A few years ago, makeup artist Dana Arcidy was searching for a chemical sunscreen to add to her kit. Since chemical sunscreens work by absorbing UV rays instead of reflecting them as others do, they don't cause any flashbacks during flash photography. She was having a hard time finding a stateside option, so she Googled international brands and found this Australian producer. "I tested out this moisturizer on one of my models and loved it so much that I had to get an extra one for myself," she says. "The lightweight, fast-absorbing formula is so much better than the greasy sunscreens I wore before, which always seemed to leave a white cast."
Pro Tip: Don't forget to reapply. "Like with any sunscreen, for best results, this should be applied 20 minutes before getting any sun," Arcidy adds.
Blame it on your newborn, a demanding month at the office or your newfound addiction to a Netflix newbie, but dark circles have a way of sneaking up on you. Finding the right type of product to actually conceal these pigments is tough, but thanks to the recommendation of her Swedish pal, makeup artist for Pierre Michel Salon Katherine Dorn discovered this saving grace. "It covers up any dark circles — hello long nights and no sleep — and brightens up any under eye," she raves.
Pro Tip: Put your fingers into it — literally. "Use with fingers as the heat from the hands helps it blend into the skin, also make sure to tap in into the skin for natural results," she says.
When you're applying your makeup of the day, what part do you give the most attention to? For most people, the eyes are a multi-step process and often the first part of the face that's noticed by others. That's why licensed esthetician and professional makeup artist Corey Michol Sam is thankful for her go-to mascara. "There is nothing more respectful than eye contact! I love this product because of its lengthening and separating feature. This mascara allows eyes to pop all day, with a long lasting formula, and zero clumping," she says.
If you haven't started using a face oil as part of your routine, perhaps now is the time to start. According to makeup artist Min Min Ma, this formula is a must-use for anyone. She should know since once a friend introduced her to the brand, she was instantly hooked. "It's a staple product in my kit and I use it in many different ways. It can prep skin beautifully, or can be mixed with concealer or foundation for a sheerer coverage," she says. "I also use it as a highlighter! Instead of a traditional highlighter with shimmery or glittery texture, this oil gives a subtle glowy, sheen look."
Pro Tip: Prep your skin. "You can also use it on your body — your legs, collarbone and shoulders — as it photographs nicely and goes on smoothly."
If you have an uneven skin texture or ever-annoying acne scars to cover up, makeup artist Sophia Porter suggests this foundation as your one-stop solution for all skin woes. "It comes in a huge shade range that accommodates everyone and it makes the complexion look like flawless silk," she says. It might be a tad pricier, but for an Instagram-ready face, it's worth the investment.
Pro Tip: Start small. "Work in thin layers and build coverage as needed, I love to use this under the eyes before opting to use concealer," she says.
