Make-Up for an Active Life

When it comes to make-up, I am by no means a girlie-girl. “Getting ready” usually consists of a little face powder here and there, a swipe or two of mascara, a touch of blush on my cheeks and maybe lip gloss or, let’s face it, Chapstick. Foundation and concealer just aren’t my thing, an eyelash curler still looks like a torture device to me, and let’s just say that the last time I tried to apply eyeliner it ended poorly for both my eyes and my outfit. Plus, I’m so darn pale that any dark or unnatural colors make me look like I’ve gone Goth. So, like I said, I’m not the gal you come to for make-up advice. (For that go to FBG Tish who did my make-up for high school dances, major outings and even my wedding!)

Somewhat ironically—and in an attempt to push my make-up boundaries—I agreed to test out a few items from Rae Cosmetics line after a reader hipped us to its performance line. I figured that I’d be the harshest critic of all, seeing that I only use make-up that’s fast, easy, natural-looking and idiot-proof.

I tried the Climate Control Mineral Tint SPF 20, which is a sweat-resistant foundation, antioxidant moisturizer and non-chemical sunscreen all-in-one. I like all-in-ones, as you might imagine. And I pretty much loved it. It felt more like a tinted moisturizer than a foundation, and although it gave my skin a bit of a sheen after application (pale is one thing, but pale and shiny is another), it definitely gave me more coverage without feeling heavy. And the best part? It stuck on my face even after a run that had me sweating like a dude! No more of that make-up-coming-off-in-your-gym-towel phenomenon. Hallelujah!

Next for me to try was the Lip Shade Lip Stick, which is billed as a lipstick and lip gloss in one with SPF 15. At different times in my life I’ve had a strange fascination with lip gloss, so this was a good one for me to put to the test. I tried the color “Sun Bunny” (cute play on snow bunny, huh?), “Hula Hottie” and “California Cutie,” and their clever names didn’t disappoint. All left a barely there, natural finish that freshened up my lips without looking like I was trying too hard. The lipstick doesn’t last forever by any means, but with vitamins A and E, chamomile, jojoba and avocado oil, it does keep your lips smooth and soft. (And is way cooler than Chapstick.)

So what’s the cost? Most items are in line with department-store brands. The tint goes for $39, and the lipstick will cost you $18. Although they’re not cheap, I would say what I sampled was worth the price. Especially if you’re like me—always on the go, needing something that will last from Zumba to the grocery store to a meeting and back again, with very little margin of application error. Idiot-proof and ups my girlieness? Heck yeah! —Jenn