There are certain beauty items that are indispensable to every gal on the go. Whether you have a wedding, date or any other important occasion to attend, there are certain cosmetics you simply cannot do without. It’s always a good idea to tuck a lipstick or colored gloss in your purse, for after dinner touch ups. Those with oily skin can also pack a powder compact to control shiny patches. Another suggestion is to soak a wedge sponge with foundation and store it in a small Ziploc bag in your purse. You can even dab a bit of your concealer on the edge of the same sponge in order to help fix any under-eye circles or smudged liner. If you’re carrying a small handbag that does not accommodate a mirrored powder compact, look for a small lipstick case with a tiny built-in mirror. These also make handy carry cases for rolled up bills or a key. For those unexpected snags, packing a nail file can be helpful.
Did you ever apply your makeup and notice that a few hours later, your foundation has melted, your eyeliner smeared, and your lipstick is missing in action? The way you prepare the “canvas” of your face will make all the difference in your makeup longevity.
A good foundation should slide over your skin effortlessly, but applying a silicone-based primer beforehand will prevent your base from slipping away, giving you an all-night flawless glow. Powder will also increase the staying power of your foundation, and control any oily shine zones that may surface throughout the evening.
Eyes can also use a bit of prepping. Use an eye primer will keep the powder pigment of your shadows in place. Choose colors that will look good in dim lighting and blend, blend, blend. Curl your top lashes to help keep your eyes looking wide open. After applying mascara, comb lashes immediately to prevent clumps from forming. When you use a brow pencil to fill in sparse brows, you can apply a liquid brow setter to keep it in place all night, or choose to apply a powder brow product on top of the pencil application.
The same primer you used on your eyes can also double as a lip primer. Use a lipliner to define lips, then fill them in before applying your lipstick or gloss. The liner will help prevent lipstick from bleeding. If your lips are cracked and peeling, you will need to treat them beforehand, because no matter how attractive the lipstick color, it will not look good on chapped lips. First, moisturize your lips heavily with a vitamin E Stick or a good lip moisturizer. Next, you can lightly brush your lips with an old toothbrush to remove dead skin cells, and moisturize again before applying liner or pigment.
Grab your favorite perfume and dab a few drops on your throat, inner wrists, and knees. As a final touch, you can apply a dab of gloss at the center of lips for a poutier mouth, and sweep a shimmery highlighter across the brow bones, cheekbones, and inner V of the eyes.
Spending a bit of time to apply your makeup correctly and packing a few essentials for on-the-go beauty will boost your confidence and give you the ability to really enjoy your evening out. A bit of prep always goes a long way.
Risselle Naimark is a Professional Freelance Makeup Artist and Skincare Consultant. She carries an extensive line of personalized skincare, cosmetics, and anti-aging products. Risselle is also available for weddings, Bar Mitzvahs, makeup lessons, and all of your beauty needs. She can be reached at 718 263-5517.