8-HOUR PRODUCTS : MAKEUP
Midday makeup migration is far from ideal, and even less so when your plans involve such significant events as post-work drinks, a lengthy flight/train journey, a wedding or a party. Sometimes all you require is makeup that is on lockdown, so you can get on with your meetings/date/world takeover without having to give a thought to fading eyeshadow, a shiny forehead, and the dreaded lip liner effect on your once perfect pout.
Products with staying power are paramount to constructing a flawless stay-put look, so here are nine guaranteed to beat the eight hour day [at least].
& OTHER STORIES Demi Matte Lipstick*
Sometimes the simplest look to pull off when you have a long day ahead is a bold flash of colour. This is one of my favourite matte lipstick formulas because it doesn't dry your lips out and actually feels really hydrating. The & Other Stories formula also contains the most beautiful pigments, giving a luxurious satin finish and staying put amazingly. Its ability to not budge is impressive, apply two coats [for extra insurance] and expect it to last intact through food, drink, and lip-locking.
URBAN DECAY Afterglow 8-Hour Powder Blush*
Though not currently as en vogue, a powder blush will typically last much longer than its slip-prone cream counterparts, for what it might lack in finish, it makes up for in durability. Urban Decay are pioneers of long-wearing makeup, and as the name suggests, this blush is the way forward when longevity is your main requirement. The finely milled formula applies sheer and is easily bendable; flattering pearl particles and a dusky pink pigment result in an ethereal finish.
CLARINS Fix Makeup*
Like a primer, but for post-application, a single product that provides the ultimate finishing touch to previously applied makeup is noteworthy indeed. This nifty spritz works much like a hairspray, anchoring makeup in place with a fresh, dewy glow. It has a delicate rose scent and boasts plentiful moisturising benefits, so presents a win win situation from every angle.
CLARINS Everlasting Foundation*
As you can tell by the name, this one really means it on the long-lasting front. The concentrated silicone formula [always look for silicones when longevity is required] creates an unwavering silken finish, which lasts more than the 18 hours promised. It has a near opaque coverage, which even with reduced concentration is difficult to blend to something more sheer. The [numerous] shades are all very natural looking however, so there's no need to fear looking overdone, and those who do desire coverage will be more than impressed [I'd put it on par with Estée Lauder Doublewear. The finish itself verges upon matte but without looking powdery, and the SPF15 is a welcome protective plus.
MAC Pro Longwear Brow Set
Like a superglue for eyebrows [with the added bonus of an impressive tint], whether full or sparse, brows will remain neatly tamed and shaped with this formula. The precision brush makes it easy to apply, and the colour blends well, without looking like it's simply sitting on top. If you're tired of getting to the midday bathroom break and realising that your regular brow powder has completely disappeared [or worse, migrated], then this tinted gel is the way to go.
BENEFIT Roller Lash
For a noticeably curled lash that lasts, put your faith in Benefit's latest mascara launch. The specially designed brush fits the curvature of the lash line flawlessly, capturing every single lash in one fell swoop. It's also precise enough to use upon the lower lashes and to define those in the outer corner, resulting in a glorious doe-eyed effect, which massively opens the eyes. As with most Benefit mascaras, you'll need a seriously good makeup remover to ensure that this dissolves, and when it comes to it you'll be loathe to, whilst marvelling how well the curl has lasted.
KIKO Longlasting Eyeshadow Stick
And now for something a little more economical [yet just as invincible]. Not only does the eyeshadow stick allow you to create multiple looks, but you can easily dial up or dial down the intensity of the colour by opting to either slick it all over or define the lash line and blend upwards. KIKO's option is by far the most long-lasting formula I've used; it also feels weightless and applies beautifully, with no pull, and minimal blending required. One single quick swipe and bright sparkly eyes will survive even the most sultry summer evenings.
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Naturally, a good primer is your makeup's life insurance policy. I use and love too many to list in this edit but recently rounded up the best of the best here [Prep & Prime] and here [Saving Face], and would also highly commend Benefit's Stay Don't Stray for your lids.
ILLAMASQUA Precision Ink
When it comes to eyeliner, liquid notoriously holds its own better than pencil, and this one provides all the drama you could possibly desire. I've subjected it to a day of dawn to dusk travelling, a raucous night out in the city, and the tear-fest that is Far From The Madding Crowd, yet it stood its ground throughout. Expect a smooth, fluid texture and near enough permanent pay off [it takes a good micellar water and a bit of elbow grease to remove], without any unwanted migration or flaking into your contact lenses [unfortunately usually a given]. Once it's set, it won't budge, and stays strong no matter what you/the weather/your activities throw at it.
NARS All Day Luminous Weightless Foundation*
Nars' base makeup reputation is revered [much like its resilience] and this, its most recent addition, looks set to join its predecessors in the brand's hall of fame - providing a soft and sheer glow, almost like a tinted moisturiser, but with coverage. It is that remarkable wonder, a gentle giant of foundation, and without a doubt the lightest base I have ever worn [you could easily forget you were wearing it]. Boasting a thin, watery texture that is surprisingly highly pigmented, a little goes a long long way in providing the perfect amount of coverage, but blends so beautifully that skin looks completely bare. Notably, it promises [and delivers] 16-hour wear, truly dawn to dusk makeup.
What are your recommendations for long-lasting makeup?
