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Tuesday, October 21, 2014

The Best New Ways To Clean Your Makeup Brushes


                                            Breakouts. Poor makeup application. Ruined brushes. These are all things we’d rather dodge, right? Turns out, skimping on cleansing your makeup brushes and sponges can cause all of the above, as bacteria builds up on bristles — not cool for your skin or tools.

Of course, you can’t blame a girl for not being super enthusiastic about the process and putting it off for as long as possible. The whole thing is so hard to figure out, and, well, straight-up gross. There’s constant debate about what you should use to clean brushes: Is dish soap really okay? And, it feels like it takes an eternity to get all that gunk off your tools…and hands. Nasty. Oh, and waking up to still-damp brushes? The worst. Kiss any chance of decent-looking makeup goodbye.

Thankfully, the makeup gods have answered our prayers, and tons of handy new inventions are now on the market to make the process easier, quicker, and a little less disgusting. They’re so cool, in fact, that you’ll be looking forward to treating your tools properly. Click through to see the best of these holy-grail developments. Here’s to clear skin and longer-lasting brushes.
          

Wearing a glove means no germs or makeup residue on your hands. (Hallelujah.) You can use one side of it for face brushes and the other for eye brushes. On each side, clusters of differently textured bumps indicate cleansing steps: “wash,” “rinse,” “refine,” and “shape.” It’s shockingly effective — and you only have to go through the process once for your brushes to be squeaky-clean.
Sigma Beauty Spa Brush Cleaning Glove, $35, available at Sigma Beauty.

Love the idea of the Sigma glove, but looking for a little more hands-on control? The BrushEgg slips onto two fingers, so all of your digits aren’t restricted. This tiny tool — which comes in adorable pink and mint colors — is a simple two-step: The knobs on top are perfect for lathering, while the bottom grooves work hard to get all that junk out. You can use it with whatever soap you like.
BrushEgg BrushEgg!, $8, available at BrushEgg.

Ahh, simplicity. What could be easier than swirling your brushes atop this solid balm before running them under the tap? Plus, the incredibly gentle goat-milk formula will spoil your brushes and avoid irritating the skin. And, the smell? To die for. Who knew cleaning your tools could feel luxurious?
Japonesque Solid Brush Cleanser, $20, available at Ulta.

Are you a girl on the go? Then, you’ll love these non-alcohol wipes. Simply lay one of them onto a flat surface and brush your tools over it. They come in individually wrapped packets, so you can leave one in your purse, one in your office, one in your car...basically wherever you need to be on the daily. Be aware, though: These won’t replace your occasional deep-cleaning.
Sephora Collection Brush It Off Cleansing Brush Wipes, $16, available at Sephora.

Someone must have called this brand and ranted about every possible problem that crops up during tool cleansing — because, seriously, this kit’s got it all. Wash your brushes with the brush shampoo inside the textured cleansing cup and blot with the bamboo cloth. Next, wrap the included brush guards around bristles to keep them in place, and leave them to dry in the ventilated vase. Yup, we’re pretty sure it has everything covered.
The Brush Guard Cleaning Kit, $19.98, available at Ulta.

What else could you expect from a company known for its theater and special-effects makeup? Apparently, they’ve got removing it down to a science, too. The lid locks, so you can pump cleanser into the bottle, lock it for use, and swirl brushes around to get them super clean. You can also keep it locked in your bag while you’re on the go. No purse leakage? We’re in.
Graftobian Menda Brush Cleaner Fluid Pump Dispenser, $26.99, available at Graftobian.
The mysteries of brush-cleaning aren’t completely debunked without a solution for how to stop drying those babies out. Once you’re done cleansing, stick 'em into this upside-down contraption to dry them more efficiently and keep bristles from flattening or getting wonky. They’ll be good to go in just a few hours — no need for that next-morning panic.
Benjabelle Original Brush Tree, $34.95, available at Benjabelle.

Monday, October 20, 2014

Easy peasy tuna cakes

Easy Peasy Tuna Cakes
Minutes to Prepare: 
Minutes to Cook: 

Ingredients
1 5-oz can of no-salt-added tuna
1/4 cup panko bread crumbs (separated)
1/2 tsp spicy brown mustard
1 cup baby spinach
2 egg whites
2 tbsp ground flax meal
2 tbsp dried basil
1 tbsp white wine 


Directions
Drain the tuna. Wilt spinach and blot dry with a towel. (I cooked it in a pan, but you can steam it or microwave if you'd like.)

Mix all ingredients together EXCEPT the bread crumbs. Form into 4 equally sized portions. Roll each into a ball and press down to form each into a patty. Coat each side of each patty in the remaining bread crumbs.

Lightly coat a pan with non-stick spray. Over medium-high heat, brown one side for 3-4 minutes or until edges start to get brown, flip, and brown other side.

Serve warm.

Yields 2 servings, at 2 patties per serving.

Number of Servings: 2
Nutritional info for 1 serving
Calories 185
Fat 3.5
Carbs 8
Fiber 4  
Protein 27
Weight watcher points 4





Saturday, October 18, 2014

The Broke Girl's Guide To Fall Beauty products {part 3}

Mask "I am someone that uses a deep-conditioning treatment on my ends with every wash. I had heard of this brand, so I decided to pick this up at my drugstore and give it a try. I love it! It smells so yummy, and you can find it almost anywhere.” — Kylee Heath, celebrity hairstylist

Macadamia Natural Oil Deep Repair Masque, $16, available at Ulta.

Thermal Protectant
"I went to a Paul Mitchell hair academy, and this is one product I have never grown out of. It protects the hair really well, but also gives a slight hold, which means you don’t have to layer tons of product on afterwards.” — Kylee Heath
Paul Mitchell Express Style Hot Off The Press, $16.50, available at Loxa Beauty.

 

Styling Cream
“This offers flexible hold, touchable texture, and the perfect amount of shine with a delicious, coconut scent. A blowdry essential.” — Phillip Picardi
O&M Style Guru, $24, available at NET-A-PORTER.
Mousse
"Sometimes, a girl just wants a whole lot of body in her strands, and this is just the mousse for the job. It adds hold (but not too much!) and visibly plumps up your strands to create full, gorgeous volume that just won't quit. I like to apply it to dry hair before I use my curling iron to get big, bouncy curls that I brush out to create fluffy and full waves.” — Megan McIntyre
Toni & Guy Volume Plumping Mousse, $14.99, available at Target.

 

Anti-Frizz Product
"Anti-frizz products and fine hair are two things that usually don't go together: Mostly, because the majority of anti-frizz products contain smoothing agents that weigh down hair, which can make fine hair look limp, greasy, and straggly. That's not the case with this lightweight serum from Davines: It feels weightless, but it also has a mild texturizing effect, so you get a cool, second-day look along with a hint of shine and anti-frizz benefits.” — Megan McIntyre
Davines This Is An Invisible Serum, $22, available at Davines.
Hair Oil
"Suave’s oil is a lot less heavy than other hair oils, so it’s perfect for people who haven’t used one before. I like to work it into damp hair, after I’ve smoothed in a leave-in conditioner, for extra shine and reduced frizz.” — Maria Del Russo
Suave Moroccan Infusion Argan Styling Oil, $7.29, available at CVS.

Dry Shampoo
“This is just the best. It's a loose powder, not a spray, and you only need a pinch to make a mega difference.” — Gabrielle Korn
VERB Dry Shampoo, $14, available at Verb.
 

Beach Spray
"I couldn't have more good things to say about this texturizing spray. Unlike every other one I've tried, this doesn't make hair crunchy, sticky, or the least bit stiff. Instead, it creates truly soft texture and actually hydrates hair in the process. I was skeptical, but after just a few spritzes on my mane, I can't imagine using anything else. Did I mention the clincher? It can also be used as a hydrating body spray, has the most lovely, subtle scent, and costs all of $10. You don't own this already because…?” — Megan McIntyre
Olivine Beach Hair and Body Mist, $10, available at Olivine.

 

Kinky-Curls Styling Product
"I love this leave-in for very curly types, because it’s soft to the touch and doesn't weigh the hair down. The way it separates and defines the curl is actually long-lasting, and allows you to still touch the hair how you normally would without it becoming frizzy. I love it on set, because it can be used on both real and synthetic hair." — Paul Norton
Mixed Chicks Leave - In Conditioner, $19.98, available at Target.
Loose-Curls Styling Product
"This is a super fun curl enhancer that really adds a lot of bounce to the hair. It's really effective if you run it through damp hair, and then take small sections and twist with your fingers for a spiral effect before lightly diffusing with a dryer. It controls frizz so well that you can frequently play with your hair and even separate the curls once it’s dry.” — Paul Norton
Tigi Bed Head Foxy Curls Contour Cream, $19.98, available at Ulta.

 

Hairspray
"In truth, I don’t really see a difference between how this works compared to other hairsprays. But, this stuff smells so good, it’s worth the praise. Plus, it’s a backstage MVP." — Maria Del Russo
L'Oréal Elnett Hairspray, $14.99, available at Ulta.
Paddle Brush
"This is an awesome brush with boar-and-nylon combo bristles. It detangles wet or dry hair with ease, works super fast with a blowdryer, and is totally affordable. It’s great if you can't splurge on a Mason Pearson." — Kylee Heath
Sonia Kashuk Hair Brush, $15.79, available at Target.

 

Detangling Brush
“It’s the classic. But, you already knew that.” — Paul Norton
Tangle Teezer Salon Elite Styler Hairbrush, $16, available at Urban Outfitters.

Round Brush
"This is an awesome brush for a nice, voluminous blowout, because it allows you to keep constant heat on the hair while still protecting it. It has a mix of boar and synthetic bristles, which leaves the hair super shiny and helps to control [it] with less effort than most people are used to. But, as a pro, the weightlessness is my favorite part — it helps my arms when I’m blowing out super thick hair!” — Paul Norton
Bio Ionic Round Brush, $16.10, available at Amazon.

Thursday, October 16, 2014

The Broke Girl's Guide To Fall Beauty products (part 2}

Highlighter
"There's a reason there was a black-market eBay business around this luminizer — it's good. [I'm] so glad Revlon recently brought it back from DQ land, because I was getting desperate enough that I was actually considering dropping $100+ on a bottle." — Megan McIntyre
Revlon PhotoReady Skinlights, $13.99, available at Ulta.

Finishing Powder
“I love this product. It’s a simple powder that’s lightweight and works great to keep you shine-free throughout the day.” — Kirin Bhatty
CoverGirl Queen Collection Lasting Matte Pressed Powder, $8.78, available at Walgreens.
 

Lip Gloss
“I think buying a ton of colors, for diversity, is important with a good gloss! These are tons of fun, and they get the job done. Plus, you can’t beat the price.” — Kirin Bhatty
e.l.f. Cosmetics Essential EX-tra Lip Gloss, $2, available at e.l.f. Cosmetics.

Lipstick
“These are like the unsung heroes of lip colors. They’re vibrant, super creamy, and hydrating all at once. Love!" — Kirin Bhatty
Topshop Lips in Charmed, $12, available at Topshop.

 

Eyeshadow
"Opaque and intense, I use this gel eyeshadow to create both graphic shapes and smoky eyes. Baalbek, Snake Eyes, and Solomon Islands are my favorite shades!” — Robin Black
NARS Eye Paint, $25, available at NARS.
 

Liquid Eyeliner
“If it’s good enough for Alexa Chung, cat-eye queen, it’s good enough for me.” — Megan McIntyre
Eyeko Alexa Chung Lash Enhancing Eye Do Eyeliner, $19, available at Sephora.
Kohl Eyeliner
"The look of a kohl pencil in a long-lasting formula. Plus, it’s full of organic ingredients. Sold.” — Robin Black
Jillian Dempsey Khôl Eyeliner, $20, available at Jillian Dempsey.

Mascara
“It’s the blackest formula on the market. Plus, it somehow manages to deposit just the right amount of product every time.” — Beau Nelson, celebrity makeup artist
L'Oréal Voluminous Mascara, $8.49, available at Drugstore.com.

Brow Gel
"The name of this little genius does not lie — it gives good brow. Thanks to tiny microfibers in the formula, [you] brush it on and it immediately fattens up and fills in your arches.” — Megan McIntyre
Benefit Cosmetics Gimme Brow, $22, available at Sephora.
 

Face Brush
"True story: I had an event to rush to on my first week of working at Refinery, and I had no brushes with me and needed to touch up my concealer in a bad way. When Megan handed me this, I was dubious — I have a collection of NARS, Kevyn Aucoin, and Make Up For Ever brushes at home that are some of my most prized possessions. But, once I started blending my By Terry liquid concealer underneath my eyes and down my T-zone, I was amazed at how effortlessly and evenly this guy worked. Drew Barrymore, you nailed it yet again." — Phillip Picardi
Flower Ultimate Liquid Foundation Makeup Brush, $10.98, available at Wal-Mart.

Eye-Makeup Brushes "Sonia’s a makeup artist who is constantly on the go, so it’s no wonder her makeup brushes are also killing it. There’s nothing I hate more than blending a crease with a sharp-bristled brush: They always make me sneeze! Sonia nailed it with this super convenient, all-you-could-need kit." — Phillip Picardi

Sonia Kashuk Essential Eye Kit, $11.49, available at Target.
 

Makeup Remover
“Cleansing waters are all the rage among the models and the pros backstage, so I was surprised to see that Caudalie delivers a beautifully scented one at the most reasonable price on the market.” — Phillip Picardi
Caudalie Make-Up Remover Cleansing Water, $14, available at Sephora.
Shampoo
"If you’re looking for a great shampoo that will keep your hair soft without all of the bells and whistles, this is your go-to. Even though it’s intensely moisturizing, it will never weigh down your hair, which is something I appreciate.” — Maria Del Russo
Dove Daily Moisture Shampoo, $4.99, available at Target.

 

Conditioner
“I’m less picky about my shampoos than I am about my conditioners. That’s mostly because sometimes, I just hop in the shower, throw in conditioner, and rinse it out, skipping the cleanse part altogether. I love that this product is silicone-, oil-, and sulfate-free, because that means it doesn’t leave a nasty coating of synthetic ingredients on my hair — which would make styling all the more difficult.” — Phillip Picardi
Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Conditioner, $24, available at Sephora.
Cleansing Conditioner
“This is the perfect cleanser for curly hair, because it doesn't suds up, which creates friction and frizz in the hair. Plus, it smells divine, has so many nourishing elements like agave and biotin, and [has] no sulfates. Also, unlike most cleaners, it's a wonderful way to condition the scalp.” — Paul Norton, celebrity hairstylist
Carol's Daughter Hair Milk Nourishing and Conditioning Cleansing Conditioner, $12, available at Target.

Wednesday, October 15, 2014

Blueberry-Bran Pancakes

Blueberry-Bran Pancakes
Weight Watchers Friendly


PointsPlus® value | 6
Servings |  4
Preparation Time |  15 min
Cooking Time |  12 min
Level of Difficulty |  Moderate

 breakfast |  Crushed bran flake cereal boosts the fiber in these hearty pancakes. The pairing of lemon and berries give them a super sweet-tart flavor.




Ingredients
  • 3/4 cup(s) ready to eat bran flakes
  • 2 large egg white(s)
  • 1 1/4 cup(s) low-fat buttermilk
  • 2 tsp canola oil
  • 1 cup(s) all-purpose flour
  • 1 Tbsp sugar
  • 1/2 Tbsp lemon zest, or to taste
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/8 tsp table salt, or to taste
  • 1 cup(s) fresh blueberries
  • 2 spray(s) cooking spray
  • 2 tsp powdered sugar
Instructions
  • Crush cereal in a food processor or blender, or place in a zip-close plastic bag and crush with a rolling pin; pour into a medium bowl.
  • Add egg whites, buttermilk and oil to bowl; stir and allow to stand 5 minutes.
  • Add flour, sugar, lemon zest, baking powder, baking soda and salt to bowl; whisk until well blended. Gently fold in blueberries.
  • Coat a large skillet with cooking spray; heat over medium-high heat.
  • To make pancakes, place 3 tablespoons of batter onto skillet; repeat to make 4 pancakes at a time. Cook pancakes until puffed on top, about 2 minutes; flip and cook until golden brown on other side, about 2 minutes more. Repeat to make 12 pancakes. Serve pancakes in a short stack dusted with powdered sugar. Yields 3 pancakes per serving.
 

Tuesday, October 14, 2014

The Broke Girl's Guide To Fall Products {part 1}

September, with its crisp smell of fall in the air, tends to inspire me to start fresh. As we turn our new leaves — and as the leaves themselves turn — we feel invigorated by the powers of chunky knits, statement-making coats, and badass boots. But, after we’ve invested in all of the clothes, what’s left to spruce up our beauty game?

Here at Beauty Helpings, I often feel the urge to spend beyond my means on amazing investment pieces. So, I understand that you might be a little strapped for cash when it comes to cosmetics. To help you out, Beauty Helpings joined forces with some of our favorite experts to find a killer roster of products — all under $25 each. Some of these, you’ll find, are worth forking over the Andrew Jackson for — while others are killer bargains.
 
 
Cleanser
"This cleanser is a godsend for people with oily skin. I can rely on it to leave my face feeling clean — but not overly tight or dry.” — Taylor Bryant, beauty production assistant
Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser, $10.99, available at Cetaphil.
 
Facial Scrub
"Whenever my skin is looking a little sallow, this is what I reach for. It sloughs off dead skin to reveal a brighter complexion. It’s like my mini-facial in a bottle.” — Maria Del Russo, beauty writer
Boots Botanics All Bright Purifying Face Scrub, $8.49, available at Boots
 
 
 
 
Toner
"This is the toner that changed the way I feel about toner. It's absolutely clutch on oily skin, but it can be a touch drying for normal or sensitive types.” — Megan McIntyre, beauty director

(Editor’s Note: If that’s you, try Mario Badescu Seaweed Cleansing Lotion instead.)
Kate Somerville Clarifying Treatment Toner, $24, available at Sephora.
 
Serum
“This is packed with anti-aging ingredients and glycolic acids to renew skin and improve the complexion’s appearance. Usually, products like this can be upwards of $100, but this drugstore find is a lifesaver for my routine!” — Kirin Bhatty, celebrity and editorial makeup artist
Vichy Normaderm Anti-Aging, $25, available at Ulta.
 
 
Moisturizer
“I’m combination, so I need to change up my moisturizer depending on what the weather’s throwing at me that day. Nine times out of 10, I like to stick to gel moisturizers, because they keep oil at bay throughout the day. Simple’s is a really great option, even without that enticing price point. Any skin type would fall in love with it." — Phillip Picardi, senior beauty editor
Simple Skincare Ultra-Light Gel Moisturizer, $9.98, available at Drugstore.com.
 
 
Moisturizer
"But, if you’re on the dry side, or if you have some anti-aging concerns, then I suggest you grab the French pharmacy favorite Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentrè. It’s a winner in everybody’s book.” — Phillip Picardi
Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentrè, $16, available at Embryolisse.
 
SPF
“Sunscreen is the most important part of your daily beauty routine. So, don’t get confused into thinking that SPF goes away once summer does — that’s not the case! I love this product, because it can easily transform the sunscreen hater into a total convert — it feels just like a nice, lightweight lotion that absorbs quickly without an icky, white cast. Sometimes, I mix it with a bit of liquid luminizer for added radiance.” — Phillip Picardi
Supergoop! Everyday Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50, $19, available at Sephora
 
Night Cream
"A bestseller in Asia, where one is reportedly sold every 15 seconds, this overnight mask lives up to the hype. A thick, gel-like consistency means it glides on easily, but it sinks in overnight to plump up and hydrate your skin. One night of using this and my complexion was dewy and glowy. And, it doesn't aggravate my acne-prone skin like all those other super rich night creams.” — Megan McIntyre
Laneige Water Sleeping Mask, $23, available at Target.
 
Eye Cream
“An eye massager and a cream, this lightweight potion is soothing and cooling on contact, and it helps visibly de-puff eyes and make them look fresher and more awake. It makes me look like I actually got a good night's sleep, when the reality is I stayed up way too late binge-ing on Scandal and yelling at my TV." — Megan McIntyre
Olay Fresh Effects Bright On Schedule Eye Awakening Cream, $13.99, available at CVS
 
Face Mist
"This delicious, rose petal-scented spray is perfect for setting makeup — or to use as a refreshing midday (or post-flight) spritz. I also spray it on my sheets!” — Robin Black, editorial makeup artist
Heritage Store Rose Petals Rosewater, $9.09, available at Heritage Store.
 
Facial Oil
"This product is super rich in all the good things your skin needs, but it's still lightweight and quick to absorb. I love it for dry patches, fading old acne scars, and all-around daily moisture — without the clogged pores." — Katey Denno, celebrity makeup artist
Acure Organics Marula Oil, $15.99, available at Acure Organics.
 
Spot Treatment
"This inexpensive jar of powerful, pore-cleansing, skin-healing clay works wonders when used regularly to clarify and calm. Plus, it's fun to mix the powder and water and watch the paste come to life!" — Katey Denno
Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay Deep Pore Cleansing, $8.11, available at Amazon.
 
Facial Mask
“Hands down, sheet masks are the best. They’re super effective, because they’re saturated in tons of product — which means your pores get all the good stuff — and, they leave you feeling incredible. (Bonus points for being awesome Instagram and Snapchat moments.) The super cheap options on Korean website Soko Glam are great — and affordable enough that you can stock up for the whole season.” — Phillip Picardi
Manefit Bling Bling Hydro Gel Mask, $6, available at Soko Glam.
 
Lip Balm
“It’s all-natural, but moisturizing enough to combat seasonally dry lips.” — Robin Black
Dr. Hauschka Lip Care Stick, $13.95, available at Beauty.com.
 
 
Body Wash
“A foaming body wash that feels rich and creamy on the skin, but doesn’t break the bank? Yup: This foam lathers up good, smells amazing, washes clean, and makes my skin feel so soft. Like, fuzzy, angel-wing soft.” — Megan McIntyre
Rituals T'ai Chi Foaming Shower Gel Sensation, $15, available at Barneys New York
 
Body Scrub
"Handmade, coffee-based, sloughs off dead skin and leaves you smelling like mint, orange, coconut, and coffee — what more could you want? Perfect for getting rid of all the gunk that built up on your skin all summer.” — Gabrielle Korn, beauty editor
Mullein & Sparrow Body Exfoliant, $20, available at Mullein & Sparrow
 
Body Lotion
"I have used this product religiously since I was a pre-teen. Nothing moisturizes my skin and leaves it silky-smooth like this bottle does.” — Maria Del Russo
Vaseline Intensive Care Cocoa Radiant Non-Greasy Lotion with Pure Cocoa Butter, $4.33, available at Drugstore.com
Hand Cream
"This artisanal hand cream is super nourishing and smells like the woods." — Gabrielle Korn
Olivina Hand Creme in Sandalwood Amber, $14, available at Drugstore.com
 
Deodorant
"I am a sweater. And, not a dainty, light-dew-upon-my-lip lady sweater — more of a, 'How the hell do I hide these giant puddles under my arms?' kind of sweater. This is the only deodorant I have ever tried that keeps that ish under control." — Megan McIntyre
Degree Women MotionSense Antiperspirant Deodorant, $4.99, available at Drugstore.com

Aluminum-Free Deodorant
“Much like my boss, I’m also a sweater. And, also much like my boss, I’m definitely not a lady sweater. However, I avoid traditional antiperspirants at all costs: The laundry list of ingredients terrifies me. Malin + Goetz’s stick is, by no means, a budget beauty product. But, it really does last forever: I’ve had mine for three months now, and it has none of the nasties I’m worried about.” — Phillip Picardi
Malin + Goetz Eucalyptus Deodorant, $18, available at Barneys New York.
 
Concealer
“I was genuinely surprised at how luminous these look once they’re applied to the skin. They’re super easy to use, and they come in a wide color range.” — Benjamin Puckey, editorial makeup artist
NYX Hi Definition Photo Concealer Wand, $4.99, available at Ulta.
 
BB/CC Cream
"There are a lot of BB duds in the drugstore — formulas with chalky finishes or formulas that just don't blend — but this one, from Finnish brand Lumene, isn't one of them. It goes on so smooth, is lightweight on the skin, and doesn't leave behind any gray-ish residue. Now, if only it came in more color options…" — Megan McIntyre

(Editor’s Note: If you fall on the medium-to-dark end of the spectrum, try IMAN Skin Tone Evener BB Cream.)
Lumene Bright Now Vitamin C BB Cream SPF 20, $11.61, available at Walgreens.
 
 
Tinted Moisturizer
“This has a very smooth application with moderate coverage, and also a nice range of colors.”— Kirin Bhatty
Sonia Kashuk Radiant Tinted Moisturizer With SPF 15, $13.69, available at Target
 
Foundation
"I hate foundations, especially since they never seem to match my skin tone correctly. But, L’Oréal’s True Match adjusts itself to your unique tone, so you get a perfect match every time. Don’t believe me? Try arguing with math." — Maria Del Russo
L'Oréal True Match Super-Blendable Liquid Makeup, $6.42, available at Walmart
 
 
Cheek Color
"I'm seriously impressed with this two-in-one stick from upstart indie brand Nudestix. I don't usually like lip-blush duos, because I find they're either a great color and formula for the lips or the cheeks — but rarely both. This is the exception to the rule. Its creamy consistency means it blends super easily on the cheeks but won't slide off the lips, and the colors are just spot-on." — Megan McIntyre
NudeStix Lip + Cheek Pencil, $24, available at Sephora.
 
 
Bronzer
"Not only is Iman gorgeous and an icon, but she also knows a thing or two when it comes to cosmetics. I love how warm and sultry these bronzers are, and how they’ll work for any skin tone. Apply with a super soft, fluffy face brush during the cooler months, as your tan starts to fade, for a more subtle glow.” — Kirin Bhatty
Iman Sheer Finish Bronzing Powder, $16, available at Ulta.\
 
Contour
"This is a staple in my kit, because I can use it to hollow out cheekbones on any color face, from Nicole Kidman to Naomi Campbell." — Sir John, celebrity and editorial makeup artist
MAC Powder Blush in Taupe, $22, available at MAC.