Beyond the Camera: Crucial On-Set Items for Every Actor

Makeup bag filled with cosmetics


Whether hair and makeup are provided on set or not, here is a list of items I've learned to always bring with me just in case:

  1. Silicone heel grips- I've had an experience where the shoes didn't fit and kept sliding off my heel. In the event wardrobe doesn't have any one hand I now always carry a pair of removable heel grips. The last thing I want is to be walking in a scene and my shoes slide off. 
  2. Clear Instant Dry nail polish- I have a metal allergy and often costume jewelry is not hypoallergenic. So before I put it on I have to coat it with a few coats of nail polish. After that, I'm good to go. Story: The one time I didn't have any with me my neck broke out in hives while taping. Luckily my wardrobe covered most of it but I was red for days. 
  3. Collapsible hair brush- Because you just never know.
  4. Flushable wipes- I've worked on a set where they've run out of toilet paper and/or I've also been on my menstrual cycle and just wanted to be as clean as I could. Always keep these on hand. 
  5. Lidocaine pain gel- I have bunions on both of my feet so often the shoes I wear cause me a lot of pain. I keep the pain gel nearby in case I need to numb it out. Most recently as well, the one time I forgot it, a woman hurt her shoulder on set. The lidocaine could have helped her a bit, but she managed. 
  6. Makeup remover wipes- In case my MUA runs out. Or in case I am my own MUA.
  7. Nail file with buffer- I am also a hand model and keeping my nails in top condition is important. I keep this for any last-minute snags and to be able to add a quick shine. 
  8. Nail kit- For same as above. But includes the clippers. 
  9. Hand sanitizer- Because COVID and germs still exist or bathrooms run out of soap. Or sinks don't work...
  10. Travel-size body lotion- To make sure I'm always moisturized in all areas of my body that will be shown on the camera.
  11. Deodorant
  12. Facial tissue
  13. Lactaid supplement- I am lactose intolerant and though I always inform Crafty Services of my dietary restrictions, sometimes they offer a dessert that includes dairy and I can't resist. So I keep the supplement nearby to avoid effects.
  14. Disposable contact lenses- I am a glasses wearer but I wear my contacts when on set. I keep a pair of extra disposables in case the scene sends dust or debris to my eyes.
  15. A few Q-tips- For light makeup removal if needed. 
  16. Blurring Powder Foundation from Make Up For Ever- My favorite foundation for the camera. It was created specifically for being in front of lights and cameras. It also matches my shade perfectly. 
  17. Makeup sponge
  18. Eyebrow Pencil
  19. Makeup brushes
  20. Eyelid primer
  21. Waterproof Mascara
  22. Fenty Beauty concealer
  23. Chapstick
  24. Longwear Lipstick
  25. Toothbrush and toothpaste.

Everything fits in a large makeup bag so it doesn't take up too much space. See anything that surprised you? Comment below!