Weekly Favorites: Makeup Bag Essentials

Last week, I wrote about non-favorite beauty products among my friends and I, so this week I’m highlighting the products that I REALLY like and use on a daily basis. Here’s what is currently in heavy rotation in my makeup bag:

Urban Decay NakedBasics and Naked 2 Basics Palettes: I know, I know—I am always going on and on about these palettes but for good reason—they are fantastic! Whether you’re new to wearing eye shadow or you’re looking for everyday neutral shades, these are great palettes to own. For more, read my Naked 2 Basics review.

MAC Eye Kohl EyeLiner Pencil in Smolder: My go-to eye liner pencil and as straight forward as you can get. The liner glides on smoothly producing a true black line; I love using it as an everyday liner or to create a smoky eye.

Physicians FormulaPowder Palette Mineral Glow Pearls in Translucent: If you only ever purchase one highlighter, this is the one to get. The product gives a pretty pearlescent sheen without being over-the-top shimmery, leaving cheeks with a natural glow. I also use it on inner corners of eye and brow bone to highlight my eyes.

Benefit “HelloFlawless!” Oxygen Wow Foundation: If you read last week’s post you might be thinking, ‘Wait, wasn’t this one the list of beauty fails?’ True, but it wasn’t my fail. I have been using this foundation for several weeks now and really like it. The foundation is lightweight, so it’s not full coverage and concealer may still be needed; however it does leave my skin smooth, even and brighten any dullness. I apply my face powder over and it lasts all day!

MAC Powder Blush inBlushbaby: Classic everyday color that has been one of MAC’s most popular for years Sheer, buildable color. Should be in every makeup bag/kit natural looking flush, great on a variety of skin tones

e.l.f. Essential NaturalLash Kit: When I need fake lashes for a costume or outfit, I run out to pick up a pair of these. At just $1, they are crazy affordable, especially when they’re going to get tossed at the end of the night, and have a nice, natural shape. I do recommend tossing the glue they come with and opting for Duo Eyelash Adhesive (another must-have!) instead.

Urban Decay EyeShadow Primer Potion: UDPP is a cult product for a reason, it’s that good. Blends easily, doesn’t feel heavy, dries quickly and does what it’s supposed to—helps shadow look even, keeps shadow from creasing and lasts throughout the day. Especially good for oily lids, but works well on my dryer skin as well. A little goes a long way and this stuff lasts, don’t let the price tag scare you away.

Physicians FormulaEye Booster 2-In-1 Lash Boosting Eyeliner + Serum: When I want a classic cat eye, I read for this bad boy. It’s a liquid eyeliner with a super fine brush and an excellent formula that dries quickly (no smudges!) and stays put all day. It also has an added bonus of a lash boosting serum which enhances lashes over time.

MAC Eye Shadow inSatin Taupe: If I were forced to have just one eye shadow to use for the rest of my life, it would be MAC’s iconic Satin Taupe. The color, the pigmentation, the ease of which it applies- seriously, like silk- is just absolutely amazing. It’s a frosty mid-tone grey-brown and has a perfect balance of shimmer—definitely a versatile, go-to shade to add to your makeup collection if you haven’t already.

Smashbox Photo FinishFoundation Primer SPF 20: Call me old-school but this has been a favorite foundation primer of mine for years. When primers first started stealing the beauty scene several years ago, this was one of the major players and still is. Smashbox’s primer line has since grown to include primers for redness, illumination and my personal favorite, with the added bonus of SPF.

What are some of your makeup bag essentials?