thegriefgal.com and tell me. I’d love to know.