Earlier this week, an email from a work colleague (Subject: Good Different) took me by surprise. She had written to compliment me on my makeup that day.

Unlike most days, I hadn’t had much time to be meticulous with my beauty look that morning. With the help of my newly discovered beauty faves, I was out the shower and through the door in 15 minutes.

It was a good reminder that sometimes, less is more. It was also a good nudge to share my updated list of best beauty buys here on the blog.

1. L’Oréal Infallible Pro-Matte 24 Hour Foundation

This product has all the features of a department-store / designer makeup brand for way less. It is lightweight, offers good coverage and holds up despite my super-oily skin. And did I mention that it stays in place all day?

Where to get it
United States: Your favorite neighborhood pharmacy or Ulta
Barbados: iMart

2. M.A.C. Fluidline Gel Liner 

I’m a fan of this product in “Blacktrack.” Using a super-skinny liner brush, I swipe it along my lash line to make my eyes pop in a pinch.

Where to get it
M.A.C. stores worldwide

3. Make Up Forever Smoky Extravagant Mascara

I used to depend on drugstore brands for a lash fix but then I discovered Make Up Forever’s mascara. It adds volume, length and a powerful curl. Just one stroke and I’m done! I love it so much, I invested in a travel size and a regular tube.

Where to get it
Sephora

4. Urban Decay de-slick Makeup Setting Spray

I have plenty confidence in the L’Oréal foundation. But sometimes, when Caribbean temperatures peak and I have a busy day, things can get pretty oily, pretty fast. If there’s lots of heat in the forecast, I mist my face with this just before I step outside.

Where to get it
Sephora
Ulta
Urban Decay

5. Free Spirits Lip Color

I’ve lost count of the number of “nude” lipsticks I’ve had to throw out because they weren’t quite, well, nude. That’s why I was so excited when I discovered this “Caribbean Spice” shade from Free Spirits Cosmetics. It’s a perfect match for my skin tone! What’s more, it’s a Barbadian brand, which makes me even prouder to have it in my beauty arsenal.

Where to get it
Click for purchasing info