The Beauty Staples One Buzzy Makeup Artist Would Buy With $100 in Her Pocket

When it comes to playing with makeup, Robin Black is all in. This triple threat—makeup artist, photographer, blogger—created the site Beauty Is Boring back in 2012, and since its inception, the brand has been anything but boring. Trust. Even if you aren’t one of her 129K Instagram followers, there’s a good chance you’ve seen her iconic shots on your Insta discover screen or in the pages of glossy magazines like Elle, Harper's Bazaar, or Vogue. 

They're marked, of course, by a stark white background paired with flawless skin and a dash of color somewhere the complexion—never contrived, so as to not look cool, but super precise so that you know it's the work of an artist. Naturally, Black receives a mother load of products to test, so, I had to know about the ones that have become her absolute go-tos for turning a blank canvas into a face you won't forget. 

Keep scrolling to find out her top 4 and get ready to stock up.

Suqqu Eyelash Curler, $38

“Everyone who tries this eyelash curler raves about the results,” says Black. “I keep one in the studio, one in my personal makeup bag, and I stash away an extra in my car for last minute glam. Pro tip: Always curl your lashes before applying mascara. Doing it after can break them, especially if you’re using a waterproof formula.”

Kosas Weightless Lip Color in Electra, $28

“There’s nothing like a statement red lipstick to instantly brighten your face and mood,” admits Black. “This gorgeous shade is paraben-, phthalate-, and sulfate-free, and it doesn’t feather or settle into creases! I also use it as blush—just dab a small amount on the back of your hand and warm it up by gently rubbing with your finger. Then, dot it onto the apples of your cheeks, blending up and outward for the perfect flush.”

Glossier Cloud Paint in Haze, $18

“A tiny bit of this sheer color gives cheeks a healthy, happy, glowing look,” explains Black. “It’s super easy to apply, whether on bare skin or over a cream or liquid foundation. What’s more, the translucent formula looks great on a wide range of complexions.”

Dr. Lipp Original Nipple Balm for Lips, $10

“The name might sound scandalous, but this is the best lip balm you will ever use,” says Black. “It’s 100 percent natural—no fragrance, parabens, sulfates, or any yuck stuff—and it keeps lips hydrated for an incredibly long time. I apply it before bed every night, and it’s my go-to for long flights and dry weather. In the studio, I apply a generous amount to lips and allow it to sit for at least 10 minutes. Then, I blot it off and apply lip color. It’s my dream product!”

Beauty experts know a thing or two about products: Here's what Khloe Kardashian's hairstylist would buy with $100, and what the world's most influential beauty blogger would pick up.

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