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With a client list that includes Chloë Grace Moretz, Aubrey Plaza, and Saoirse Ronan, celebrity makeup artist Mai Quynh is a go-to for fresh-faced stars looking to get glammed up for a big event. Tonight, she’ll be prepping Star Wars heroine Daisy Ridley for the Met Gala — and taking over Racked’s Instagram Story to document her process.
Below, Quynh shares a few of her perennial Met Gala go-tos — from an ultra-luxe lip balm to the best-ever eyeliner. You can bet she’ll be using one or more of these hardworking products on Ridley tonight.
La Mer The Lip Balm, $60
“This is my essential must-have to prep lips before any lip color. It smells so good (mint and vanilla), and hydrates the lips without leaving them greasy or too slippery.”
Herban Essentials Lemon Cleansing Towelettes, $14.50
“I love using these wipes because they smell so clean and are very refreshing. The lemon oil is all natural and antibacterial.”
Kevyn Aucoin The Pure Powder Glow, $37
“These blushes are a staple because they're perfectly pigmented, so you can build up the amount you need without having any blending issues.”
Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner, $26
“I use these liners to create the perfect cat eye. They're easy to apply and dry fast, and the color is very opaque. Plus, they come in many shades that range from deep purple to forest green to chocolate brown — and, of course, black.”
Ardell Individuals DuraLash Naturals Lashes in Short Black, $4.99
“These lashes are great for people who want a natural but fuller lash. They're lightweight, so they won't feel heavy or uncomfortable on the eyes. I like to use these to fill in any gaps along the lash line.”
Nars Brow Defining Cream, $24
“I apply this wax with a small angled brush to fill in brows. I find it looks softer than using a pencil. It can still make brows look defined, but you can create ‘hairs’ with the brush.”
Lancer The Method: Nourish, $125
“This is the best moisturizer for dry to normal skin. It's very gentle and hydrating and works beautifully under any foundation. Leaves skin very dewy!”
Clé de Peau Beauté Perfect Lash Mascara, $50
“I love this mascara because it's light and doesn't weigh lashes down — especially freshly curled lashes. Also, it's long-wearing and water resistant, so feel free to apply it to your bottom lashes as well.”
Skyn Iceland Hydro Cool Firming Eye Gels, $30
“Who doesn't need a little love under their eyes? I always apply these eye masks on my clients while they're starting their hair. I leave them on for five to 15 minutes, and they look rejuvenated and energized.”
Kiehl's Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado, $29
“This lightweight eye cream hydrates the eye area perfectly for makeup. It smoothes fine lines and absorbs into the skin, so makeup doesn't move.”