Katie Greenberg, 29, art gallery development director, Boston
THE LOOT: Multiple cosmetic pouches crammed with mismatched brushes, half-used lipsticks, and crumbly eyeshadows.
THE REBOOT: First, toss any expired goods (mascara after three months, creams older than a year, powders three-plus years). Then, switch to one streamlined train case with compartments to help organize day-to-night staples.
Cream Eyeshadow: A do-it-all formula lets you shade, line, and contour eyes in a snap. Apply it lightly for a sheer wash of color, or layer hues for a vibrant effect — no brushes required.
Powder Foundation: Use this versatile complexion booster wet for medium coverage or dry for foolproof touch-ups.
Makeup Eraser Sticks: These handy swabs wipe away smudges, flakes, and mistakes without messing up your makeup.
1. Dior Diorific Vernis Nail Lacquer in Lady, $26. 2. Tarte Cheek Stain in Awakening, $30. 3. Smashbox Limitless 15 Hour Wear Cream Shadow in Neptune, $19. 4. Wet n Wild MegaImpact Mascara in Very Black, $4. 5. Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Brow Color in Light, $21. 6. Givenchy Le Prisme Eyeshadow Quartet in Siena Silhouette, $57. 7. Tom Ford Jasmin Rouge Lip Color in Reckless, $48. 8. Clinique Chubby Stick Intense Moisturizing Lip Colour Balm in Curviest Caramel, $16. 9. Clarins Eye Pencil in Black, $23. 10. Kevyn Aucoin The Sensual Skin Tinted Balm in SB01, $48. 11. Jane Iredale Zap&Hide Blemish Concealer in Z3, $26. 12. Make Up For Ever Pro Finish Foundation in 153, $36. 13. Goody Start.Style.Finish Comb, $7 (sold with brush, not shown). 14. Lancôme Le Curler, $23. 15. Sonia Kashuk Perfect Placement Six-Piece Brush Set, $22. 16. Almay Oil-Free Makeup Eraser Sticks, $6. 17. Sally Hansen Bushy Brows Be Gone Claw Slant Tip Tweezer, $7. 18. Sonia Kashuk Small Train Case in Plaid, $15.