Must Haves for Your Makeup Bag

Every woman I know, myself included, has a makeup bag full of items that seemed like a good investment at the time. Some of the choices didn't fit our skin tone, and many others were impulse buy items. Each month it seems like the women's interest magazines are touting the newest miracle cure, and the best new color combinations. We all find ourselves getting pulled into the world of makeup, spending more money than we planned, and filling out bags with things we'll never use. The simple truth of the matter is that most women can survive with only a few essentials.

1. A good, high quality foundation. There is no reason to spend $40-100+ on a single bottle of foundation, not if you can find one that you like. Drugs stores offer several brands with "color matching technology" that seamlessly blend into your skin. It might be a little hard at first to find one that matches your skin tone, but it is possible. L'Oreal makes a nice version that doesn't feel too heavy or cakey. I also recommend the Wet 'n' Wild brand of foundation for a lighter coverage that is great during the winter months. At less than $5 a bottle, its well worth the price just to try it out.

2. A red lipstick. There is a red perfect for every skin tone, but most women choose the wrong color and it ends up in the bottom of their makeup. The key is to find a color that works for you. Too orange and it will bring out the yellow in your skin, too dark and it will make your skin look too pale. I have dark hair, with light skin, and I prefer a red that is almost berry colored.

3. A neutral lipstick suitable for the daytime and work. This should come close to matching the regular color of your lips, possibly a shade darker. Far too many woman wear an extremely dark, or bright lipstick during the day, which can look tarty. Stick with a color that is appropriate for the daytime.