What to Carry in Your Purse

Quick -- off the top of your head -- when's the last time you cleaned out your purse? Yesterday? A week ago? A month ago? Last year? We're willing to bet that it's been quite a while and frankly, your bag could use a good clean-out. We'll leave the checkbook/wallet/cell phone/Advil part up to you -- but we're here to help with the beauty part. Chances are you're toting around way too many products that are too old or outdated. And no matter how perfect that shade of lipstick is (you know, the one that's a nub, with the cat fur and crumbs stuck to the case), you'd do better with an update. Here, the only beauty essentials you need in your bag -- and the ones to lose now. Keep These... Blotting papers: By far, powder-covered blotting papers are godsends in the name of beauty. Use them traditionally to sop up midday shine without applying more cakey powder, or get more creative: Smooth over greasy roots for an emergency hair cleaning, or use them to blot lipstick (apply another coat on top and the powder will up the staying power). A perfect pinky-brown lipstick: A universal shade that works with your skin tone is a beauty must-have -- perfect for picking up your look, even if you're wearing no other makeup. When you find your perfect pinky-brown shade (the color that most resembles your lips), buy two -- one stays at home, and one stays in your purse for on-the-go touchups. Tip: Choose one in a sheer or glossy formula to add moisture as well as color to lips. A multipurpose beauty stick: If you're ever caught in a situation where you need a bit more makeup than lipstick to polish your look, turn to an all-over color stick. Choose one in a shimmery mauve or bronze, which you can apply on lids, cheeks, and even lips for a sophisticated monochrome makeup look. A cuticle oil pen (and nail file): Since your hands are some of the first things people notice about you, keeping them groomed is essential. A cuticle oil pen can give dry, flaky cuticles an instant dose of moisture, making them look shiny and healthy. And a mini nail file will smooth out snags (so you don't ruin your hose). Eyedrops: If you wear contacts or spend a lot of time outside, dry eyes are probably common for you. The problem is, dry eyes can turn red and itchy, looking unattractive and causing unsightly mascara run. Keep a mini bottle of eyedrops (contact-friendly ones if you wear lenses) in your bag to freshen up dry eyes without makeup. Toss These... Pressed powder: Applying it over shiny skin only serves to creates a cakey, chalky effect. Mini perfume bottles: There's no graceful way to re-spritz during the day -- no matter where you are (your office, the bathroom, the street), you'll gag people with perfumed air. Lipsticks you wear once a month: Why add to the weight of your bag? If you don't wear it daily, keep it at home.