Need for Speed: Makeup Artist Maria C. Scali Shares the Tools That Rev Up Your Makeup Application Time

I don’t care if you’re keying a TV show, working with A-list celebs, jamming backstage at a fashion show or doing bridal makeup on a special day; the bottom line is there’s always a rush to get the job done. Time is money, and it always seems that makeup artists never have enough time to craft their work. And if you think you’re working at your max, I guarantee you can still shave minutes off your of application time with the addition of some tools and products that will make your job that much easier.
 
Shadow Shields
Shadow Shields are a life- and time-saver. Remove the backing from these half-moon adhesives, and adhere them under the eyes. These handy tools will block any errant shadow or eyeliner that falls from creating a mess under the eye. If you like to apply foundation and concealer before you paint the eyes, these are a godsend! When you’re done applying your shadow and liner, peel the Shadow Shields off, and...voila! No mess to clean up and need to redo your concealer and foundation, thus saving you valuable time.
 
Beautyblender
I love applying foundation with the Beautyblender sponge because it gives a flawless application, making the skin appear airbrushed. Due to its shape, it can be used to apply foundation without the addition of extra tools (i.e. concealer brushes), which makes it a must-have applicator because every second counts when the clock is literally ticking.
 
MAC Cosmetics Mineralize Charged Water Skin Hydrating Mist
If the skin is already somewhat moisturized, I like to use MAC Cosmetics Mineralize Charged Water Skin Hydrating Mist for added lubrication because I don’t have to take the time to add an additional moisturizer.
 
NARS Skin Smoothing Face Prep
If, on the other hand, the skin is still a bit dry and I lack time, I go straight for the primer. If that’s the case, I favor a moisturizing one such as NARS Skin Smoothing Face Prep.
 
Make Up For Ever Aqua Waterproof Makeup, Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics Lip Tars and Violent Lips
Talking about saving time, who has the spare minutes to re-apply fading makeup or to re-do a cat’s eye that’s worn off? That’s why I turned to Make Up For Ever Aqua colors for lips and eyes. They’re waterproof, smudge-proof and provide great wearability. Also awesome: Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics Lip Tars, which maintain their luster sans round-the-clock touch-ups. Want to create a super-intense design, but time ain’t on your side? Try temporary lip tattoos by Violent Lips. Apply the overlay tattoo, and you’re done!
 
These are just a handful of products that I’ve found have increased my speed. I could go on and on with tips for speed, but then again, who has time to read? –Maria C. Scali
 
–Maria is a New York-based celebrity makeup artist whose clients include George Clooney, Steven Tyler and Jewel. She has also worked on the CBS Morning Show and is the makeup artist/groomer for The Roots and celebrity guests on The Jimmy Fallon Show. Her work has appeared in Vogue, Elle and Rolling Stone, among others.