But it all starts with body language: so, try not to lean back as you do your makeup, sit up relatively straight and alert. And, now, how to begin? When you don't have much time and need to do your makeup in a car, you want to go for a multitasking product: one that does the job of at least 3, especially when it comes to complexion products. Packaging is a big factor, too: it needs to be practical, allowing for application using only one hand, as your other will be holding the mirror. May I suggest PUR 4-in-1 Pressed Mineral Makeup Broad Spectrum SPF 15, $29.50? It comes with its own mirror, so you'll probably be using it to apply the rest of the products, but that's not the only reason why you'll love it — this mineral powder combines multiple skincare ingredients and functions as a foundation, concealer, finishing powder, and SPF 15 protection, all in one. It not only provides buildable and uniform coverage but also conditions, soothes, and leaves a radiant finish.
If you have a very dark undereye area and need extra coverage, applying a brightening cream concealer should be the first step in your car ride makeup routine. L.A. Girl HD Pro Conceal, $5.49, comes in 30 shade options, it camouflages redness, hyperpigmentation, and imperfections, is long-lasting, and feels like nothing. The built-in brush will allow you to place an even amount of product where you want it, but you will still have to lightly tap it into the skin with the tip of your finger — as is the best practice when using a cream concealer. What works in favor of this particular concealer, though, is that it's not either runny or thick enough to be a hassle to spread onto the skin, and another important fact is that very little product will remain on your finger due to transference — which makes cleanup practically a non-issue, which is especially handy, you'll agree, when we're not around facilities with running water.
When it comes to mascara, this is what you do: you wait for the red lights and zebra crossings when the car is not in motion, and grab your Maybelline New York The Falsies Lash Lift Washable Mascara Eye Makeup in Blackest Black, $11.99. You need to account for the possibility that you may arrive at your destination even quicker than you thought. When doing your makeup in the backseat of an Uber ride, you want maximum impact within the smallest of timeframes, and you need to have a balanced result i.e. both eyes evenly done at the same moment. You also want to avoid accidentally stabbing yourself in the eye with the mascara brush should there be sudden changes in the smoothness of your ride. The way to achieve this is to work in increments: you don't wait to finish one eye completely before you get on the other one, but rather you repeat the motion immediately as it happens. Start in the middle, as that will create the most impact and take on the majority of the lashes at once. Resist the urge to finish, and repeat the motion on the other eye. Dig into the bottom of the lashes, with a bit of force move the brush left to right and upward in a few swift moves. Repeat on the other side. When the moment permits or you anticipate enough stability to feel secure, go into the outer and inner corners to cover all the lashes. Repeat on the other side. You may even want to go in for a second coat now that you're a pro at this!
Don't do neon colors (especially if you're a beginner at this) or any shades that require spotless precision in application. Instead, opt for earth or muted colors, with or without shimmer. Obviously, the most practical of all variations for eyeshadow is the eyeshadow stick. You'll love the It Cosmetics Superhero No-Tug Waterproof Eyeshadow Stick, $25, for its easy-glide, blendable formula which is also very forgiving when you need to edit your placement. The shade range is spot-on for us for this, and the Gallant Gold here will look chic across all skin tones, especially against the black of the mascara.
Avoid liquid or other formulas that may require you to get your hands dirty. In these situations, your best blush will be the pressed, compact blush which comes with a mini brush. Physicians Formula Powder Palette Multi-Colored Blush in Blushing Berry, $15.06, has a soft formula with a slight shimmer finish, providing you with a bit of a highlighter kick. The color carousel makes it easy for you to create a custom look and adjust the color intensity based on your mood or outfit on a particular day.
