BELIEVE me when I say that I really am trying to travel light. I’m going on a 10-day trip soon, and I’m editing my makeup kit to include only essentials. Normally, I would go on a two-day trip with two liquid foundations, two powder foundations and a loose powder—and that’s just for the face.
I would also normally bring six lipsticks and two lip balms. I mean, how many lips do I have? It’s not like my makeup is edgy or anything remotely like that. I normally go for a natural look.
So here are the makeup items that I have packed (so far):
• GUERLAIN METEORITES BABY GLOW LIGHT REVEALING SHEER MAKEUP ANTIFATIGUE EFFECT BABY GLOW FOUNDATION SPF25 PA++. This face base, which comes in a tube, is very convenient for traveling because of its size. It is also a good face base if you have non-problematic skin. So if you are someone who wants to conceal scars, dark spots and pimples, this is not the right foundation for you. This is sheer (with light to medium coverage), but has blurring properties and evens out the complexion so you look fresh, and rested, even if you just slept for only three hours. It also has an SPF of 25, which is not much but is still something. There is a slight scent of violets, but nothing too bothersome.
• SHISEIDO SYNCHRO SKIN INVISIBLE SILK LOOSE POWDER. I know everyone is about the Laura Mercier translucent loose powder, but this Shiseido loose powder is a product that I really like because it is flat and compact, and includes a sponge. The product also doesn’t spill and make a mess inside your makeup kit. I have this in Radiant. I love the way it sets my makeup and, because of its size, I can also bring this in my bag for touch-ups. I’ll be honest: This is my favorite from the Shiseido Synchro Skin line.
• MAKE UP FOR EVER MATTE VELVET SKIN BLURRING POWDER FOUNDATION. This waterproof powder foundation has been called a next-generation product, which is true. I am in love with this. This has a second-skin finish that is unmatched. It blurs imperfections, and stays on your face even when you sweat. Most days, I just wear this over sunscreen. I love it so much that I have two of this product.
• TARTE AMAZONIAN CLAY 12-HOUR BLUSH IN NATURAL BEAUTY. If I could only use one blush in my life, it would be this. It’s long lasting, and applies smoothly and evenly. The rosy red blush is finely milled and, in my opinion, one of the best blushes out there. I love that there are minis of this, as the full size of the Tarte Amazonian Clay 12-Hour Blush can be pricey.
• BENEFIT BROW STYLER. This multitasker has an eyebrow pencil and powder in a slim pencil. Apparently, you’re supposed to use the powder first and fill in with the pencil. The waterproof formula promises 18-hour wear. If you already have well-groomed brows, you can just use the powder.
• SUNNIES FACE LIFEBROW GROOMING GEL. As far as brow gels are concerned, this is my ride or die. I would not travel without this. It stays on your brows until you decide to take it off, so it’s perfect for long days.
• HOURGLASS AMBIENT LIGHTING PALETTE. This is a classic that I will never get tired of. I use Incandescent Light as a highlight, and Dim Light as an overall finishing powder. Sadly, I haven’t used Radiant Light a lot as it’s too intense. The powders actually work to diffuse and soften the look of your skin with what the brand calls Photoluminescent Technology. The powders are long lasting and not chalky at all, so they really blend well.
• LIPSTICKS. Tom Ford Casablanca, Pussycat and Dominic; Sunnies Face Fluffmates in bday and milkshake; MAC in Velvet Teddy and Taupe; Sunnies Face Lip Dip in terracotta and femmebot.