My top favorite productsMy makeup bag is more like a makeup drawer...well, four drawers. And then there's the makeup underneath the sink in my bathroom. Oh, and the emergency bag in my purse. But who's counting? I want to share with you my most cherished, can't live without, multifaceted makeup products that every woman needs to have when in a bind. This led me to think about what I would most want with me if I was shipwrecked on a tiny island in the Caribbean; it also led me to believe I need a vacation. Maybe you aren't on a deserted island, but going out in public without essentials, well let's just say it can be frightening sometimes. Here are my faves:
Jane Iredale Tinted Moisturizer
This simple product takes care of three issues. First, use your ring finger to dab a bit of this under the eyes, on any areas of skin discoloration and areas that may be extra red. This takes the place of a concealer. Next, put a full layer on the face, rubbing only lightly in circular motions heading down the neck as you finish. This takes care of your moisturizer, sunscreen and foundation, and won't leave one looking cake-y. Choose a yellow base for blue undertones; choose a golden base for olive skintones. Finally, if one needs more coverage, simple add another layer.
This product is my essential because it is not messy like a powder, but sets like a powder once it is applied. There is no extra brush needed and is smooths out nicely with no clumping.
Black eyeshadow
Pick your favorite brand, just know the high-end, or prestige, brands will have better spreadability because the shadow will be ground into a finer powder. I chose this product because, like the moisturizer, it has multiple uses. For one thing, you can dab your Eye Smudge Brush in water, then into your eyeshadow. This changes its consistency, making it more pliable to apply to the lids as an eyeliner. The sponge side of the Eye Smudge Brush can be used to spread the eyeshadow the old-fashioned way. Smooth out the liner, or create a killer smokey eye. If you haven't guess yet, my next item is the:
Eye Smudge Brush
Try a brush that is two brushes in one with a small sponge or smudger on one end, and a lined brushed on the other. The sponge is great for smudging two colors together. Maybe you are stuck in the rain and off comes the mascara. Perhaps you ran into an old friend and were bawling your eyes out over a break up. Maybe there is a handsome man on your deserted island and you haven't got any eyeliner on. Hey, I don't know your situation, but I do know this brush will fix you right up. You can also use it to write an SOS note.
Paula Dorf Wet Sand - Eyeshadow/Lowlighter/FaceMaker
This product is fantastic. This perfect powder is so fine, it will look airbrushed. First, use the spongy side of the Eye Smudge Brush to apply along the upper eyelid, after the black eyeshadow is applied. Next, take a blush brush and apply just below the cheekbones to contour the face. If a brush isn't available, it can easily be applied with three fingers. You can also use along the jawline or the sides of the nose to contour the face. Wow, that girl has good bone structure, people will think. Why tell them any different?
Fat Girl Slim - Neck, Thighs, Tummy
Made by Bliss, this thick cream should be applied to any areas that need tightening and cellulite reduction. It works well when used consistently. That means put it next to your toothpaste or eye creams so you remember to use it daily. Rub on the area you feel needs it for 30 seconds. Massage it into the skin like your flab depends on it...because it does. My favorite areas for use? Thighs, rumpus and neck. Why is this on my list of necessities? Because over time, it makes a real difference in tightening the skin. One can't just use makeup all day without finding ways to keep skin smooth.
Do you agree with Mel's choices? What are some of your favorite products to have by your side if you were left on a deserted island?
Mel B. is a Yahoo! Shine Beauty Guru, a writer of all things beauty, and Founder of www.AskASalon.com, where Beauty Pro's connect, network, and answer questions for savvy women wanting the best beauty information. When she's not working, you'll find her hanging with her family in Pacifica, CA, or just contemplating life with walks along the beach, typically with a hardcore energy drink in hand. Email her at mel@askasalon.com
