Whether your style is bold and fashion-forward or a more classic and subdued look, there’s no denying that makeup has the power to not only transform you but boost your confidence. Makeup has been used for centuries to make us feel like the best version of ourselves, stay “on trend,” compliment our naturally beautiful features and hide other appearance concerns we may feel insecure about. Whatever your motivation is to wear makeup, there are essentials that everyone should own in their makeup bag. It doesn’t matter if you’re starting to dabble with cosmetics or are a longtime enthusiast looking to revamp your collection; keep reading for the top makeup products everyone should take advantage of.
Mascara
For many women, mascara is the number one makeup item they won’t leave home without putting on. If our eyes are the windows to the soul, our lashes are the beautiful treatments surrounding them. Eyelashes are so important that women spend hundreds of dollars every couple of weeks to maintain their eyelash extensions, while others opt to invest in expensive serums that promise lash growth and volume. While the choice is yours to invest in the items mentioned, mascara is a must. There are mascara formulations for all types of lash concerns, whether lengthening, volumizing, waterproof, or for women looking for a lift to open their eyes more. Find the formula that works best for you, consider it your Holy Grail, and apply it religiously.
Liquid or Pencil Eyeliner
While the black cat-eye look may be synonymous with Cleopatra or Amy Winehouse, millions of women around the globe include eyeliner as part of their daily routine. Eyeliner has the power to transform the shape of your eyes, which can instantly change the mood of your appearance. Whether you reserve eyeliner for nights out or put it on daily, it’s essential in your makeup bag and can even be used to fill in brows in a pinch.
Powder or Cream Blush
Whether you’re a powder girl or a cream blush girl, it doesn’t matter, but one product that can keep you looking fresh-faced and youthful is blush, and it’s considered essential by celebrity makeup artists and stay-at-home moms alike. Blush doesn’t need a foundation underneath to make you look rosy-cheeked and flourishing. Make sure you apply your blush (whichever formulation you prefer) to the upper apple of your cheek close to your hairline and do so sparingly, but it’s a beautiful compliment to even the most minimalist makeup routine.
Liquid Eyeshadow
While several formulations have been referenced with the above products, and it doesn’t matter which you choose, liquid eyeshadow is always the way to go when it comes to your eyelids. It doesn’t matter if you’re young or aging; powder eyeshadow tends to settle in creases or cake, which can be aging even if you’re 17. It takes a knowledgeable and skillful hand to apply powder eyeshadow, but not so with liquid eyeshadow. You can invest in as many colors as you want, but a beautiful neutral that compliments your eye color and skin tone are essential if you only want to buy one to keep your routine simple.
Red Lipstick
Nothing is more iconic in the beauty industry than a fantastic red lip. Red lipstick fits many fashion styles, ages, and personality types in addition to being suitable for year-round wear. Whether preppy, punk rock or anywhere in between, having a go-to red lipstick in your makeup bag is key. Even if you reserve your bold red pout for festive days like Christmas, Valentine’s day, or just date nights, make sure you find a shade that suits you and keeps it ready.
Under Eye Concealer
With natural makeup looks in trend for the last few years and not seeming to go anywhere, many women are forgoing full-face foundation and even tinted moisturizer. Under Eye concealer can be your best friend by brightening your appearance, helping you look more awake, and hiding dark circles and puffiness. It can also highlight below your brows and cover any imperfections or blemishes on your face.
While you may have other makeup items that you deem essential, every woman should ensure she has the above items in her repertoire to always feel polished and pulled together. After all, when you look good, you feel good, and makeup is all about feeling great.
