Ahh, makeup. Magical, wonderful makeup. I’ve always been so amazed at how it can help keep our dark circles away, and help boost our self-confidence. Makeup adds so much color and life to our everyday appearance, plus, it’s just so much fun! And with the many brands and products to choose from, the makeup world is an endless array of options that we’ll never get tired of. So where do you start? I asked some moms for their absolute makeup must-haves, whether for a no makeup look or a full face, so check them out and see if some of these items match your own products too!
For a natural look, I use the K-Palette Real Lasting Eyebrow pen. I like that you can’t overdraw with this pen. My eyebrows always look natural. Plus, it really lasts the whole day! I also prefer nude lipsticks because I don’t have to worry about whether it will be bagay with my outfit. My favorites are Touch of Nude and Clay Crush by Maybelline, Smoked Almond by MAC, and the L’Oreal Infallible Pro-matte Lip Gloss in Bare Attraction. For blush, I like the Milani Baked Power Blush in Luminoso–it’s very natural with the right amount of glow. I’m also currently using Fit Me! by Maybelline as my pressed powder, and for mascara, I like the Voluminous Lush Paradise by L’Oreal. I like the applicator, and the formulation of the mascara itself is not prone to clumping.
– Dottie Dumlao-Lopez (Doctor, mom of 2 kids, ages 4 and 2)
My makeup must-have is definitely my MAC concealer! Gotta cover up any trails of those sleepless nights, waking up at least twice to feed my little one, or just bad dreams. It’s my saving grace, and helps me look awake and fresh all day!
– Eriane Leobrera (IT Manager, mom of a 2 year old)
My ultimate must-haves are the Stila One Step Correct primer–it corrects all the redness from my rosacea and the dark circles under my eyes–it also helps make the concealing easier. I also cannot go out without my eyebrows (because #kilayislife). Out of all that I’ve tried, my favorite is Anastasia Beverly Hills. I combine the Dipbrow Pomade and the Brow Wiz. My eyeliner must be waterproof! I use the Makeup Forever Aqua XL in brown. For normal days, concealer and powder foundations are a must. I use the MAC Studio Finish concealer and the MAC Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation. When I do full coverage makeup, I swear by Dior Forever–it minimizes pores, is light on the skin, and feels like you’re not wearing makeup! I also cannot live without contour (or my round face will look like a siopao)! The Lorac Pro Contour Palette is my go to. I always finish off with a setting spray so that my makeup stays in place, for that I use Urban Decay’s All Nighter.
– Cristina Henson Ngkaion (Makeup Artist, mom of a 1 year old)
As a busy mom, I don’t have time for step by step products. Pond’s BB Cream moisturizes, protects, and corrects all in one bottle! Perfect for moms on the go! I also can’t live without ChapStick lip balm (cherry flavor)! It is a quick and easy fix to my dry lips. It’s handy and travel-friendly, I bring it everywhere, and it has a very light pinkish tint that gives a subtle glow to my face.
– Kit Gloria Ley (Financial Advisor, mom of 2 kids, ages 4 and 1)
Makeup might be a woman’s best friend, but to busy moms like me, it’s not easy to squeeze these things in, especially at the start of a demanding day. But thankfully, I found the right products that help me do my morning routines quickly. I use Clinique foundation for my face, and I apply Nature Republic eyebrow to groom my brows. Then I use Bobbi Brown’s Pot Rouge Raspberry on my cheeks and lips to brighten my pale tone, and lastly, I curl my lashes with a Kose eyelash curler to open up my eyes. Usually, I re-touch my makeup during the middle of the day to ensure that I still look fresh throughout the day. My makeup doesn’t always need to be expensive, I always try to find the right items that complement my skin, without breaking my wallet.
– Maan Laureano (Business Analyst, mom of 2 kids, ages 10 and 7)