10 Makeup Products a Professional Makeup Artist Can't Live Without
As a professional hair and makeup artist based in Sydney, I get asked constantly what's actually in your kit? Not what's trending. Not what's sponsored. What do you genuinely reach for?
In Episode 2 of The Insider Edit, I shared my current top 10: five products from my professional kit, and five I use on myself every single day. Here they are.
Kit Picks: What's in My Professional Kit Right Now
These are products that earn their spot by working on real clients of different ages, different skin tones, different concerns.
1. TOWER 28 Concealer
My previous go-to was the Bare Minerals serum concealer but when it was discontinued, I tested five different options before landing on this one. The TOWER 28 has a serum-like consistency that doesn't grab, doesn't go uncomfortably matte, and sits beautifully under the eyes on every age. I wouldn't use it for spot coverage (that's the NARS Creamy Matte), but for under-eyes it's unmatched. Pro tip: I write a number on the lid of each shade so I can quickly identify colours in my kit.
2. Lisa Eldridge Lipstick #191 Dreamy Damask + Lip Liner 0N
I have genuinely never put this on a client who didn't want to know what it is. It's the most perfect pink — not too bright, not too nude. Pair it with the Lisa Eldridge lip liner in 0N (a true neutral with just enough warmth) and it's the ultimate wearable pink lip. It comes in refills too, which is great for keeping costs down. Lisa Eldridge also offers a 25% professional discount and approves applications quickly — worth doing if you're a makeup artist.
3. Hourglass Bronzer in Nude Light
This was recommended to me by my assistant Annika and it's now a kit staple. Nude Light is matte, not too warm, not sparkly — a truly neutral bronzer that works across a wide range of skin tones. I use it on the face and the eye. It's the kind of product that doesn't try to do too much, which is exactly why it works. Note: Hourglass has moved from Mecca to Sephora in Australia, and Pro Artist discounts are available.
4. MyKit Co Brow Brush
Every time I use this on a client or model, they ask what it is. The brow brush end is exceptional — great for brushing through over-applied product and keeping brows looking natural. I own two and I have zero regrets about that.
5. MAC Groundwork Eye Base
Not new, not flashy, but I've used it for years and it earns its place on almost every client. A taupey-neutral base that maps out eye looks beautifully — especially for commercial work. An oldie but a forever faithful.
Personal Picks: What I Actually Use on Myself
1. Naked Sundays Clear Glow Sunstick SPF50+
I used to avoid sunscreen entirely because it always found its way into my eyes. Since moving to Sydney, that wasn't sustainable. This sunstick changed everything — swipe it on, don't rub it in, and makeup sits beautifully over the top. Easy, fuss-free sun protection for people who hate sunscreen. There's also a matte version available.
2. KOSAS Correcting Concealer in Illusion
A peachy-toned corrector that genuinely doesn't gather around the eyes or emphasise texture. I was recommended this by a Mecca staff member (pro tip: always ask floor staff what they're excited about — they know their stuff). I wear it alone most days, no concealer over the top, no setting. The shade Illusion is what I use.
3. Half Magic Tubing Mascara
If you can wear regular mascara, tubing won't give you the same drama. But if you're a panda-eye person like me, tubing is non-negotiable. I've tried a lot of them — this is my current favourite. Great wand, great separation, and it hasn't transferred on me yet. I compared it directly against the Tarte tubing mascara and this one wins for me on lash finish.
4. Lisa Eldridge Skin Tint in T9
Built-in SPF, a truly beautiful natural finish, and it doesn't emphasise skin texture. I matched my shade online — T9 is quite olive. If I weren't already running Mac Face and Body in my kit, this would probably replace it. It just sits on the skin so beautifully.
5. The Lip Combo: Revlon Colorstay + Bit by Glossier + Copini Lip Liner
Nothing stays on my lips, until this combination. I start with lip liner Bit by Glossier, then apply the Revlon Colorstay in Endless Spice (the 16-hour formula genuinely lasts), then finish with the Copini liner in Bitter Chocolate.
Bonus: Hourglass Fox Palette (Limited Edition)
This was recommended to me by my assistant Annika and it's now a kit staple. Nude Light is matte, not too warm, not sparkly — a truly neutral bronzer that works across a wide range of skin tones. I use it on the face and the eye. It's the kind of product that doesn't try to do too much, which is exactly why it works. Note: Hourglass has moved from Mecca to Sephora in Australia, and Pro Artist discounts are available.
Beyond the Products
This episode also touched on something a little different: how I approach PR gifting as a makeup artist, and how I've gotten more comfortable putting myself out there and asking for what I want. The short version: I ask for it. Mostly. And a 'no' from a PR company — or anyone — just means 'not yet'. Pop me a DM on Instagram if you want to chat about this more.
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Full episode #106 The Insider Edit: Kit Faves & Why You Need to Back Yourself