It’s not fair that celebs are the only ones who get to see what top makeup artists use as their beauty “must haves,” so I asked three top Hollywood makeup artists to spill the beans on their favorite products and secrets they can share with real people. Here’s what they had to say:
Joanne McCarthy (my sister): Make up artist for Dancing with The Stars
Twitter: @makeupjojo
Facebook: Jojo McCarthy
JENNY: Alright Jojo, spill it.
JOJO: The one question I get the most is: How do I cover my dark under-eye circles? What concealer is the best? I swear by this concealer called Amazing Concealer by Amazing Cosmetics. There are 10 colors — a shade for everyone!!
JENNY: How do we know which color to buy?
JOJO: Choose a color that is one shade lighter than your foundation.
JENNY: How do I apply the concealer?
JOJO: Squirt a few drops of concealer on the back of your hand to warm it up then apply with either your ring finger or a synthetic makeup brush starting at the inner corner of your eye, and follow it on top of any discoloration.
JENNY: Tell us your secret tip!
JOJO: If you do not have dark circles and you want to use this concealer as a highlight, mix a little concealer with your foundation (either cream or liquid foundation); it will add just the right amount of glow and light to your face!
JENNY: I would have to agree that highlighting under your eyes not only makes you look younger but also adds dimension to your face. It helps my cheeks pop out more.
JOJO: Bingo!
Debra Macki, celebrity makeup artist
Facebook: Debra Macki
Twitter: @debramacki
There are amazing prep products available that help make women look better when used in conjunction with great makeup application. These steps are secrets top makeup artists use and just as important as the makeup itself. Below are my top three:
Eye Dews
One of the biggest problems I have to combat as a makeup artist is the under-eye area. From dark circles to dehydration to puffiness to wrinkles, women of all ages complain about this area the most. I found a product called Eye Dews that I am obsessed with that eliminates puffiness and rejuvenates the under eye area quickly, so it’s perfect for me to use at photo shoots and on set. Puffiness can’t be hidden with makeup so this product is a lifesaver! I recommend it to my clients for home use and they can’t stop thanking me.
The Clarisonic
If your skin is properly exfoliated, your foundation will sit more smoothly and not look cake-y. Most women don’t realize how important this step is to having their makeup look younger and fresher. The very best product available that exfoliates without irritating your skin is the Clarisonic. It’s amazing!
Urban Decay Primers
Using a primer under your foundation will make you look younger and your foundation will last longer. Urban Decay has an array of primers from pore minimizing to oil-control that will give your makeup a more polished, long-lasting look. My favorites!
Julie Ribordy, commercial and print makeup artist
Twitter: @makeupbyJulie
Facebook: MakeupbyJulie
JENNY: Alright Julie, spill the beans!
JULIE: When choosing mascara, look at the wand. If it’s big and bushy, that’s how your lashes will end up. If it’s long and spiky, you’ll lengthen and separate. An arched wand will lift and curl the lashes better than a straight brush. To get the look you want, you have to choose the right applicator.
JENNY: What is your favorite “must have” product?
JULIE: Stila #33 One-Step Complexion Brush, a dual-ended foundation and concealer brush that allows for blending liquid and powder products. The small tapered end is perfect for getting in those hard-to-reach areas and can also be used to blend shadow. It’s designed with endless applications in mind and is my “can’t-live-without” brush!
