Here's What You Should Always Have In Your Makeup Bag

Looking for a list of must-haves because your makeup bag is in need of an overhaul? Or maybe you're a beginner that's confused by the thousands of cosmetic products on the shelves? You'll want to make sure your bag is always stocked with the basics.

Let's start with the skin, because a radiant face begins with good skincare. To create the appearance of a fresh face, prep your skin with a good moisturizer like CeraVe ($12; Target). Once you're moisturized you'll want to create a flawless finish, and that's where a great foundation comes in. If you have combination skin or worry about product settling into fine lines, try Lancome's Teint Idole Wear Foundation, which is long-lasting and comes in 50 shades ($47; Lancome).

To highlight your eyes and make them look bigger, all you need is a hard-working mascara. Good Housekeeping senior beauty editor Alice Manning recommends using ultra-black shades and applying multiple layers with a lash comb to get rid of any clumps. "Something I would never leave the house without wearing, glossy black lashes make everything better," she says. If you want to add dramatic length, try Benefit's They're Real Lengthening & Volumizing Mascara ($25; Sephora).

For a more defined eye that will really make your peepers pop, eyeliner is a must. A little can truly go a long way, and Revlon's ColorStay Eyeliner is the perfect choice since it lasts all day, comes in multiple colors, and won't break the bank ($8; Revlon).

An everyday makeup bag wouldn't be complete without a nude lip and a flattering statement lipstick that can take you from day to night. InStyle recommends using Chanel Rouge Coco Shine ($38; Chanel) for a hydrating nude lipstick, and for a bold lip that looks good on every skin tone, try Rihanna's Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint in Perfect Universal Red ($25; Fenty Beauty). This lipstick is appropriately named, as it truly looks incredible on everyone.

To complete your look, use a powder that will eliminate shine and reduce the look of pores, making your skin picture perfect for a night out. Benefit Cosmetics' Shine Vanishing Pro Powder ($32; Macys) makes your skin look smooth and comes with an easy to use built-in brush. 

With these items in your makeup bag, you'll be ready for work or play.