Makeup for Presentations That Won't Budge

Build your base strong, define your features clearly, and skip anything that might migrate during stress.

1. Prime everything. Use primer on face and eyes. Your skin will be under scrutiny and stress sweat is real. A good primer keeps foundation from sliding and eyeshadow from creasing when you're under hot lights or nervous.
2. Build coverage strategically. Medium to full coverage foundation applied with a damp beauty sponge. Set immediately with translucent powder, especially your T-zone and under-eyes. You want to look polished from across a room, not perfect up close.
3. Define your features boldly. Slightly heavier hand on blush, bronzer, and brows than usual. Conference lighting washes you out and cameras flatten features. Think one step more dramatic than your daily look.
4. Make your eyes the focus. Neutral eyeshadow in matte finishes. Define the crease clearly and line your eyes with waterproof liner. Mascara on top and bottom lashes. Skip lower liner if you tend to tear up when nervous.
5. Lock it down. Setting spray is non-negotiable. Mist from arm's length after everything is complete. Blot any excess with a tissue. Carry only powder and lipstick for touch-ups.