Life

13 Tools Makeup Artists Can't Live Without

by Ni'Kesia Pannell

One thing I'm not well versed on is makeup products. It really doesn't matter how many YouTube tutorials I watch or how many articles I read from makeup artists, I just can't seem to get the hang of making my face look as flawless as theirs. As a result, I tend to keep it pretty simple when it comes to my makeup and try to stay away from anything that's over $10. Having recommendations of tools that makeup artists can't live without and that I can trust though, have helped me stay within budget and get as close to their flawless routines as possible.

Although I still have quite a long way to go, knowing that I have some good products in my bag now is a plus. I have very sensitive skin, so there's massive importance in ensuring that whatever I'm using does not cause a breakout or damage my skin in any way. When I do get my makeup done and artists ask me what I'm using, it's usually some drugstore dupe that I found for a better price.

Clearly I'm not professional, but these 13 product and tool recommendations that came from a few professionals can help you get the look that you're searching for. And, they might even be in your budget.

1

Hair Donut Bun

Hair Bun Maker (3-piece), $7, Amazon

Makeup artist Pauline Persaud says to me that a hair donut bun is her go to product because it allows her to use the same brush for multiple colors by cleaning the brush in seconds.

2

NYX Pore Filler

NYX Pore Filler Primer, $11, Amazon

Talented up and coming makeup artist Eboni Harris recommends NYX Pore Filler Primer because of the "sleek finish it encourages for your makeup."

3

The Blushed Nudes Palette by Maybelline

The Blushed Nudes Palette by Maybelline, $7, Amazon

Celebrity makeup artist Allan Avendaño told Teen Vogue that The Blushed Nudes Palette by Maybelline is one of his must have products. The famed artist said of the palette, "every single one of the colors in the palette were so much more versatile on their own than I thought they would be."

4

Burt's Bees Tinted Lip Balm

Burt's Bees Tinted Lip Balm, $7, Amazon

Celebrity makeup artist Molly Stern revealed to Allure that one of her favorite products is the Burt's Bees Tinted Lip Balm because "it feels good and offers the perfect hint of color."

5

Aveeno's Clear Complexion Daily Moisturizer

Aveeno Clear Complexion Daily Moisturizer, $12, Amazon

Eboni Harris also tells me that Aveeno's Clear Complexion Daily Moisturizer is kept in her routine because, "it's great for keeping your skin filled with moisture throughout the day."

6

Biore Deep Pore Charcoal Cleanser

Biore Deep Pore Charcoal Cleanser, $5, Amazon

Allan Avendaño also recommended the Biore Deep Pore Charcoal Cleanser to Teen Vogue, saying "its charcoal ingredients make it spectacular at removing makeup and leaves a refreshing tingling feeling while reducing the appearance of your pores."

7

SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Body Lotion

SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Body Lotion, $18, Amazon

Pro artist Ashunta Sheriff told SELF that SheaMoisture's Coconut & Hibiscus Body Lotion is a great moisturizer for the summer because it has a "whipped consistency, so it feels super lightweight, yet it's very hydrating as it leaves behind a healthy glow."

8

Revlon PhotoReady Skinlights Face Illuminator

Revlon PhotoReady Skinlights Face Illuminator, $7, Amazon

Makeup artist Ashleigh Ciucci told Allure that the Revlon PhotoReady Skinlights Face Illuminator is a favorite of hers because "it's easily blendable, flawless on the skin, and [gives] the perfect amount of shimmer."

9

Maybelline Fit Me Dewy + Smooth Foundation

Maybelline Fit Me Dewy + Smooth Foundation, $6, Amazon

Makeup artist to Gigi Hadid Morgane Martini told Huffington Post that she loves Maybelline's Fit Me Dewy + Smooth Foundation because "it has a good amount of coverage, but it looks really natural and light."

10

Biore Self Heating One Minute Mask

Biore Self Heating One Minute Mask, $6, Amazon

The Biore Self Heating One Minute Mask is celeb artist Allan Avendaño's favorite because "it's the most amazing way to decongest your skin after a long day," according to SELF.

11

Cover FX Mattifying Primer

Cover FX Mattifying Primer, $38, Sephora

Atlanta-based makeup artist LaChristy James tells me that Cover FX Mattifying Primer is one of her favorite primers because it, "allows you to get a flawless look."

12

EcoTools Flat Eyeliner Brush

EcoTools Eye Enhancing Duo Brush Set, $5, Amazon

Andrew Sotomayor told Teen Vogue that the EcoTools Flat Eyeliner Brush does wonders for his clients saying, "the synthetic fibers are very gentle on eyelids." Not to mention the whole this is recyclable.

13

NARS Orgasm Blush

NARS Orgasm Blush, $30, Sephora

Makeup guru Cami Shahan tells Romper that the NARS Orgasm Blush "goes with everything and gives you a subtle glow without having to pile on the highlighter. It's great for all skin tones too."