Chances are your makeup bag hasn’t been cleaned out for a while and can use some updating. No, you don’t need 8 lipsticks in there! By having items you actually need and will use, you can touch up instead of staring at an infinite amount of product and not knowing what to do with it. 

Think of carry-on makeup bag as the mini version of your entire makeup collection. The easiest way to do this is to go by category.

Face- If you are on the oily side, blotting papers are a must. Go chic with PAPIER MATIFIANT DE CHANEL during this not so chic ritual of getting rid of excess oil. Most of us can get away with a compact powder, so opt for one with a hidden spot for a sponge to save space and also to keep you from wiping a dirty sponge that’s been swimming around your makeup bag on your face. Tip: Use plastic bags to keep it clean, they may not be glamorous, but breakouts aren’t either!

Blush- Whether two kisses on the cheek or three is the proper way to greet each other in your region, this usually makes your blush disappear, making touch-ups an absolute must. I’m obsessed with NARS blushes and love that they are so compact. Retractable brushes like the SEPHORA COLLECTION Color At Every Turn Retractable, are perfect since they hide and stay clean until they come out for a retouching.

Eyes- That inner eye liner seems to disappear every time. Black pencil liner is a must have, but try to use an older short one so it doesn’t take up too much space.

Lips-Whatever shade you are wearing take it with you to reapply, but also keep a neutral favorite handy. Perhaps something creamy since lips tend to get dry throughout the day. Speaking of dryness, make sure to always have a lip balm too.

Miscellaneous items-Hair ties, bobby pins, hand lotion, breath mints. This category is more of a personal preference, and you never know when you might need them. We all have that one friend that carries a pharmacy in her purse and we love her!

 

Aline Agopian