What products are in your makeup bag?

It does actually look like a lot when you break it down, but generally I try to keep things quick and easy when it comes to my own face… In my bag you’ll find things like foundation, concealer, loose powder, a couple of eye shadows, liquid liner, mascara and one or two lip balms.

Why do you use those particular products and do you have a particular philosophy or routine?

The products I use are really a collection of “old reliables”, they reflect my favourite brands and what I know works regardless of whether there is 5 minutes to get ready or an hour.  I always start with my base products, then do eyes, cheeks and finish with lips. As far as a philosophy goes, I’ve found, as I got older my tendency is to just simply keep things clean, fresh and simple.

How often do you change what’s in your makeup bag?

Usually I’ll change foundation depending on the season, so when it’s warmer I’d use a higher SPF in an effort stave off wrinkles (for the time being!). Lip glosses come and go and I’ll switch up eye shadows sometimes depending on my outfit but most of the time I change when something runs out or needs replacing.

Is there a product you can’t live without and regularly re-buy?

Lancome Hypnose mascara, YSL Touche Eclat and Shiseido liquid liner are always in my make-up bag because they do exactly what they say on the tin! If I had to choose one, I’d say the mascara because I’ve tried others and they just don’t give the same finish at all.

What is the story behind the bag you use? Where did you get it and why do you like it?

I use the crystal pouch from Makeup Forever, it’s really easy to keep clean, is sturdy and can hold a lot too, but the main reason is because you can see exactly what’s in there so there’s no need to go fishing about. I use the same kind in my make-up kit for work, but I was given this particular one by Makeup Forever because I was doing a feature on TV, which was nice of them!

Sarah has been a make-up artist and hair stylist for 10 years and has worked with clients like Image Magazine, Coca Cola, Lynx and Sony Music. She lives in Dublin but grew up in Saudi Arabia and has a weakness for coffee and bourbon biscuits. She writes a fantastic blog called Pretty Easy, which is all about making pretty… easy!