After 10+ years of “putting on your face” each and every morning (well…not every morning), it’s not a surprise that you’ve developed beauty product brand loyalty, which could easily last another decade or two. (Don’t even remind us of the heartbreak we felt when former faves were discontinued. Sadness.) And while it’s fun to try a new product every so often, you run the risk of wasting $15 on an eyeliner that promised to stay put for 24 hours, yet 24 minutes later, it’s already disappeared. Without wasting one (or 20) of your hard-earned dollars, we’ve got the editor-tested-and-approved shopping list you’ll need for your next Target and Ulta runs, courtesy of Sarah Smith, associate beauty editor at Martha Stewart Weddings . Lip Balm: Burt’s Bees Tinted Lip Balm in Pink Blossom, $6.99.
Sarah says: “This balm feels amazing on, and it’s the perfect pink color to match your lips. It’s great for every day wear.”
Mascara: Cover Girl Lash Blast Mascara, $6.23.
Sarah says: “This mascara gives my eyelashes tons of volume and drama. It’s like I’m wearing falsies, but without the hassle. Plus, it easily washes off.”
Eye Liner: Maybelline Eye Studio Master Drama Eye Pencil, $7.99.
Sarah says: “It has a really creamy consistency that sweeps on smooth, and it’s deep rich color has the intensity of a liquid liner. It stays put forever, so if I’m doing a winged eye, I know it’s there for the long-haul.”
Foundation: Becca Tinted Moisturizer (now at Duane Reade stores), $35.
Sarah says: “I wear this every single day! It gives me SPF coverage, a dewy glow, and sheer coverage that looks completely natural. It’s super easy to apply, too — I just smooth it on with my fingers.”
Blush: Jemma Kidd Cheek ID Colour Adapt Blush, $18.
Sarah says: “This stain’s glossy finish gives cheeks a touch of shine and moisture as well as a subtle pink flush.”
