The Makeup Essentials Edit
Makeup Faves for Every Skin Tone
Welcome to the makeup essentials edit, a list of the basics, thoughtfully selected by me - a professional makeup artist with over a decade of experience in film, TV, editorial, and weddings. These are the products that work - each selected to help you feel amazing without overcomplicating things.
Skin First
Lisa Eldridge Seamless Skin Enhancing Tint; $49
Lisa Eldridge is an iconic makeup artist who has worked on the red carpet and big screen. Her makeup line reflects her extensive experience working with real people. This skin tint is easy to use (rub it in with your fingers), self-setting (no powder needed), and long-lasting.
HAUS Labs Triclone Skin Tech Medium Coverage Foundation; $49
This foundation boasts 51 colors, including nuanced undertones of the palest and deepest shades. We love an inclusive range. The formula is gorgeous and offers a medium coverage.
ciele tint & PROTECT serum foundation with SPF 50+; $44
An effortless skin tint that has the added benefits of SPF 50! This is a light, light medium coverage that can be sheered down by using a brush.
MAC Studio Radiance Face and Body Radiant Sheer Foundation; $44
Originally created for the runway, this foundation is true to its name and can be slathered on your face and body. As you rub it in, it changes viscosity and self-sets to a sheer coverage (great for a no-makeup-makeup look). This bottle will last you forever.
L'Oreal Paris True Match Super Blendable Foundation; $13.99
This drugstore option is a classic for a reason. It has a medium coverage and is formulated with up to 6 pigments for your most precise match.
Fresh Flush
Violette_FR Bisou Blush; $36
This marbleized blush gets extra points because there is a built-in buffing brush. No need for extra tools. It also has a beautiful glowy finish to make your face look fresh.
NARS Talc-Free Powder Blush; $34
Another easy-to-use product. Swipe this buildable powder blush on and call it a day.
Patrick Ta Major Headlines Double-Take Crème & Powder Blush Duo; $38
A blush for the intermediate-pro makeup users. This creme and powder duo packs a punch and looks flawless on the skin.
Pucker Up
Best for small lips: Violette_FR Bisou Balm; $29
This lipstick gives a blurring effect for a just-been-kissed lip look. Apply it slightly over your natural lip line to make your lips appear larger. Because it is matte, the overline will look natural.
The Perfect Red: Lisa Eldridge True Velvet Lip Colour, Velvet Ribbon $36
Lisa Eldridge’s formulas are next level, and her lipsticks are in a league of their own. The velvet lipsticks are a dream—comfortable, ultra-pigmented, and long-lasting. If you’re looking for the perfect red lip for the holidays (or any day), this is it.
Lipstick with Range: NARS Afterglow Sensual Shine Hydrating Lipstick; $32
14 colors give this lipstick line range. The shiny formula makes it comfortable and forgiving.
Mascara for My Criers (Life is Emotional)
L'Oréal Voluminous Waterproof Mascara; $11
Tried and true. For uber feathery lashes that are smudge-proof.
Maybelline Lash Sensational Waterproof Mascara; $12
You probably had this in your slouchy Aldo purse in 2009. And it’s still that girl.
Out-of-this-World Eyes (Mostly Glitter)
Lemonhead.LA Spacepaste® Glitter Concentrate; $22
Houdini is my favorite shade. It’s like a little trick of the light—transparent until it flashes violet. It’s a paste, so you can swipe it on your lid or through your hair.
Half Magic Glitterpuck; $28
Donni Davy, the mastermind behind Half Magic, served as the head makeup artist for Euphoria and created iconic looks for Chappell Roan. When it comes to sparkle, she’s the ultimate expert.
Laura Mercier Caviar Stick Cream Eyeshadow; $33
One and done and won’t budge. Get a neutral for everyday wear (Au Naturel for pale, Sepia for tan, and Cocoa for deep skin) and something with a little shimmer to throw on for a night out. Celestial Noir is gorgeous on every skin tone.
I hope you enjoyed this edit. If you have any questions, or recommendations for what I should round up next, please leave a comment.
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