We’re calling it “five in five.”
The pandemic isn’t quite over yet, and virtual meetings are bound to be around for a while even once Covid dies down—WFH and video calls are simply part of 21st century reality.
Sure, you don’t have to turn your camera on if you’re not in the mood to make an appearance (there is even a study that suggests keeping your camera off could help boost productivity in meetings). But seeing people’s faces every once in a while can help foster stronger connections and, let’s face it, often makes for a more engaging and pleasant interaction.
Some of the perks of working from home are getting to wear soft, comfy lounge wear (even pajamas) and not having to carve out time to put on a full face of makeup every day (unless that’s your jam—then, by all means!). Or you simply may not have the energy to get camera ready for an early morning video call.
This is where the following tips are bound to come in handy: we asked makeup artists for their advice on how to “zhuzh” up your face when you don’t have much time at your disposal.
Bonus: these tips work for both video calls and daily outings.
Priorities, Priorities
Since it’s all about timing (along with effort), it’s best to prioritize.
“I’d focus on your complexion first, making sure you feel good all over on your video call,” says makeup artist Kindra Mann. “Even if you don’t have time to put on makeup, you can still get your skin glowing with a good moisturizer,” she says.
As for makeup artist Grace Pae, she suggests focusing on a “fresh-looking complexion, with a pop of color on the eyes and lips to brighten you up, and mascara or eyeliner to highlight your eyes,” she says.
Makeup artist Loren Canby says reaching for concealer is an instant mood brightener. Then, apply some cream blush to add life back into your complexion and carry the same product onto the lips. “Lastly, press a hydrating oil into my skin for the ultimate beauty glow,” she says.
Virtual Essentials
Stashing a few carefully selected products near your desk or workspace will ensure you have everything you need nearby.
Here are five virtual meeting superstars to have on hand:
Tinted moisturizer. Mann recommends opting for an easy base you don’t have to worry about blending in—like a tinted moisturizer with just a bit of coverage. She likes the Charlotte Tilbury Unisex Healthy Glow Hydrating Tint, while Pae recommends the Tower 28 SunnyDays SPF 30 Tinted Sunscreen Foundation.
Concealer. A tube of concealer is also a must-have for quickly camouflaging those dark under-eye circles. Canby suggests the Kosas Revealer Concealer.
Lip + cheek color. Pae says a product that can be used on the cheeks and lips—like the Freck Beauty Cheekslime Lip + Cheek Tint is an essential for a quick pop of color.
Eyebrow gel. Since brows help frame your face and are a strong feature, they’re visible on camera. “An easy-to-use brow product like the Kosas Air Brow Tinted Volumizing Treatment Gel helps define your arches and keeps them in place,” says Mann.
Lip gloss. Lip gloss is an effective way to add a wash of color and a solid dose of moisture to your lips. Mann likes the Saint Jane Beauty Luxury Lip Shine in Calm, a sumptuous nude hue.
Quick Tips
- “The quickest way to apply these products is with your fingers,” says Pae, because it gives you more control by being able to feel how much product you’re applying, as well as the different textures. Mann agrees: “I like a quick, easy, no-fuss application, which allows me to do touch-ups if needed without any additional brushes.”
- Another ideal shortcut: “Using your cheek product as a lip product,” says Canby. Cream blushes and two-in-one lip and cheek tints work best for this.
- Canby also suggests mixing a bit of concealer with a facial oil for a “glowing, even complexion.”
- “Good light is a plus, so sit near a window if you can,” recommends Mann. Natural light is best if it’s available, she says, but if not, a good ring light can be worth investing in. Rather than sitting directly in the harsh sun, move a couple of feet away from the window for the “softest and most complimentary light,” says Pae.
- Also, don’t forget to pay attention to your surroundings, including your background. You don’t need to keep your entire space spotless, but creating a clean-looking area and an interesting backdrop will help ensure you’re always ready to turn your camera on—if you want to.
What are your essential beauty products for being virtual meeting ready? Let us know in the comments below.
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