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:
- 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.
- 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.
- Collapsible hair brush- Because you just never know.
- 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.
- 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.
- Makeup remover wipes- In case my MUA runs out. Or in case I am my own MUA.
- 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.
- Nail kit- For same as above. But includes the clippers.
- Hand sanitizer- Because COVID and germs still exist or bathrooms run out of soap. Or sinks don't work...
- Travel-size body lotion- To make sure I'm always moisturized in all areas of my body that will be shown on the camera.
- Deodorant
- Facial tissue
- 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.
- 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.
- A few Q-tips- For light makeup removal if needed.
- 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.
- Makeup sponge
- Eyebrow Pencil
- Makeup brushes
- Eyelid primer
- Waterproof Mascara
- Fenty Beauty concealer
- Chapstick
- Longwear Lipstick
- 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!
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