Makeup Essentials

When it comes to deciding what makeup to purchase it can feel like there are endless choices. As a makeup artist I have tried countless products from high-end brands like Chanel to affordable cosmetics like CoverGirl. Here are some of my favorites when you are looking to build a basic makeup kit.

Tinted moisturizer: Tinted moisturizer is one of my daily products. For some women foundation feels too heavy or too fussy for their everyday makeup routine. If that is you, then opt for a tinted moisturizer which is lightweight and provides sheer coverage that is just enough for a day look.

If you are looking for more complete coverage opt for a buildable foundation. This allows you to adjust your coverage from sheer to full depending on your needs.

Bobbi Brown and Laura Mercier are top shelf for tinted moisturizer and foundation. Both lines have various formulas and an extensive range of colors.

Concealer: Bobbi Brown claims this is her must have secrete weapon. I couldn’t agree more! Correctly applied, in the right shade, concealer can brighten and add hours of sleep to your appearance. Again, here Bobbi Brown and Laura Mercier get my vote for best concealers and correctors.

Tips for under eye perfection: With concealer you want to brighten. Use a shade that is a little lighter than your skin tone. Use your ring finger (fun fact: it’s your weakest finger! Under eye tissue is delicate so a gentle application is important) tap product under eyes and blend well outwards. For the best application use an eye cream prior to application.

If you have darker discoloration under your eyes, using a corrector under concealer will give you the best coverage. Correcting the discoloration will neutralize the color and concealer will then brighten.

Blush: Blush doesn’t need to be part of a basic everyday makeup look, but more and more I find myself wearing it daily. There are so many different blush colors and formulas. If you are new to wearing blush, my favorite “beginner” blush color is the cult favorite, Orgasm by Nars. This color looks great on so many skin tones and is subtle enough for those who are shy about wearing cheek color; the name just might make you blush!

Bronzer: There are two ways I wear bronzer; to contour or to bring a glow to my skin. I have a round face so I love to contour lightly as part of my everyday look. If you are going to use a bronzer to contour use a flat color with no shimmer. I love Too Faced chocolate bronzer. Brush the bronzer on the top of the forehead around the hairline, under your cheekbones and under your jawline. Think about making the number 3 on both sides of your face.

To use bronzer to add a sun kissed look to skin, I love Nars Laguna. The color works on so many different skin tones and has a hint of shimmer. Apply color to the highpoints of the face that the sun would hit, your forehead and tops of cheeks.

Bronzer tip: One thing to not do with bronzer is to apply it all over your face to make you look tan! Avoid this look; you want bronzer to add some type of dimension to your face, not act as an all over tanner.

Eye Liner: Gel eyeliner is a staple for me. Once you can get down the application, you’re likely not going back to pencil liner! Gel eyeliners glide on and have amazing staying power. My top pick, and serious obsession, is Bobbi Brown gel liner in chocolate shimmer. It defines the eyes with a softness that black can’t match. I cannot live without this liner!

If using an eyeliner brush to apply your liner is intimidating, start with an eyeliner pencil. For an all day look you want one that has staying power, try Makeup Forever Agua liner.

Eyeliner tip: Avoid only applying liner on your bottom lash line. I see so many women doing this! This look brings your eye down and is not as flattering as applying along the top lash line, which opens your eye.

Mascara: Personally I bounce around from brands and formulas depending on the occasion. There are so many great formulas out there that you can get at CVS. Maybelline rocket, CoverGirl Lash Blast and L’Oreal Voluminous are fantastic drug store buys. My current obsession is Too Face Better Than Sex mascara, it gives crazy length and volume. People think I have falsies on!

I don’t think one formula or brand wins out over another here. The best tip I can give you is when picking out a mascara think about buying a formula that enhances what you already have, work with what your mama gave ya! Have long lashes, buy a lengthening formulas, it will further lengthen your lashes.

Lip Color: For a basic every day look I opt for something sheer. Both Revlon and Maybelline have hydrating formulas that are no fuss and great for everyday. My favorites are Revlon Colorburst Lip Butter in Peach Parfait and Maybelline Color Whisper in Lust for Blush.

Eye shadow: There are so many eye shadow colors and palettes out there you could spend hours looking for the right one. For a palette that can take you from day to night, my pick is Lorac Pro Palette. This pallet gives you neutral colors and more intense colors for when you want to add some drama.

One essential piece of advice I can give you is that great makeup starts with great skin. I cannot stress enough the importance of taking care of your skin. It is pointless to splurge on expensive products when you are not moisturizing, using sunscreen, drinking enough water and avoiding things like smoking!

Want to learn more about different foundation formulas, how to expertly conceal imperfections, or how to pick the right blush? Stay tuned for future posts!

Loves, V