In the previous post, I explained the importance of make-up for actors. Actors NEED a basic make-up kit. Period. Whether you’re a rookie or a seasoned actor, you’ll find yourself signing on to certain projects where a make-up artist may not always be on set, due to budget constraints. And if you’re just starting off you will definitely need clips from most of the footage you’ve shot to put a reel together. Advice: you better look good in that reel in order for anyone (of importance) watching it to take you seriously. This post is going to focus on building your basic make-up kit and which brands to look out for.
A great way to start is to figure out what you would like to store your make-up in. I have a small make-up bag, but I’d prefer a case with several compartments. Reason being is that it’s a little more difficult to find what you’re looking for in a bag, so I usually end up having to take everything out. It’s also important to store everything properly to avoid spills and/or breaks. Believe me when I say, the make-up you own is more valuable than the money spent on it. Those of you who are embarrassed to be caught with a make-up bag/case, can make their make-up storage a bit more discreet by buying a tackle/tool box! That way when your friends hop in the car they won’t ask any questions… except the ones about why the hell you’re driving everywhere with a tackle box when you don’t even fish. But never mind that.
Ok, now on to the essentials!
Make-up tools that you are going to need:
- Face wash
- Moisturizer
- Q-tips
- Wipes
- Sponges
- Brushes
- Cotton balls/swabs
- Old T-Shirt/Towel (So you don’t get make-up on your wardrobe)
- Tweezers
Girls, we need a lot more make-up than guys do so we will be spending a bit more, but we don’t have to break the bank either. Here is what we need:
Face:
- Primer
- Concealer/touch up stick
- Foundation
- Powder
- Highlight
- Shadow
- Blush
Eyes:
- Eyeliner
- Eye shadow
- Mascara
- Eyebrow filler
Lips:
- Lip Liner
- Lipstick
- Lip-gloss
- Chap stick
Men, you lucky boys don’t need too much — unless you’re playing a woman in your next film!
Face:
- Primer
- Concealer/touch up stick
- Foundation
- Blush: Only to accent! The foundation may make you seem a little flat and an appropriate amount of blush will give you back some color
- Powder
- Eyes
- Eyebrow filler: Only to accent or fill in gaps lightly.
Lips:
- Neutral lip balm
Some of these items can be very expensive. You may be able to get away with cheap eye shadow, lipstick/gloss, mascara and eyeliner but it’s very important NOT to go the cheap route when it comes to Primer, Foundation, Concealer, Blush and Powder. Going cheap on any of these items I listed can have a nasty effect on your skin, pores and can cause breakouts. 
Ok, so I can name a few brands for you. Cinema Secrets is very popular for TV&Film use, Ben Nye is mainly known for their Theatre make-up. There is also Eve Pearl, Joe Blasco and many more. My personal favorites are Cinema Secrets and MAC. I have been using MAC for a while because I buy the products that are good for studio and everyday wear. No matter what brand you choose to go with, I would recommend you do your research and find a store near you where you can try the make-up and ask the professionals what they think is best for you.
Click on the Camera Ready Cosmetics logo below to browse different brands or do some online shopping for make-up for actors. 