Working from home has redefined how we approach our daily routines, and for many career women, it has also changed how we think about our makeup routines. The shift from office life to remote work doesn’t mean you have to let your makeup routine slide into oblivion. In fact, this is the perfect opportunity to revisit your makeup stash, find hidden gems, and redefine what a fresh, camera-ready face means for you. At Misaglow, we believe that makeup is not just about appearance; it’s about self-care, confidence, and making the most of what you already have.
Rediscover Your Makeup Stash
One of the most exciting aspects of working from home is the chance to get creative with what you already own. Before you consider purchasing new products, take a deep dive into your makeup stash. You might be surprised at what you find—a nearly forgotten brightening concealer, a lightly-used blush, or a multipurpose palette that’s begging to be rediscovered.
Here’s a tip: lay out your products and start grouping them by category—concealers, bronzers, blushes, and so on. This visual inventory can help you see exactly what you have and inspire new combinations that you might not have thought of before. For example, that brightening concealer you set aside could be the answer to those dark circles that seem magnified on camera during your virtual meetings. It’s all about making your existing products work harder for you.
Focus on Key Areas for a Polished Look
When it comes to work-from-home makeup, the goal is to enhance your natural beauty with minimal effort. Think of it as a “you but better” look. Focus on key areas that will be most visible on camera: your under-eyes, cheeks, lips, and eyes. These are the features that make the most impact in a virtual setting.
1. Under-Eye Area:
Dark circles can be especially pronounced on camera, but a good brightening concealer can make all the difference. Apply a small amount in a triangular shape under your eyes and blend it outwards. This not only conceals dark circles but also highlights your face, giving you a more awake and refreshed appearance.
2. Eyes:
If you’re not a fan of false eyelashes or extensions, don’t worry. A high-quality mascara can open up your eyes and make them pop on screen. A quick swipe of mascara can be the difference between looking tired and looking vibrant. Don’t forget those brows!! They frame your face and can really make that impact that you are seeking! If you want to add a bit more definition, use a soft eyeliner to subtly enhance your lash line.
3. Cheeks:
A light blush or bronzer can add warmth and dimension to your face, making you look healthy and glowing on camera. Choose a shade that complements your skin tone and apply it lightly to your cheeks. If you have a multipurpose palette like the Hourglass Tiger Palette, you can also use it to contour lightly or as an eyeshadow for a cohesive look.
4. Lips:
Even if you prefer a natural look, don’t forget your lips. A natural lip color or a simple gloss can add just the right amount of polish to your overall appearance. If your natural lip color tends to fade on camera, opt for a tinted balm that provides both hydration and a hint of color.
Lighting: Your Best Accessory
Good lighting is crucial when you’re on a virtual call. It can enhance your makeup and ensure that your efforts don’t go unnoticed. Position yourself near a natural light source, like a window, for the best results. If natural light isn’t available, consider investing in a ring light or a desk lamp that mimics daylight. The goal is to avoid shadows and create an even, flattering light that highlights your features.
Proper lighting can make even the simplest makeup look radiant. It ensures that your brightening concealer does its job, your mascara brings out your eyes, and your blush or bronzer adds that perfect touch of warmth. I would normally use a medium sized ring light that can be plugged into my laptop’s USB ports. It also serves as a decent desk light!
Embrace Multipurpose Products
In a work-from-home setting, time is often of the essence. This is where multipurpose products shine. They allow you to achieve a polished look quickly and with minimal effort. Here are a few Misaglow favorites:
1. Multipurpose Palettes:
A good palette can be a game-changer. For example, the Hourglass Tiger Palette is perfect for adding warmth, defining your eyes, and even doubling as a subtle eyeshadow. You can achieve a cohesive look with just one product, making it a valuable tool in your work-from-home arsenal.
2. Tinted Moisturizers:
A tinted moisturizer or a lighter coverage foundation with SPF is a fantastic option for light coverage that also protects your skin from UV rays. It evens out your skin tone while keeping your face hydrated, giving you a fresh and natural look that’s perfect for the camera.
3. Cream Blushes:
Cream blushes are incredibly versatile as I usually stay away from mattifying blushes. They can be used on your cheeks, lips, and even your eyelids to create a monochromatic look. I use my blush palette from the Pat McGrath Bridgeton collection. Due to the bulky packaging, it poses a challenge for me to store this palette away. However, it has found a home in my home office. I just love the way that it looks on my desk! Either way, cream, shimmer and natural finish blushes blend seamlessly into the skin and provide a dewy finish that looks beautiful on camera.
Miniature Makeup Bags: Stay Prepared
One of the simplest ways to ensure you’re always camera-ready is to keep a miniature makeup bag at your desk. This bag should contain your essential products—brightening concealer, mascara, a natural lip color or gloss, and a light blush or bronzer. Having these items within arm’s reach means you can quickly freshen up before a meeting without having to hunt down your makeup.
A small mirror, a travel-sized setting spray, and a couple of makeup brushes can also be added to your desk bag. This way, you’re never caught off guard by a last-minute virtual call.
Rotate Your Products
As a makeup enthusiast, it’s easy to stick to your favorite products out of habit. But one of the best ways to maximize your makeup stash is to rotate your products regularly. This not only prevents products from going to waste but also keeps your routine fresh and exciting.
Every few weeks, swap out your go-to items for something different from your stash. Perhaps a blush you haven’t used in a while or a lipstick shade you’ve been neglecting. This rotation can breathe new life into your makeup routine and help you rediscover products you once loved.
Makeup as a Daily Motivation
There’s a psychological boost that comes with applying makeup, even if you’re not leaving the house. Starting your day with a fresh face can set a positive tone and enhance your productivity. It’s not just about looking good; it’s about feeling good.
When you look in the mirror and see a fresh, glowing face, it can give you the confidence to tackle your workday with energy and enthusiasm. Whether you’re giving a virtual presentation or working on a solo project, feeling put-together can make all the difference in your mindset and performance.
Achieving a “You But Better” Look
The beauty of work-from-home makeup is that it doesn’t have to be complicated. The goal is to enhance your natural features with minimal effort. Start with a solid skincare routine to ensure your skin is hydrated and prepped. Then, focus on concealing any areas of concern, such as dark circles or blemishes, and adding subtle definition and color to your face.
The “you but better” look is all about using just enough makeup to enhance your natural beauty without looking overly made-up. It’s about feeling confident and beautiful in your own skin, with just a touch of polish to elevate your look.
Conclusion: Make Your Makeup Work for You
At Misaglow, we believe that makeup is about more than just appearance—it’s about confidence, self-expression, and making the most of what you have. Working from home doesn’t mean you have to abandon your makeup routine. Instead, it’s an opportunity to get creative with your existing products, focus on key areas, and embrace a fresh, polished look that makes you feel empowered and ready to take on the day.
So the next time you sit down at your desk, take a few minutes to freshen up your face. Not only will it enhance your appearance on camera, but it will also serve as a reminder of your beauty, strength, and capability. Whether you’re on a virtual call or working solo, let your makeup be a source of motivation and inspiration. After all, a little glow can go a long way.
Glow On!
Misaglow
