As a makeup artist, one of the most frequent questions I am asked is: “What are your favorite products?” And honestly, I never get tired of this question. Why? Because I spend a lot of time testing different beauty and makeup brands, trying to find the tools that will help me create the most flawless looks for my clients. And I love to share my favorites! There is a long history of women coming together to share ideas, recipes, recommendations, and advice, and that incredibly powerful feminine energy is a culture I celebrate at the Beauty Lab, my makeup studio and airbrush tanning salon in Newport, RI. Because honestly, who do you go to first when you are looking for a new restaurant, a new blender, a new dentist, or the best workout class in town? You go to all of the women in your life.
Whether you are doing your everyday makeup or getting ready for a special event, it makes your life easier to have the best products on hand. So without further ado…here are my top product recommendations of the moment.
Beauty Blender Charcoal Soap: The absolute GOAT of brush cleansing soap. Simply dampen your brush, swirl a few times on the bar of soap and watch the makeup literally melt off. This soap is made with palm oils and also includes aloe and coconut oil. It comes with a silicone mat for those not so easy to clean stains! Not only does it keep your brushes looking brand new, it also conditions them. I highly recommend. I’ve been using this for the last 5 years or so and my brushes, some of which are 6 years old, look brand new!
Dior Face & Body Foundation: One of the 3 different foundations I’m sure to keep in my kit! Luminous yet equally mattifying, this foundation evens out and smoothes the complexion immediately upon application. I sometimes even add a bit of liquid highlight for a little extra glow. Dior Face & Body does not disappoint, as it gives a second skin finish but erases all imperfections without too much layering!
Embryolisse lait-crème concentré: A moisturizer that, quite literally, does it all. It works as a cream, makeup base, cleansing milk, moisturizing mask and after sun care! It works well on just about all skin types (except super oily skin, in which case I would recommend Embryolisse Hydra Matte). Who knew a moisturizer that retails for only $29 could be so amazing? Take my word for it…it’s NOT too good to be true!
Artist Pencil (Makeup Forever): A makeup pencil that does IT ALL. Lips, cheeks, and eyeliner all in one. This pencil is my favorite to use under the eye as it is super malleable and easy to smoke out. For even more of a pop, top with a shadow!
Bionic Glow (Milk makeup): This weightless liquid illuminator that can be used in a few different ways. Great to add to moisturizer and/or foundation. It’s 90% natural, vegan and cruelty free! You don’t want to sleep on this one!
Warm Wishes Effortless Bronzer Stick (Rare Beauty): Look no further for the do-it-all bronzer/contour stick. This stick creates an instant sun kissed glow. Swipe, blend and GO. I’ve tried just about every contour stick on the market and this bronzer stick blows them all out of the water. Super easy to blend and does not disturb foundation!
But wait… there’s more!
On Til’ Dawn Setting Spray (One Size): Your makeup kit is NOT complete without this setting spray! It’s waterproof, transfer proof and rub-off-proof…need I say more?
Pro Longwear Fluidline Eye Liner & Brow Gel (MAC): A gel liner and brow gel in one, say what?! Yes, it’s true and yes, it lasts ALL day and is smudge proof once completely dry. Apply with a brush for a snatched cat eye or smoke out for a more subdued liner!
Soft Pop Plumping Blush Veil (Makeup by Mario): Best of the best for cream blush. Easy to apply with blush. Goes on so smoothly and requires minimal blending if any at all!
Look of Love Lipstick in Wedding Belles (Charlotte Tillbury): The PERFECT pinky nude. Although this is marketed as a more matte lipstick it is equal parts creamy and will not dry out your lips! The best part is you can buy refills instead of buying the whole tube everytime!
Naked Lash 420 (Ardell): They don’t call these naked lashes for no reason. They blend seamlessly into your lash line for a gorgeous eye brightening look. These natural 420 lashes are great for everyday but also have the versatility to be used with a full glam look!
I have more up my sleeve but I will stop here for now, although I’ll update this list from time to time and let you all know. I’d love to hear from you, too – what are some of your favorite products? Do these resonate with you? Or, if you’re planning to try them, let us know once you do. Let’s continue the sharing.
