Make Up Application 101
Make up application need not be hard or frustrating. Applying make up is pretty easy once you learn the basic techniques. There are two very common mistakes that women make when they apply make up. They either use the wrong colors, or they apply too much make up. Using the wrong colors can make anyone look like they have just playing in their mother’s make up bag. Generally, chose colors that compliment your skin tones, not colors that match your shoes! If you have light skin, do not go with dark colors. Also, do not try to apply too much make up. You do not want to look too made up. You just want to have a nice health glow.
When you are ready to apply make up, consider using a concealer. Not every women needs concealer. However, concealer can help you hide unflattering under-the-eye circles, or flaws and blemishes on your skin. In addition, the use of the right kind of concealer can enhance the overall look of your face. Look for a concealer that closely matches your skin tone. If you get a color that is too light or too dark, it will show. When you apply the concealer, do not stretch the skin. Instead use a light patting motion. Concealer comes in stick creams, bottles and powders. You might also want to consider concealer creams that are shaded yellow or green. While it may sound strange, green and yellow can diminish the look of purple or red blemishes.
After you have covered your dark circles or blemishes, you will be ready to apply foundation or base. This usually comes in a thin cream and also matches the color of your skin. There is a new product out that is gaining popularity. This is spray on foundation. This comes in a can, much like hairspray and is easy to apply evenly. Not everyone uses foundation, but if you have uneven skin tone or freckles, using foundation can enhance your appearance. When apply foundation, use a make up wedge or your fingers. Generally, start applying from your nose and work your way out. Also, you will want to make certain that you have blended the foundation in well around the edges of your face, especially around your chin and jaw line.
The next step in applying make up is to use apply blush. Blush also comes in many colors and varieties. Powder blush is probably the most popular, followed by sticks or creams. Find a shade that compliments your skin tone. If you are uncertain about what color looks best on you, visit a make up counter in a department store and have the salesperson help you find what looks best. Consultation is free and you are under no obligation to purchase. If you are applying the powder variety, use an angled make up brush and apply the powder on the apples of your checks. Brush the powder upwards towards your temples. You can then blend in the powder using another brush. Make sure the blush is well blended around the temples making sure that the fine powder is not in the hairline. If you have too much, you can use a clean brush to simply brush away some of the excess.
Now it is time for the fun part. You can apply the eye make up. This is when you have a chance to experiment with different shades and colors. Try shades until you find one that is flattering to you. When applying eye shadow start at the corner of the eyelid and apply it going out. You can either use the applicator the make up comes with or use a small brush that will look like a flat paintbrush. You can then apply a lighter shade on the top of your eyelid and blend the two colors together. You can even experiment with using several shades together as long as you blend the colors together. If you have sensitive skin, you may find you are unable to use many types of eye shadow. This is usually due to the scents and fragrances that are used. Look for a hypoallergenic kind (such as Physician’s Formula) or one that is marked “fragrance free”.
The eyeliner and mascara comes next. When you apply eye make up, be careful to use clean applicators and never lick the eyeliner. Also, do not be tempted to apply eyeliner on the inside of the eyelid. Eyeliner comes in various shades and in pencil form or a liquid form. Pencil eyeliner is usually easier to apply than the liquid. Mascara also comes in several colors. If you have droopy eyelashes, consider using an eyelash curler for maximum effect. For those that suffer from watery eyes from allergies or who swim, look into using waterproof mascara. Try to find colors that are neutral. Most women tend to go with browns or blacks.
When you are done, you can apply your lipstick. As a general rule, do not go to bright if you have pale skin. If your teeth are on the yellow side any lipstick that is too red will only enhance the discoloration of your teeth. Besides lipsticks, glosses are very popular and fun. These usually come in tubes with applicator sticks. Most of these products will give your lips a light color without washing out your skin color.
Make sure that you thoroughly remove all make up before going to bed each night. Build up from make up can cause all kinds of skin irritations. Find a gentle cleanser, such as Noxema and use it every time. Also, throw away old make up when it is dry or cracked. Do not try to use old or expired make up, especially around the eye area. This can lead to infections.
Applying make up the right way can help you look your best. If you are ready to experiment with make up, visit your local make up counter today.
