Essential Cosmetic Tools

Husbands regularly complain about the mess of makeup equipment spread all over the bath or bedroom.  “Is all that really necessary?”  they ask in dismay.

In truth, you really don’t need a lot of makeup equipment to do the job and do it well.  Below are the basics of makeup equipment, with options left up to you.

A mirror is essential to view your work.  Whether sitting or standing, you may appreciate a swing-out type mirror, if you have a place to mount one.  Whether wall-mounted or table-type, the mirror should allow you to view your face at eye level and close-up.

If you have difficulty seeing, rely on a magnifying mirror.  They are available at 3X, 4X, and 5X.  I know, seeing yourself in one of those mirrors borders on self-torture.  They work, however, letting you see the condition of your skin and apply your makeup attractively.

Adequate lighting on both sides of your face is also essential during the makeup process.  If not adequate, move to a table facing a window, since that’s the lights others will see you in by day.  Or, consider getting a side-lighted mirror, wall-mounted or table-type.  Light strips can also be bought at an electrical supply or lighting shop and installed on both sides of your mirror.

A headband or hair clips are nice when needed to keep your hair away from your face.  A soft cloth or soft, disposable tissues are also handy.

Tweezers are usually needed to pluck out excess brows and eliminate stragglers.  Slanted-end tweezers are more efficient than the flat, blunt-end type.

If eyelashes are straight, a lash curler is used to softly crimp or curl lashes upward, before applying mascara.  Be gentle.  Don’t squeeze too tightly or pull or you’ll break or pull out lashes.  Replace the rubber pad as it becomes hard or chipped.

Inexpensive as well as disposable, cotton balls and swabs make excellent makeup applicators.

Cosmetic sponges are optional but very useful for applying foundations, contouring, and blending colors.  Sponges should be large enough to use on your face, but flat enough to get into corners.  Many women opt for clean fingers for skin-to-skin contact.

Equally optional are sponged-tipped applicators, which hold makeup powders and help clean up makeup mistakes.  Cotton swabs are an inexpensive alternative.

A firm, flat-edged eyebrow brush or a child’s toothbrush is useful to smooth and train unruly brows.  A thin, tapered eyeliner brush can define eyes, both under and above the lashes.  However, I find a soft eyeliner pencil creates a more natural-looking line.

A soft, full blush brush is a must for powder-type blush.  A short, stiff blush brush will leave a noticeable line.

Optional cosmetic brushes include a large, long-handled, soft, and rounded brush for applying loose face powder (although a clean cotton ball will do nicely); a lip-liner brush, thin and tapered to a fine point for defining the lips; and a lip-color brush, firm and straight-edged, for applying lip color.

Last but not the least, you’ll need a divided drawer tray and a plastic-lined bag to hold your make-up equipment.  Together, they should keep a bath or bedroom in better order and make a husband happier.

For your handbag, purchase a small, zippered cosmetic bag and supply yourself with your basic makeup, all for touch-ups in the car or at the office.

Note: This article was previously posted in the printed issue of The Corporate, Guide and Style for Professionals Magazine.