If you lost all your makeup, start with base essentials like Milk Hydro Grip primer and Haus Labs foundation, then add dimension with Patrick Ta blush and versatile eyeshadow. Focus on quality multi-use products over quantity.
π MakeupFrom YouTubeΒ·π 2 min readΒ·Published: January 16, 2026
Essential Makeup Must-Haves: Building From Scratch
Discover the ultimate makeup essentials you'd buy first if you lost everything. From base to finishing touches, these are the true holy grails.
β‘ Key Takeaways
β¨Start with base products - primer, foundation, and concealer create your canvas
π§Invest in multi-use products like cream blushes and bronzing sticks
βοΈChoose versatile eyeshadow palettes that work for day and night looks
πQuality lip products like Summer Fridays balm serve multiple purposes
What would you buy first if you lost all your makeup? This age-old beauty question reveals our true holy grail products - the ones we simply can't live without. While most of us love variety in our makeup collections, narrowing it down to absolute essentials is both challenging and enlightening.
The Foundation of Any Collection
Starting with the base is crucial. The [PRODUCT_LINK:Milk Hydro Grip] creates the perfect canvas, followed by the [PRODUCT_LINK:Haus Labs Triclone Foundation] for flawless coverage. For concealing, both the [PRODUCT_LINK:Nars Soft Matte Concealer] and [PRODUCT_LINK:Kylie Cosmetics Power Plush Concealer] are must-haves for different needs.
Adding Dimension and Color
Bronzing and contouring bring life back to the face. The [PRODUCT_LINK:LYS Bronzing Stick] offers convenient application, while the [PRODUCT_LINK:Patrick Ta She's That Girl Blush] adds the perfect flush. For a more budget-friendly option, the [PRODUCT_LINK:Essence Sun Club Matt Bronzing Powder 03] delivers excellent results.
Eyes That Speak Volumes
Eye makeup can be kept simple yet impactful. The [PRODUCT_LINK:Lunar Beauty Nude Prism Palette] provides versatility for any look, while the [PRODUCT_LINK:Rare Beauty Liquid Eyeliner] creates precise lines. Don't forget the [PRODUCT_LINK:Benefit Fan Fest Mascara] to complete the eye look.
Perfecting the Pout
Lips deserve attention with products like the [PRODUCT_LINK:Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm] for hydration and the [PRODUCT_LINK:MAC Cork Lip Liner] for definition. The [PRODUCT_LINK:Fenty Gloss Bomb $weetmouth] adds the perfect finishing touch.
Building a makeup collection from scratch teaches us what we truly value. These carefully chosen essentials prove that quality trumps quantity every time.
π‘ Expert Tips
Prioritize Your Base First
Always build your collection starting with primer, foundation, and concealer. These create the foundation for everything else and make the biggest visual impact when you're starting from zero.
π Pro tip: Mix your foundation with primer for sheerer coverage that lasts longer
Choose Multi-Tasking Products
Look for products that serve multiple purposes, like cream blushes that work on lips or bronzing sticks that can contour and warm up your complexion. This maximizes your budget and minimizes clutter.