The Foundation of Endurance: Primer
A flawless look that lasts all night—through camera flashes, victory speeches, and after-parties—doesn't start with foundation. It starts with primer. Think of it as the essential base layer that creates a smooth, even canvas for everything that follows.
For an event like the ESPYs, where makeup needs to perform under pressure, a primer is non-negotiable. It works by filling in fine lines and minimizing the appearance of pores, which allows your foundation to glide on more evenly. More importantly, it creates a barrier between your skin and your makeup, helping to control oil and prevent your look from fading or melting away. Drugstores offer a wide range of primers tailored to different skin needs. If you have oily skin, look for a mattifying primer to control shine. If your skin is on the drier side, a hydrating or illuminating primer will give you that coveted dewy glow. The popular e.l.f. Power Grip Primer, for instance, has a tacky texture that literally grabs onto your foundation, locking it in place for hours.
Eyes That Won't Quit: Tubing Mascara
Raccoon eyes are the enemy of any big event. The solution, trusted by those in know, is tubing mascara. Unlike traditional mascaras that paint lashes with wax and pigment, tubing formulas use polymers to wrap each individual lash in its own tiny, water-resistant tube. This technology is a game-changer for longevity. These tubes are smudge-proof, flake-proof, and can withstand sweat, humidity, and even tears. Despite their incredible staying power, the removal process is surprisingly gentle; a splash of warm water and light pressure is all it takes to slide the tubes right off your lashes, no harsh makeup remover or rubbing required. This makes it a great option for those with sensitive eyes. For a red carpet-worthy look, you want lashes that are defined, lengthened, and separated. Tubing mascaras excel at this, providing a clean, fanned-out effect without clumps. Drugstore shelves are filled with excellent options like e.l.f. Lash XTNDR and L'Oréal's Double Extend Beauty Tubes, both of which deliver dramatic length and smudge-proof wear.
Color That Commits: Lip Stain
A bold lip is a red-carpet staple, but lipstick on a glass or, worse, your teeth, is not. This is where lip stain comes into play. Unlike lipstick, which sits on top of the lips, a stain's lightweight formula penetrates the top layer of your skin, leaving behind a wash of color that won't budge. This makes it transfer-proof and incredibly long-lasting—perfect for a night of smiling, talking, and sipping drinks. Lip stains offer a versatile, “your lips but better” effect that feels weightless and comfortable. You can apply a sheer layer for a natural tint or build it up for a more vibrant, saturated look. For a polished, ESPYs-inspired pout, start by exfoliating your lips for a smooth surface. You can even use a primer around the edges to prevent any feathering. Many drugstore brands like Maybelline, NYX, and Covergirl offer fantastic lip stains that provide hours of wear without drying out your lips.
Bringing It All Together
With your base, eyes, and lips locked in, the rest of the look comes down to personal style. The 2026 ESPYs red carpet saw athletes like Ilona Maher embracing a soft, ethereal glam that was polished yet light. This trend toward a more natural and blended look has been popular all season. To complete your drugstore glam, consider a touch of liquid highlighter on the high points of your face—cheekbones, brow bone, and the bridge of your nose—for that lit-from-within glow. A well-groomed brow frames the face, so use a pencil or gel to define your arches. Finally, a spritz of setting spray can provide extra insurance, melding all the layers of makeup together for a seamless finish that’s ready for its close-up, whether you're walking a red carpet or just want to feel glamorous for a night.
