One And Done: My Favorite Multi-Purpose Makeup Sticks and Balms

I love this Westman Altier Lit Up Highlight Stick in Brulee for a warm, all-over glow

I have never been one to wear a face full of make-up, and have always gravitated toward a natural look. I remember back in the day buying all the products that promised an effortless, “no-makeup” appearance, and while I never quite perfected it, ironically, it took a lot of makeup to make some version of that happen! As I’ve gotten older, there are days when I will go out with no makeup at all, especially in the summer months, when despite my religious use of sunscreen, I still manage to get a bit of color. Now that all traces of those long summer days have faded away, I definitely need a little something to brighten me up, and like everything else in my beauty routine, I like to keep it simple. Enter multi-tasking balms and multi-sticks, which have become my new beauty obsession and some of the only items I reach for every day (along with my skin care products).

I appreciate anything that allows me to streamline my life, and with limited space in my NYC bathroom, less is definitely more! And beyond the practical benefits of these beauty heroes, the formulations are really amazing for enhancing mature skin, which tends to be drier. The ones I’ve tried are cream or balm-like, so the product doesn’t settle into fine lines and pores. Many are illuminating, but without any sparkle or glitter (which is a pet peeve of mine!), imparting a dewy finish and soft, natural glow, which I think is one of the keys to healthy looking skin. There are also many clean options available (cruelty-free, vegan, no parabins, etc.) that provide treatment benefits in addition to enhancing skin with ingredients like argan oil, vitamin e, shea butter, jojoba seed oil etc.

In terms of application, it could not be more simple. A smooth canvas always helps, so in addition to doing some form of exfoliation every night, I always moisturize first. From there I apply the stick or balm to cheeks, lips, eyelids, and when I’m using the illuminating versions, I apply to other high points on the fact where the light hits such as the bridge of the nose and forehead. The color is also buildable, so it’s easy to play with and hard to mess up! I don’t even use brushes, as the products blend easily with fingertips. Add a swipe of mascara and you’re out the door in minutes.

These ultimate beauty multi-taskers have also made packing for travel so much easier. When I went to Chicago a couple of weeks ago, the contents of my makeup bag consisted of a multi-stick, concealer, mascara and eyeliner (not counting the lip gloss I always keep in my purse!). And I’m a big fan of anything that helps me to travel light, which is always a challenge for me!

Check out some of my favorites below, and get ready to glow!