Most people have a conglomerate of different products in their makeup bags, but what are your top five? Let’s talk about a few of my favorite products that I can’t live without. Grab your makeup bag along with me, and let’s dig:
• When I open my bag, the first thing I grab is moisturizer. Moisturizer preps my skin so that my makeup goes on smoothly and keeps my skin hydrated.
• Secondly, I grab a gripping primer because the mask life rubs my makeup off without it. I’ve been using Cover FX Gripping + firming primer from Ulta Beauty ($38), and it has easily become one of my go-to products. Not only does it have a ton of staying power, but it also helps control oils and mattify the skin.
• Next up is foundation, and personally, I love a good matte formula. With the humidity levels on the Coast, controlling the oil on my skin is an absolute must! My favorite matte foundation is a drugstore find by Elf Cosmetics. The Camo CC Cream ($14, Ulta, Walmart or Walgreens) is matte and totally buildable, which is my favorite part about it.
• Bronzer is one of my favorite topics because it’s so versatile, and I don’t know about you, but it’s a must-have in my beauty bag. You can use it to sculpt out your cheeks, or even as an eyeshadow to tie your whole look together. I have been using Physcians Formula Bronzer from Target ($11.99), and it is so natural and easy to apply. Depending on your skin shade, you can get the color you need to look sun-kissed yearround.
• Last up is mascara, and my all-time favorite, ride-or-die pick is Benefit BADgal BANG volumizing mascara from Ulta ($26). It really puts all of the other mascaras I’ve tried to shame. It lengthens, lifts and makes your lashes look so full. Just two effortless swipes of this mascara, and you are good to go for the rest of the day.
Next time you go shopping, add some of these products to your cosmetics collection. You won’t regret it. If you need another reason to try them, most of these products are super affordable and last forever.
Lauren Riley is a makeup artist and hairdresser on the Coast, specializing in on-location wedding and event makeup, blondes and hand-tied extensions. Contact her or learn more at www.laurenrileyhairmakeup.com or facebook.com/laurenrileyhairmakeup.