ConcealerConcealer is one of those basic makeup essentials to keep on you at all times (just in case). Choose a creamy formula that can hide under-eye circles and uninvited blemishes. FoundationFoundation is, well, the foundation of any makeup routine—basic or elaborate—but you don’t need to slather it all over your face. Just apply in places where you see uneven skin tone or discoloration. If you don’t need as much coverage as a liquid foundation provides or prefer something a little lighter, consider a tinted moisturizer instead. BlushWhen it comes to choosing a go-to blush, look for a warm tone that adds a splash of color to the apples of your cheeks (and a little life to your whole complexion). Translucent Setting PowderA quick, light dusting of translucent powder at the end sets makeup and controls shine. You’ll particularly love having a shine-busting setting powder on hand if you tend to have an oily T-zone or tend to sweat easily. It’s also a godsend when covering up blemishes or discoloration you’d rather not share with the world: Apply foundation to the problem spot, set with powder, apply a dab of concealer, then set with powder again. MascaraThere’s no better way to wake up and define those eyes than by enhancing your lashes—and a good mascara is all you need. Stick with basic black mascara (or dark brown if you have light hair and lashes). It’s up to you whether or not you use waterproof mascara. Just make sure you protect those lashes by removing mascara with care. Neutral Eye ShadowA neutral beige or taupe eye shadow is an instant brightener when swiped across the upper lid. Defining Eye ShadowFor a slightly more defined shadow, choose a medium neutral shade like warm brown or charcoal gray. Brush the shadow in the crease of the eye, just under the brow bone, to add depth. Eye LinerYou can use your darker shade of eye shadow as a liner along the lashes—or use a dark brown or black pencil to create a thin line that defines and enhances your eyes. LipstickHow about some color? Lipstick (or tint, gloss, or stain if you want a less saturated look) is the perfect antidote to the midweek blahs. You’ll be stunned by what a swipe of color can do for your lips, face, and mood. Not feeling bold and bright at the moment? Opt for a natural pink or nude lipstick instead. Fluffy Powder BrushKeep one big, rounded makeup brush to dust on your setting powder once you’ve finished your makeup. Blush BrushThis brush is a bit smaller than your big powder brush and is the right size for dabbing the cheeks with color and blending along the cheekbones. Eye Shadow BrushA basic beginner’s makeup kit should include an all-over eye shadow brush that gets your entire lid covered in one swipe. Crease BrushThis smaller, rounded eye shadow brush will get into the crease when you add a darker shade for definition. Eye Liner BrushA small, flat, angled brush can be used to line the eyes or add a bit of brow powder to lackluster eyebrows. TweezersKeep a pair of tweezers in your makeup bag to clean up any stray hairs around your brows that show up in between brow appointments.
