Riot and Frolic

I do not qualify in any way as a beauty expert, except that my sister-in-law stated that "I've never seen anyone in the real world, outside ballroom dancing, do contouring well."

So there's my qualification.  Not a great resume, but let's run with it.

I have four products that make my life infinitely easier and help me look like I care about my looks on the daily, but here's a secret:

Deborah Lippman Gel Lab Pro

Problems:

I never think I have time to let my nails dry after I paint them.

I can't stand it when nail polish chips, but I wash dishes, and build shit, and paint, and lift things, and type, and use my hands A LOT.

I like super bright colors… that show chips.

Solution:

This crazy base and top coat.  I bought it after buying a couple of Deborah Lippman's nail colors, which are always amazing (I also love Ciaté London colors and lasting power), and this stuff did not disappoint.  After using it, I went to get a "real" maincure for an event, the nail tech asked me if I had gels on, because it was NOT coming off with regular remover.  

I can wash a week's worth of dishes (think of how much I cook and how many people I feed) before there's even wear on the edges.  It is amazing.  Highly recommend.

Lipsense

Problem:

I talk. A lot.  Especially when I'm teaching, but also, just… always.

Lipstick will not stay on through my jabbering and it's my go-to "hey, look at how good I look" makeup move.  

"Long-lasting" lipsticks have generally felt kind of gross and dry. 

Reapplying lipstick between rounds of dancing was annoying, so much more so than that extra layer of hairspray.

Solution:

Lipsense.  Yes, that whole MLM product that someone has tried to get you to buy in a Facebook party.  Well, I love it.  I got one, tried it, and now I have 12 more.

It stays on through teeth brushing, my talking, eating almost everything (greasy burgers are the exception), sleeping (WHAT? SOMETIMES I DON'T TAKE OFF MY MAKEUP AT NIGHT), dancing, workouts, lots of sweating (aka comps and shows), and swimming (because sometimes you get fancy and then hang at the pool).  The colors are bright (well, the ones I get) and awesome.  It doesn't feel like hell 12 hours after I put it on.

I'm sure it doesn't work for everyone, but good God, I love it.

I DO NOT SELL IT.  I'm sure you know someone who does.  Ask me if you want a hook-up, though, because my girl is great.

Stila Stay All Day Liquid Eyeliner

Problem:

I have hooded eyelids.

I have slightly oily skin.

I sweat when I do active things (which is often).

I like eyeliner.

Solution:

This eyeliner.  I have tried MANY other products (including cult fav Kat Von D and the kind from the aforementioned makers of Lipsense, among others) and this one stays ALL DAY, as advertised.  I don't need to use an eyeshadow base with it, which is nice, because while I like to look put together:

Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz

Problem:

Eyebrows are annoying.  

Solution:

This pencil.  It stays on through all those previously mentioned activities, and is pretty foolproof to apply.

What are your go-to "I look put-together" products?  

This is for Tracy.  ^^^ 🙂