Could you use these in an exposed setting?

Make up lighting is usually exposed incandescent bulbs - try one if it doesn't suit your need return it to Lowes.

These lights are bright white, and show colors very well (see my review for a photo). Depending on how frontal they are mounted, they may blind you. If they are mounted to shine more from the sides, or especially if they are mounted behind a light diffusing lens (such as those found on florescent ceiling fixtures), (or both) they may work much better for this application.