OpheliaNoir

This video is my full makeup routine, it's edited (obvs) but from start to finish it takes about 20min. If I put it on this is what I wear every time, it's what I was wearing when someone assumed I looked like this naturally.

I wear it because I like it. I find the routine calming, it’s getting up and getting ready for the day. I also wear it because I have suffered from horrible skin, mainly acne, since I was 14 and being able to cover that makes *me* feel better and that's the most important thing.

I suffered from acne for years and I swear if once more GP told me “you’ll grow out of it” I was going to scream, I’m 32, it's NOT happening. My face, neck and back were covered not just in spots but also scars. I was miserable.

In the end I saved some money and went to Harley Street to see a private dermatologist and it was life-changing. I got a new routine, some prescription cremes, daily antibiotics and it totally changed my life...but I still love my makeup and that's ok.

Now wearing makeup is a better experience, it’s more empowering rather than something used to hide behind. In the past I wouldn’t go out without make-up, I wouldn’t even go to the shops without a full face. That’s how much I hated my skin. Access was a struggle at times.

This is the skincare routine as advised by my dermatologist… AM Wash face - Ceterfil Moisturise - Avene A-Oxitive Makeup No primer Foundation MUST be non-comedogenic PM Makeup remover - Marcella water Wash face - Ceterfil Moisturise - La Roche-Posay Toleriane Cream

If someone says "I love you without makeup" or "you don't need that makeup" I know you're trying to be nice, I know it's coming from a good place but I'm happy both in and out of make-up. I don't need it, I have never needed it but it's about how I feel, that's important.