Must-Have Makeup Essentials for Women

Is this your first foray into makeup? Once you’ve made it past mascara and eyeliner, you discover that there’s a whole other world of cosmetics to choose from. Applying it all can be overwhelming enough, but packing it up so that it’s all in easy reach is more than most of us can handle. Take a deep breath, put everything on the dresser, and use these essentials as your go-to items.

Brow Pencil

Yes, we know, brows may seem like a really insignificant part of your makeup routine. But well-groomed brows offer a polished and fresh look, so don’t forget to carry a brow pencil in your bag or purse. We recommend carrying a product that combines a brow pencil and a spoolie. This way, during the day, you can simply brush your brows to keep them looking defined. 

Neutral Eyeshadow

Huge eyeshadow palettes with every color under the sun are great to have, but they’re not portable. And let’s be real: You’re unlikely to use every single shade every day. Given this, it makes sense to take the minimalist approach and purchase a thoughtful-designed compact palette with only the most neutral shades. Just ensure that the palette you pick offers a decent color payoff. 

A tip: Pick a palette with both matte and shimmery shades, so you don’t have to carry a separate palette if you want to change your eye makeup from subtle to dramatic. 

Concealer

Concealer should be used sparingly, but it is a miracle product that can brighten up under-eye circles and blur imperfections and blemishes elsewhere. We recommend opting for a hydrating concealer that won’t dry out your skin. Before you use concealer, make sure to moisturize your skin, so the concealer doesn’t look patchy. If you already have a full face of makeup on, simply spot correct with your concealer when required. 

Lipstick

Whether you want a light wash of color or would like to go bold, a little bit of lipstick or lip gloss can help you pull your look together. From ruby red to pale pink, you’ll have no trouble finding the perfect shade for you. But it’s a good idea to pick a lipstick that has shea butter or vitamins, so it doesn’t dry out your lips.