Friday Favorites: Make-up Must-Haves

This week’s Friday Favorites features cosmetics that I cannot live without (these would all be on my “desert island list”).  My routine is pretty minimal but I use the products below daily.

Lashes: VB Beauty Lash | Benefit “They’re Real”

I have been using Benefit’s They’re Real mascara for a long time now. What makes this mascara stand out above the rest (and I have used everything from Maybelline to Dior), is the torture-device looking ball at the end which really accentuares the corner lashes, creating a magical, winged effect.  Additionally, I have been using VB Beauty Lash serum for the past 6 months.  The difference in the length and volume of my lashes is unbelievable. If you take one thing away from my blog, THIS IS IT! Soon I will be “forced” to trim my lashes, they are that long. These two products will revolutionize your lash game.

Lips: L’Oreal Paris Lip Balm | NARS Velvet Matte Pencil

I’m always on the hunt for lipstick that I can put on with ease. I just discovered the L’Oreal Colour Riche Balm and I am impressed. It feels great on your lips, like a lip balm yet delivers just the right amount of subtle color. Other balms I have used either are too slick and/or don’t have enough color. This balm is both hydrating and offers beautiful color…and is less than $10 (score)! The NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencil has been in the rotation for awhile because the color and ease of application cannot be beat. Great, saturated matte color without drying and the pencil is so easy to apply.  My favorite color is “Damned” (I wear it frequently in my outfit posts), but it tends to sell out.

Brows: Benefit “Gimme Brow” | Maybelline Define-A-Brow Pencil

I get my brows dyed (and then use the hairspray on the toothbrush technique I posted about previously); however, in between appointments, I use Benefit’s Gimme Brow. In addition to adding color to your brows, the gel also tames stray hairs.  Previous to this discovery, I had been using Maybelline’s Define-A-Brow Pencil (this is a great alternative to the Anastasia pencil and is a fraction of the price!).  The only reason I prefer the gel is for it’s hair taming properties (saving me from defining and then using hairspray – extra seconds add up!).

Cheeks: NARS The Multiple: Orgasm

The NARS Multiple cream blush has been in rotation the longest; tried and true, I have not strayed. A make-up artist recently tried to convince me of the merits of using this product with a brush (more hygenic and an even application…blah, blah, blah), I prefer to simply use my finger tips both for ease of use and, I feel like it helps me blend in the product the best…but maybe I’m just not adept with a brush!

Tell me, what’s on your “desert island, can’t live without” list? Please leave a comment.

Thanks for reading and enjoy a terrific weekend! ~Jenn