What to Buy at Sephora for Beginners

Walking into Sephora for the first time can feel a bit like walking into a candy store, but instead of candy, it's rows upon rows of beauty products, from makeup to skincare to haircare. Where do you even begin? Let's cut through the noise and focus on essential products that are perfect for beginners. We’ll dive into the must-have items that are both easy to use and versatile, giving you the most value for your money. Keep reading, and by the end of this guide, you'll know exactly what to buy as a beginner at Sephora.

Start with Skincare

One of the most common mistakes beginners make is diving straight into makeup without focusing on skincare first. The truth is, makeup only looks as good as the skin underneath. So, before adding eyeshadow palettes and foundations to your cart, make sure you’ve got a solid skincare routine. Here’s what to start with:

1. Cleansers: Every good skincare routine starts with a quality cleanser. Sephora stocks excellent options like the Fresh Soy Face Cleanser or CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser. These cleansers are gentle, non-stripping, and perfect for sensitive skin.

2. Moisturizers: A good moisturizer is non-negotiable. For beginners, consider the Clinique Moisture Surge or the Belif The True Cream Aqua Bomb. Both provide hydration without making your skin feel greasy.

3. Sunscreen: Even if you’re indoors, sunscreen is a must. Sephora carries great options like Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen. It’s lightweight and works perfectly under makeup.

Makeup Must-Haves for Beginners

Now that your skincare is sorted, let’s move to makeup. When you're just starting, it's important to invest in makeup products that are easy to use, multi-purpose, and don’t require a ton of skill to apply.

1. Foundation or Tinted Moisturizer: Choose a product that evens out your skin tone without looking heavy. The NARS Radiant Longwear Foundation or the Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Foundation are beginner-friendly options. If you want something lighter, try the Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer.

2. Concealer: Sephora is home to cult-favorite concealers like the Tarte Shape Tape or the NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer. They are both easy to blend and provide excellent coverage without looking cakey.

3. Mascara: Mascara is the quickest way to make your eyes pop, and you don’t need to be a pro to use it. Sephora stocks classics like the Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara or the Benefit They’re Real! Mascara.

4. Blush and Bronzer: Adding some color to your face is an easy way to bring life back after applying foundation. For beginners, I recommend a combo palette like the NARS Blush/Bronzer Duo. It’s simple to use and gives you two products in one.

5. Lipstick or Lip Balm: Start with a neutral shade that complements most looks. Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb is a great option for that perfect natural shine.

Tools of the Trade

Even with the right products, you’ll need a few key tools to apply them correctly. Investing in good brushes and sponges can make all the difference.

1. Beauty Blender: This sponge is a game-changer for blending foundation and concealer. It ensures you don’t end up with harsh lines or uneven coverage.

2. Brush Set: A basic brush set will include a powder brush, blush brush, and a few eyeshadow brushes. Sephora’s in-house brand has a great beginner brush set at an affordable price.

Bonus: Sephora’s Best Deals for Beginners

If you’re on a budget, Sephora’s sale section is a goldmine for discounted high-end products. Keep an eye on their “Sephora Favorites Kits”, which bundle together a variety of products at a fraction of the cost. These kits are often curated to introduce new customers to a range of bestsellers across skincare, makeup, and fragrance.

Final Tips for Sephora Beginners

• Stick to Essentials First: It’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the different products Sephora offers. Stick to the basics: cleanser, moisturizer, foundation, and mascara. Once you’ve mastered these, you can start expanding your collection.

• Samples and Sephora Rewards: Sephora is known for its generous sample policy. Don’t be afraid to ask for samples of products you’re unsure about. Also, sign up for the Sephora Beauty Insider Program to start earning points that you can redeem for more products.

• Invest in Quality, Not Quantity: Rather than buying several cheap products, invest in a few high-quality items that will last longer and perform better.

The Allure of Sephora: It’s Not Just About the Products

Sephora’s appeal goes beyond its shelves stocked with the latest beauty must-haves. It’s about the entire experience: the chance to experiment, play, and discover new looks. For beginners, Sephora is like an endless playground, but it's easy to feel overwhelmed. However, with the right guidance and a curated shopping list, you’ll walk out confident that you’ve made the best choices for your beauty journey.