Makeup on the move

We’re finally on the move again, resuming the daily commute and even clocking up airmiles. All of which means that we’re also back to hurried hairstyling and eyeliner on the train. We’ve all done it…

Makeup on the wing is all about choosing formulas that work with fingertip application (preferably without the need for a mirror) and are fool-proof enough to withstand potholes and errant elbows. The perfect mix of portability and functionality, they should also allow for a seamless transition from day-to-night, especially with party season upon us.

With that in mind, meet the makeup heroes that are your perfect in-transit travel buddies.

Multi-tasking is the name of the game when it comes to makeup on the hoof and this dual-purpose cream colour from Bobbi Brown comes in a mirrored flip-top compact for easy application wherever you find yourself.

Forget laborious contouring, Clinique’s on-the-go glow-giver imparts instant radiance in one simple swipe. Apply in a diagonal line along the tops of the cheekbones and blend into the skin using your fingers. Bye bye grey commuter face.

Designed to be used on lids and cheeks, this butter-soft balm from Giorgio Armani (balm and cream textures are made for beauty on the go) allows you to subtly enhance and define your features without the need for brushes.

Stay looking cool as a cucumber whatever the day throws at you with Shiseido’s shine-scavenging papers. No mirror required, they instantly delete excess sebum without the cakey feel of a powder.

Touted as effortlessly easy to apply thanks to Benefit’s innovative ‘AccuFlex Tip’ which hugs your lashline from corner to corner, this quick-drying felt tip liner may just pass the taxi test.

Foundation generally doesn’t make the best travel companion as anyone who has dealt with the fall-out of a leaky lid will attest but this hydrating prêt-à-porter base from bareMinerals makes perfecting your complexion a doddle.

What do you get when you cross a lash primer with an eyeliner and a mascara? This magic wand courtesy of IT Cosmetics, which gives instant definition to tired eyes. The peptide-infused formula coats lashes from root to tip with a ‘tight-lined’ effect to save you grappling with eyeliner as well as your train ticket.

Groomed brows instantly make you look more put together and one swipe of this brow-boosting gel from MAC adds bulk, colour and structure to even the most wayward arches. Geometry degree not required.