Makeup Bag Essentials - 7 Tools Every Girl Needs for that Flawless Face

Okay, ladies. We are all wearing such a large variety of hats. We're wives, mothers, entrepreneurs, professionals, best friends, sisters, PTA members -- you can probably call yourself at least 3 of the things listed here. But despite our busy schedules, there is no excuse for not looking our best. Thanks to Stacy, Clinton and TLC we've learned "What Not to Wear." But now it's time that we learn to keep our faces looking as good as our outfits. Besides, the days when wearing makeup was considered sinful and only worn by 'easy' women are long gone. Makeup is a simple way to make that transformation from beautiful to fabulous. And, trust me; it doesn't take a makeup artist or plastic surgeon to achieve that flawless face. With a properly stocked makeup bag, it is easy to hide that scar on your left cheek or create that smoky eye we all adore. Keep these tools in your bag at all times and glam will be only minutes away.

1. Sponge - No! Stop! Don't apply your makeup with your fingertips. I know it seems to make a lot of sense. You can put the makeup exactly where you want it and when it seems that the applicator from your compact is MIA - you don't have to search for your fingertips (unless you spent too much time at happy hour today). But look at it this way; even if your hands are clean, your fingertips are still oily. If you've been dipping your fingers in the foundation and seem to be under constant attack by the pimple monster - now you know why. The oil from your fingers clogs your pores and can even cause an unwanted shine. No woman wants her face to look polished. So, for best results, use a triangular shaped sponge (found in the makeup department next to the cotton balls). The flat, straight edge of the sponge will allow you to get in those nooks and crannies around the eyes and nose. And better yet, they are really inexpensive. Most stores carry them by the bag. It is best to replace sponges once a week to avoid depositing any dirt and oil onto the skin.

2. Eyelash curler - Don't be afraid. This won't hurt at all. It's a funky looking little contraption, but it works wonders. The eyes are no longer the neglected little things that used to be hidden behind wide rimmed bifocals. The eyes are important for more than just sight. They're one of the first things people see. Before plumping your lashes with your favorite mascara, be sure they are properly curled.

3. Eyebrow trimmer and brush - Okay, so these are not technically makeup applicators either. But again, they are just as important. If you care that your lashes are properly plumped and curled, don't ignore what sits above them. Bushy, ungroomed brows are not sexy - don't believe the hype. A little brushing and trimming can add a lot of shape to the brows between waxing. I mean, you do wax them, right?

4. Eye shadow brush - Please don't use those little cosmetic q-tips that typically come with all eye shadows. They don't allow for even application and they're usually rounded, making it hard to reach into the corners of the eyes. Instead, use an eye shadow brush that is no larger than about ½ inch in width. Both ends of the brush head should be tapered to allow for blending and applying shadow in the creases of the eyelid.

5. Small angled brush - This is the brush you'll use to help hide the seam from those fake lashes. The brush should have a tiny head and bristles set at an angle. It's important for applying shadow in straight or fine lines, along the upper and lower lash lines, and inside the eyelid crease. Don't leave this important little thing out.

6. Powder brush - Okay, so you've stopped applying your foundation with your fingertips and now your skin is not so shiny. But don't forgo the powder. It is still necessary, and the perfect brush to use will have a full head of soft bristles shaped into a rounded dome with absolutely no tapering. Always be sure to steer clear of cheaper brushes with hard bristles. They will leave lines in your makeup and they don't feel too good either.

6. Blush brush - Need to add a little color to your face? This is the brush you'll use to make your look come alive. This large, soft, fluffy brush is slightly tapered for easy application.

7. Lip balm - Even if you despise lip glosses, lipsticks, or lip liners - every woman needs a good lip balm in her makeup bag. What's the point of putting on makeup if your lips are dry? It's like getting a pedicure when your heels are visibly dry and cracking. Always keep your lips moisturized. You never know when he'll want a kiss.