I am the not-so-proud owner of combination skin. This usually means by 2pm my make-up has either completely slid off my face or congealed into unattractive dry patches on my cheeks. Lovely.
Here are a few of my tried and tested products that I’m using to attempt to keep my face on past lunchtime.

Estee Lauder Double Wear Foundation | Boots | £27.50

Recently I decided to bite the bullet and splash out on Estee Lauder’s Double Wear Foundation as I had heard so many people rave about it.
The almost powdery formulation is a completely different texture to my previous Clinique Super Balance and so takes much longer to apply. (I prefer to use my fingers to apply rather than a brush or sponge). I’ve had to make sure that my skin is highly moisturised before applying so that the foundation doesn’t cling to my dryer areas.
Boasting an impressive 15 hour staying power, I am pleased to report that this foundation lasts and lasts and lasts. You need a serious amount of make-up remover to eradicate this bad boy from your face. I’ve just switched back to my Liz Earle regime to ensure that every last scrap is removed after I had a few breakouts in my first week.
I’ve heard that the formula is now much runnier than it used to be and I think I speak for a few when I say that the product would benefit from a packaging redesign. A pump dispenser would mean less impromptu movements trying to stop the foundation dripping off the back of your hand.

Bobbi Brown Eyeliner | John Lewis | £17.50

My friend introduced me to this product about four years ago and the Black Ink version has become a staple in my Make-up Bag.
You’ll need a fine brush to apply but the formulation allows quick, precise and smooth application. Providing the brush is scrupulously clean then you can easily achieve a sharp winged look, or you can smudge for a smokey eyed look.
It’s long lasting and water resistant too, but thankfully is easily removed at the end of the day. If you do splash out on the brush it can be a pricey investment but it will last you an age. Pick yours up from John Lewis.

NARS Velvet Lip Pencil | Selfridges | £18

My first purchase of this pencil was a bold and bright fuscia shade which doesn’t seem to be available any more. I was amazed that even after a full day of eating, drinking, gossiping and the like, the colour remained on my lips. I don’t think I’d ever needed to use make-up remover for a lip product before!
This pencil is a jumbo-sized crayon and so putting it on is a doddle. It has a completely matt, yet creamy finish that doesn’t dry out your lips. My newer ‘Pink Cantaloupe‘ shade doesn’t seem to stay around quite as long as it’s fuscia counterpart but still beats other lip products for staying power.

What products do you recommend for their longevity? Any gems that stay put no matter what stresses you’re under? I’d particularly love to hear if you have any budget long lasting make-up staples?