Make-up Essentials

A moisturiser (SPF 15) protects skin from pollution and the sun. Use this at night as well to protect against exhaust fumes. Lakme and L'Oreal have a wide choice of moisturisers, which are easily available over-the-counter at all shopping malls and major stores.

Compact powder is another necessity because it keeps your skin looking fresh all the time. Indian skin tends to get oily because of the humidity and powdering it keeps the oil away. A compact sits well over a moisturiser and you will have a clean, sleek look throughout. Lakme and Chambor have a wide range of compacts available at all major malls, stores and chemists.

A mascara opens up your eyes and will make your face look brighter. It is always handy for last minute make-up. There are a wide range of mascara available ranging from the regular, water-proof and transparent types. Lakme, Revlon, Chambor and Teen are some of the popular ones available in all shopping malls and stores.

Lip-pencil defines your lips and keeps your lipstick in place for a longer period. Badly done lips are a major put-off and the pencil helps preserves the lipstick. Choose a colour that suits your skin tone and then fill with a lipstick close to the shade. Revlon, Maybelline, Chambor and Lakme are available in all major malls and stores.

Lipstick completes your lips. It protects them from the elements and keeps them looking good. Branded shades have moisturisers and sunscreens so that your lips are protected always. The difference between your lip-pencil and lipstick should be two shades only and not more. Revlon, Lakme, Maybelline and Lakme are available in all major malls and stores. Avon is available in authorised showrooms.

These make the basic and most essential make-up requirements to keep you looking fresh round-the-clock.

(With inputs from: Clint Fernandes, make-up artist)