Building Your Kit Part 18: Editorial Makeup Must-Haves

For many professional artists, editorial makeup (specific looks for magazines, runway shows, and ads) is our bread and butter. And building the best kit around that is, well, all about editing. To be successful at it, you have to understand not only the design of your products, but how to apply and maintain them. You need to get your materials down to exactly what you need for the job at hand. And once you do, you’ll be ready to succeed on set at a photo shoot, in a fashion tent, or even just doing your own makeup for a standout everyday look.

Over the years, I’ve discovered a few key products that are indispensable for prepping, application, and touch-ups, no matter the gig. Here are a few of my must-haves for creating the ideal editorial makeup kit.

BeautySoClean: This line keeps your makeup looking perfect—and germ-free. It’s important to not only clean your brushes but also your products, especially when working on multiple clients. I love BeautySoClean’s sanitizing mists, wipes, and brush cleaners on set to provide defense against infections. Having a variety of these items in your kit helps ensure that you, your products, and clients all remain healthy. [shop BeautySoClean]

Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré and Embryolisse Émulsion Hydra-Mat: Embryolisse’s skin care essentials are great for any client or occasion. These two products in particular really make a difference in creating the perfect look. Lait-Crème Concentré is probably in every artist’s kit because it’s the best everyday moisturizer; Émulsion Hydra-Mat gives even the oiliest skin a flawless finish without excess shine. [shop Embryolisse]

Ardency Inn Boom Base: This lip balm protects and primes and provides all day moisture. Plus, it has a cool minty kick! The weightless formula goes on smooth, while the peppermint acts as an antibacterial agent against germs. The slight green color is also great to help neutralize a natural lip—an ideal product for someone with dark skin that might have a lip shade that differs from the standard “neutral.”

Kevyn Aucoin The Sensual Skin Enhancer: I prefer cream-based foundations for their versatility and ability to cover and conceal. With The Sensual Skin Enhancer you can achieve anything from full coverage to a sheer finish, and most importantly, it leaves skin looking natural. Plus, there are 16 shades to choose from—you’ll be able to find something for everyone. [shop Kevyn Aucoin]

Anastasia Go Brow Universal Brow Pencil: I love how this pen adds definition and dimension to any eyebrow, no matter the person’s skin tone or hair color (one end is a universal brown brow pencil; the other, a highlighter). The end result always looks editorial-ready and fashion-forward and stays put all day. [shop Anastasia Go Brow]

Make Up For Ever 12 Flash Color Case: You’ll find this in the kits of many well-known artists because it allows for endless possibilities in creating a beautiful eye, lip, or cheek color. You can even use the creamy formulas to color-correct and adjust any complexion or foundation. Once you use it, you’ll realize why it’s much-loved far and wide.

NARS The Multiple: Editorial makeup means being able to come up with whatever look is necessary at a moment’s notice. Francois Nars is the king of editorial and his one must have: The Multiple. It’s a classic cream product that lets you sculpt and shape the face and add dimension. [16 shades available]

Read the rest of James Vincent’s Building Your Kit series here!

As Director of Artistry for The Makeup Show, The Powder Group and On Makeup Magazine, makeup artist James Vincent has touched every facet of the industry with his talent. With specialties in film and theatre, television and celebrity work, editorial and runway work, James is foremast a passionate educator, training for brands such as MAC, Stila, CNN and Lancome. He continues to inspire the next wave of artists with his beauty expertise. Follow James on Twitter @JVincentmakeup.