Could your entire makeup routine fit into a single, sleek stick? That's the bold promise of NARS The Multiple, a cult-favorite product that's been turning heads since its launch in 2001. Inspired by a 90s photoshoot and brought to life by the legendary makeup artist François Nars, this multi-use color stick was ahead of its time. It was one of the first products to truly blur the lines between blush, lipstick, and eyeshadow, and it remains a staple in many beauty bags—including mine, as it was one of the first blush products I ever purchased.
But here's where it gets controversial: in an age of endless beauty innovations, can a nearly 30-year-old product still hold its own? The answer is a resounding yes. NARS The Multiple has been reformulated and upgraded, yet it retains its unrivaled ability to simplify your beauty routine, especially when you're on the go. Imagine replacing half your makeup bag with just one stick—talk about a game-changer for travelers!
At first glance, it seems deceptively simple: a creamy, twist-up stick designed for cheeks, eyes, and lips. But the magic lies in its texture and finish. The formula melts effortlessly into the skin, blending seamlessly without streaking or sitting heavily on top of foundation. It leaves behind a natural, flattering sheen that looks like you’ve just returned from a spa retreat. Plus, it’s buildable—one swipe for a subtle glow, or layer it for a more sculpted look.
For travelers, its practicality is almost too good to be true. Its solid, leak-proof design means no mid-flight spills or airport security confiscations. Its compact size frees up space in your bag for skincare minis or, let’s be honest, snacks. And the best part? You don’t need brushes or sponges—just your fingertips. It’s the ultimate low-maintenance, high-impact beauty tool.
But here’s the part most people miss: choosing the right shade isn’t just about your skin tone—it’s about your undertone. If you’re cool-toned, shades with blue or pink bases (like rose, mauve, or berry) will flatter you most. Warm-toned? Reach for coral, peach, or orange hues. Neutral? Lucky you—you can pull off almost anything. For a quick trick, think about the jewelry you wear most often: gold (warm), silver (cool), or both (neutral).
Application is just as intuitive. For cheeks, dab a bit onto the apples and blend upward. For lips, press it in with your finger for that coveted, diffused ‘cool-girl’ finish. For eyes, blend it onto the lid and crease for a warm, effortless look. Pair it with mascara or eyeliner, and you’re set.
And this is the part that sparks debate: is NARS The Multiple truly the original minimalist’s makeup multitasker, or just a well-marketed classic? While it’s easy to get swept up in the latest beauty trends, this product’s longevity speaks for itself. Decades after its debut, it remains a pioneer—the blueprint for every creamy, multi-use stick that followed. Its new formulation ensures it’s not just a relic of the past but a must-have for modern travelers.
So, is NARS The Multiple the ultimate travel beauty hack? I’d argue yes—it’s a space-saver, a time-saver, and a true multitasker. But what do you think? Is it worth the hype, or do you prefer sticking to single-use products? Let’s debate in the comments!
