You'll be hard-pressed to find a makeup artist who doesn't use a primer before applying eyeshadow. It creates a seamless canvas upon which to apply the rest of your eye makeup and helps keep everything in place throughout the day. Mindy Green, makeup artist and owner of MG Beauty, has applied eyeshadow with this primer for years and claims that each time it lasts at least a full 24 hours. "It contains antioxidants and dries to a matte finish and keeps cream and powder eyeshadow smudge-proof and crease-free," she says. "This product is ideal for anyone with oily eyelids or during the hot, humid summer months."
Unless you're familiar with "drying lotions," you might be wondering what the heck they are—and do for your skin. Well, if you've ever used a spot treatment, drying lotions are one and the same. Hillary Kline loves this product from Mario Badescu, which she says helps dry up pesky pimples in a flash. "I cannot tell you how much I have struggled to find a quality spot treatment (and one that won't break the bank)," she says "After a friend recommended this one, which actually works, I have not looked back!" The key ingredients, salicylic acid and zinc oxide work together to dry and shrink whiteheads virtually overnight, she claims.
Two-time Emmy-nominated celebrity makeup artist Dee Dee Marcelli swears by this primer, the strongest resurfacing product she has ever used. "It magically makes the skin appear more smooth, especially for older women who are hoping to hide signs of aging," she says. "It's a perfect solution for deep wrinkles!" Though it's a bit pricey, the small tube lasts a while, since only a tiny amount of product is required for the entire face. When applying, she just dabs the primer lightly where the skin has lost elasticity to smooth out the surface. "You can use makeup on top of this product or it also works well on a clean face," she adds.
There's a good reason squalane is a hot commodity in the beauty industry. The ingredient is part of the skin's natural moisture and is found in a variety of plants. Vinnetta Scrivo, a celebrity makeup artist who's worked with Martha Stewart, loves this weightless, multi-tasking oil that instantly hydrates while locking in essential moisture. "It leaves skin exceptionally soft and smooth and helps reduce signs of redness and irritation," she says. "I apply daily, adding a few drops on my fingertips and patting it under my eye, forehead, neck and anywhere I feel stress on the face."
Another skin wonder Scrivo swears by is Clarins Beauty Flash Balm, a product she's been using since as far back as she can remember. "My mom, who was a model before she worked in cosmetics, would always bring home the most luxurious creams and potions!" she shares. "I was 12 when I tried this amazing cream and it's served as an unbelievable primer under makeup and day cream ever since." Scrivo claims that it firms and lifts almost instantly and creates the perfect canvas to apply makeup.
