Four basic makeup tips for a 12-hour shift

Being a bedside nurse can sometimes feel like a high impact sport for the amount of action that’s involved. Even if you’re able to keep up with the day, sometimes your makeup doesn’t last so long.

To keep makeup lasting for up to 12 hours, listen to Jason Ascher, resident makeup guru at Barneys New York, who offers his advice on how and what to apply so you look fresh all day (or night), no matter how intense your shift gets!

1. Foundation. Apply foundation only to the problem areas to even out the complexion rather than the entire face. Use a foundation brush to blend in evenly; the bristles will work double duty to buff the foundation to the skin so it stays on longer. Use a foundation that is oil-free. When you’re done applying foundation, dust pressed powder over the face to set the foundation for a gorgeous, even skin tone.

2. Eyes. Rather than use a combination of colors to add contour or depth to the eyes, go simple and natural when you’re wearing makeup for a long shift. Use a neutral-tone, oil-free cream shadow in a vanilla, nude or pale beige to diminish red/dark lids and apply “tubing mascara” such as Kevyn Aucoin or Kiss Me. These are tar- and oil-free polymer-type mascaras that form smudge-free “tubes” or “sleeves” around lashes. Use a liquid eyeliner pen, water-resistant pencil or cream liner rather than a wax-based or kohl pencil, which will smudge and melt easily.

3. Lips. Since lipstick has a tendency to wear off over time, go for a matte lipstick and matching pencil that is similar in shade to or slightly deeper than your own lip color. When the lipstick does wear down, it won’t be as noticeable.

4. Blush. Choosing a soft, neutral rose for fair complexions or brown-berry shades for deeper complexions will keep you looking glowy and alert, even if you’re feeling otherwise. Blush is the most difficult to keep from fading down eventually, so if you have to carry one item in your purse that will act as an instant brightener, make it your blush and reapply on your break!

Dubbed the “East-Coast Beauty Guru” by Barneys New York’s Artistic Director Simon Doonan, Jason Ascher, with his union of artistry and personal shopping service, has helped revolutionize the experience of buying cosmetics, all at no expense other than the cost of the items selected for purchase. Having experienced the boot-camp, backstage training on Bobbi Brown’s Beauty Team; executed runway looks for designers like Peter Som, Roland Mouret and Bradley Bayou; and given the honor of conceiving and executing the look for Mr. Bayou’s first Spring Collection for Halston, Jason honed the understated artistry, skill for instruction and breadth of experience that led him to be enlisted by Barneys New York in the unique position of Resident Artist in 2006.