Makeup Bag Essentials

If you are new to cosmetics, or you’re a full-on beauty guru, it is necessary to have the basic makeup bag essentials. Figuring out what to put in your makeup bag can be overwhelming, but you don’t need every nude lipstick that you own. Although, it is always good to have options. 

I’ve rounded up a list of must-haves that will complete your makeup bag. With this list of makeup bag essentials, you will always have everything you need.  

Primer

A great makeup look begins with great skin prep. Primer is the first step to any beauty routine and is essential for long-lasting makeup. You know the drill, apply an even amount all of your face. 

Foundation/Tinted Moisturizer

Even if you don’t wear foundation every day, it gives the appearance of fresh, youthful skin. Both foundation and tinted moisturizers are great options for evening out your skin tone. If you are going for an everyday look tinted moisturizer is a lighter option. It works as a two in one product for added hydration and coverage. Tinted moisturizer is a dream to blend and adapts to your skin tone. You can also try a stick foundation, it is travel-friendly, easy to apply, and won’t take up space in your makeup bag. 

Concealer

Concealer will help brighten up your skin and make you look more awake. Always choose a hydrating formula for your under-eye, this will help reduce the appearance of fine lines. Spot concealing is perfect for those days when you don’t feel like wearing foundation. It can also help cover any hyperpigmentation or redness.

Bronzer

Now that you’ve got your flawless base, it’s time to add some color and depth back into your complexion. The key here is to be subtle, don’t go overboard friends. Apply a light dusting into your hairline and across your cheeks. 

Blush

Blush is a must-have for any look and brightens your complexion, giving your look a fresh appearance. Ever since I started wearing makeup, I’ve always gravitated to MAC blushes because they’re long wearing. Blush is the first thing to go on your face, so don’t be afraid to apply it a little heavier. 

Highlighter

Give your skin a beautiful and healthy glow with highlight. Highlither comes in many different forms such as powder, liquid, cream, and stick. Finding the right formula for a highlighter is just as important as finding the right formula for foundation.

Setting Spray

Add the finishing touch your look by locking in your makeup with a setting spray. After you’ve added all that powder, your skin can look a little stiff, setting spray will refresh your face making it look like skin again. You can choose a mattifying spray if you have oily skin to keep the oil at bay and minimize pores. If your skin is on the dry side, setting sprays that contain oil will give your skin a dewy finish. 

Clear Lip Gloss

A clear gloss adds shine and hydration to your lips. Not to mention a little gloss goes great on top of your favorite matte lipstick. It can be worn with out without makeup. I never leave the house without wearing clear gloss. 

Nude & Bold Lipstick

Lipstick completes a makeup bag, the shades are endless. You can never go wrong with a nude or bold lipstick they are versatile and can accentuate any look. A classic red or deep purple amplifies your look without adding anything extra like eyeshadow or eyeliner. 

Expierimenting with different shades and formulas can be a lot of fun, I remember when matte liquid lipsticks were very popular. They still are, but satin finishes have become a favorite of mine. They provide more comfort while staying put on the lips.

Neutral Eyeshadow 

It is best to choose a neutral palette that can be used for both daytime and nighttime looks. A wash of color is perfect for the office, and for happy hour you can create a glam smokey eye. An eyeshadow palette that has four basic shades is a winner in my book. I have yet to get my hands on a Charlotte Tilbury Luxury Palette, but that is a perfect example of a palette that creates multiple looks with ease. With there only being four shadows, you don’t have to wonder what will go with what, these types of palettes are great for beginners. 

Eyeliner 

Eyeliner is one of the easiest ways to take your look from day to night. It can be used in the water line or blown out on the lower lash line for a smoky effect. 

Brow Pencil 

Eyebrows are the most important feature on your face. They shape the face and accentuate the eyes. If you prefer a natural brow or a fuller brown, brow pencils help fill in sparseness giving your eyebrows a fuller apperance.

Mascara

If you’re like me and have a hard time applying false lashes, mascara is the way to go. Mascara gives your lashes a lift and ties your eye look together. There are plenty of mascaras on the market that work to provide length and thickness to your eyelashes.

Blotting Paper

Blotting paper is an actual lifesaver. You only need one for your entire face on the areas to produce the most oil. They remove oil and sweat without ruining your makeup, remember it is always best to blot before applying more powder. 

Brushes/Applicators

No matter what look you’re going for, it is great to keep a small brush set with the essentials handy. Morphe makes a 12 piece travel set for $29 that includes a variety of face and eye brushes.

Aside from a brush set, Beauty Blenders or any makeup sponge is an essential because they can be used to blend out cream products. This makes sure your makeup is thoroughly blended. Beauty sponges absorb the product and give the skin a flawless, even finish.

What do you think?

Are there any products that I didn’t include? What are some of your favorite products? Is this too much, too little, or just right for you? Let me know in the comments!