under the radar

Under-the-Radar Beauty: Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics

Photo: Courtesy of Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics

Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics is one of those cult brands that makeup artists love but only sometimes tell us regular folks about (thanks for the lookout, guys), created back in 2004 by New York makeup artist David Klasfeld, who realized that high-definition cameras were ending the careers of anyone without the skin of a 2-year-old. Klasfeld developed an oil- and silicone-free airbrush foundation called OCC Skin, which allows makeup to seamlessly blend into complexions (more necessary now than ever with The Cut’s zoom feature because, ahem, Kate Middleton, now we can see your overly contoured cheeks). While OCC Skin is still the line’s signature product and comes in a thoughtful array of shades for every ethnicity, the brand’s best seller is the more amateur-friendly Lip Tar, an intensely pigmented, liquefied lipstick in 36 high-impact shades, including blue, green, and purple (for those who like statement lips), all packaged in a Neosporin-type tube. As makeup artist Frances Hathaway recently explained to us, “It goes on slick and smooth, but dries down to a satin finish.” Tip: Apply a small amount with a brush, as fingertip applications can get messy. 

OCC Airbrush Makeup kits, from $399; OCC Lip Tar, $14.50, OCC Makeup

Under-the-Radar Beauty: Obsessive Compulsive