Inside a Makeup Artist’s Kit: My Go-To Products I Can’t Live Without
As a professional makeup artist and educator, my kit is more than just a collection of products — it's my creative toolbox, my secret weapon, and an extension of my artistry. Whether I’m preparing a bride for her big day, glamming up a model for a photoshoot, or filming a lesson for my online course, I rely on a carefully curated selection of products that deliver flawless results every time.
Here’s a peek inside my kit and the go-to essentials I simply can’t live without:
1. Skin Prep is Everything
A smooth canvas is key to a long-lasting makeup look. I always start with a hydrating mist and lightweight moisturiser to awaken the skin and create a supple base. My favourites include:
Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré – a cult classic that suits most skin types
Charlotte Tilbury Magic Cream – for instant glow and hydration
MAC Fix+ or Tatcha Luminous Dewy Skin Mist – to prep and refresh
2. Primer with Purpose
I believe in tailoring primers to the skin’s needs. My top picks:
Hourglass Veil Mineral Primer – perfect for smoothing and extending wear
Tatcha The Silk Canvas – ideal for pore-blurring and a silky texture
Milk Hydro Grip Primer – great for grip and glow, especially on combo skin
3. Foundations I Trust
When it comes to foundation, I need products that photograph well, wear beautifully, and suit a wide range of skin tones. I rotate between:
NARS Natural Radiant Longwear Foundation
MAC Studio Fix Fluid
Armani Luminous Silk
Too Faced Born This Way – hydrating and buildable
I custom mix shades and often use a damp beauty blender for a seamless finish.
4. Concealers That Work Overtime
Brightening, correcting, sculpting — concealers are my multitasking heroes.
Tarte Shape Tape – unbeatable for coverage
NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer – ideal for under the eyes
Too Faced Multi-Use Sculpting Concealer – love the flexibility
5. Cream Products for a Natural Glow
I love using cream bronzers, blushes, and highlighters for a radiant, skin-like finish.
Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Contour Wand
Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Blush
Westman Atelier Lit Up Highlight Stick – a glow from within
6. Powders to Set Without Drying
Setting the face is crucial — but never at the expense of glow. I use:
Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder
Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Finish
RCMA No Color Powder for precision work
7. Eye Essentials
For eyes, it’s all about versatility and depth.
MAC Paint Pots (Soft Ochre and Painterly) – for priming
Anastasia Beverly Hills and Natasha Denona Palettes – rich pigment, blendability
Inglot Gel Eyeliner in 77 – for the blackest wing
Individual lashes or Ardell Demi Wispies – to finish every eye look
8. Brows & Definition
Benefit Precisely, My Brow Pencil – easy and natural
Anastasia Brow Freeze or 24hr Brow Setter by Benefit – for lift and hold
9. Lips I Love
Lip combinations are a signature part of my looks. I mix textures and tones for perfect definition.
MAC Lip Liners in Spice, Whirl, and Soar
Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Collection
Fenty Gloss Bombs for a juicy, plump finish
10. Finishing Touches
MAC Fix+, Urban Decay All Nighter, and Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Setting Spray keep everything locked in.
I also never forget to highlight the collarbones or shoulders if needed — especially for events and photoshoots.
The Art Behind the Kit
Every product in my kit has been tested, loved, and proven through years of hands-on experience and experimentation. I teach my signature techniques in my online makeup course, where you’ll not only learn how to use these products, but why they work so beautifully together.
If you're a fellow makeup lover, aspiring artist, or someone who simply wants to elevate their makeup routine, I hope this insider look inspires you.
Stay flawless,
Katherine Art