I'm a huge makeup junkie, and I love trying new products. Here are my favorite must-haves right now- some have stood the test of time, while others are brand new and already cult-favorites.
The Product: Lancôme Hypnôse Drama Mascara
Why It's Special: I've been using this mascara for as long as I can remember. Every now and then I'll try something new, but I always come back to it. It lengthens, separates, and thickens in a way that nothing else does- creating lashes so fluffy, people will think they're falsies.
Hot Tip: It takes a week or so for the formula to settle into the brush. It might seem counter-productive, but use a tissue to wipe excess mascara from the wand during the first week or two after purchasing. Too much product prevents the wand from working it's magic. Trust me on this. You'll know when it's settled right.
The Product: NARS Bronzer in Laguna
Why It's Special: This bronzer is a cult favorite, and for good reason. Its matte formula boasts a warm, neutral shade that compliments lots of skin tones. It's subtle enough to look natural, but can be layered for a more dramatic look.
Hot Tip: Swirl this bronzer in a"3″ shape across your temple, cheekbones, and chin for a chiseled, contoured effect. Start with a small amount of product and build as needed. A little goes a long way!
The Product: Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer
Why It's Special: Part moisturizer, part foundation, this product offers the perfect amount of coverage. It's great for those days when you need a little something, but don't want to commit to a full-coverage look.
Hot Tip: Use it in the winter when the weather is dry to keep your skin from drying out. Need a little extra coverage? Scroll down...
The Product: NARS Creamy Concealer
Why It's Special: The name says it all: this concealer is so creamy and delicious on your skin, and it comes in an array of colors for all skin tones. Apply it under your eyes and over blemishes for extra coverage or use it as a highlighter à la Kardashians.
Hot Tip: Apply where necessary and use a damp beauty blender to blend it out for seamless coverage.
The Product: Nail Techniques Formula 2
Why It's Special: I have been searching for a polish that would strengthen my nails for as long as I can remember, and this is the only product that's ever made a difference. Within 1 week of using, my paper-thin nails became long, strong, and very healthy.
Hot Tip: Keep it at your desk, and apply daily. After a week, remove it, file and buff your nails, and reapply. Then start the process over until you see a difference.
The Product: Urban Decay Naked2 Basics Eye Shadow Palette
Why It's Special: An extension of UD's famous Naked palette, Naked2 is a travel-sized matte eyeshadow palette with six shades in taupe-hued neutrals. It's the perfect palette for every-day wear.
Hot Tip: Use the two lightest shades for highlighting, the middle shades for full lid coverage, and the dark hues to add drama and definition.
The Product: Guerlain Meteorites Base Perfecting Pearls
Why It's Special: This primer gives you that glow from within look with a touch of light-reflection- not sparkle.
Hot Tip: Swirl onto skin with a foundation brush and let it dry for a minute or two before applying the rest of your makeup.
The Product: Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra Longwear Foundation Stick.
Why It's Special: This foundation stick is super light weight and gives amazing all-day coverage. It's a versatile product and the perfect size for traveling or popping in your purse for touch-ups (not that you'll need them!)
Hot Tip: Purchase one in your skin tone for all-over coverage and one a few shades darker to use a contouring stick. Check this video out to see how it's done:
The Product: Urban Decay Eye Shadow Primer
Why It's Special: Unlike most eye-shadow primers I've tried, this one actually works! It goes on so light and prevents buildup from forming in my crease.
Hot Tip: Make sure your eyelid is totally clean without lotion or eye cream before applying. Use the wand to apply to closed lid, then blend out with a clean finger. Smudge into the top and bottom lash line to keep eyeliner or a smokey eye in place.
The Product: Burt's Bees Lip Balm
Why It's Special: I've been using this lip balm for as long as I can remember. It's long-lasting formula works magic on dry, chapped lips and the minty cooling effect feels great.
Hot Tip: Apply before bed and wake up with soft, kissable lips in the morning.
The Product: Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz
Why It's Special: The ultra-fine, retractable tip is precise in mimicking fine, hair-like strokes. This smudge-proof formula stays put all day and the built-in spoolie helps create fresh, natural-looking brows.
Hot Tip: Outline your brow shape before filling in with short strokes, then blend gently with the small spoolie wand.
