In terms of makeup- it does help in a way with my esteem (lol very sad but will explain) because I get to spent an hour to myself each morning and create art through makeup and I get to display the artwork on my face. Doesn't matter if it looks shit- it still feels like art and that boosts up my self esteem a little.
t h i s
I've been waiting for a thread like this for a while HAHAHAH
on beauty blenders -- I used to use them but then didn't want to pay $30 for the 'real' one at sephora for another I'd have to throw away in a couple of months so I just started using my (clean) hands and tbh I get a similar if not better finish
and also they tend to soak up a lot of product

but they do prevent streaks and over-applying if that's a concern
I just do a 'natural' makeup routine like Olivia and Bea described but I have to plug some products which haven't been mentioned (unless I missed it oops) and they're HG for me lol
1. Maybelline Full n Soft mascara -- this stuff is the only one I've used that doesn't make my lashes clumpy, yet increases volume and lengthens whilst still looking real. It doesn't flake either on me and can hold a curl. I also love that the washable version is very easy to remove so I don't have to tug on my lashes and lose some in the process lol
Sometimes I layer this with the Maybelline Mega Plus Volum' Express and I get asked if I'm wearing fake lashes...!!!!!!
2. Liquid and cream products
I used to use powder blush and highlight but now I save that for a more dramatic look -- cream and liquid products look more 'skin like' imo. I really like the Make Up For Ever cream blushes
Maybelline has a good liquid highlight but I use the Becca shimmering skin perfector one atm in the shade opal. It's a bit expensive but you only need a little, and you can also get it in a little set from Sephora which comes with the mini one and a mini powder one too
NYX also has one which I haven't tried but it's only $7

MAC strobe cream is pretty good but expensive however you can buy a smaller bottle for about $20 I believe
I layer powder highlights over liquid or cream ones for the blinding/popping etc effect
3. Maybelline Fit Me and Superstar 24hr concealer
I use both of these under my eyes which cover dark circles really well. I use the superstay one in a shade too light for me just in the inner corner of my eye, and the fit me in the right shade kind of under the bottom lash line, almost to the cheek. I blend both with a brush or clean fingers to look alive haha
4. Urban Decay All Nighter setting spray
It works!!! Also, if you use setting spray before applying highlighter, it will 'pop' more #protip