Basic Makeup Tips and Tricks

The easiest way to update, transform or change your look? Play up your gorgeous features with the right makeup! No expensive tools required – -just follow these simple makeup tips and tricks to enhance your already beautiful face.

Every time you apply makeup, make sure your face is freshly washed and exfoliated. You don’t want to start with a dirty slate. Gather your tools, which should include a magnifying makeup mirror and a trusty set of makeup brushes. Start your routine with a layer of foundation. Foundation is the perfect way to blend away lines, wrinkles, red spots, dark patches and other minor blemishes. Choose a shade similar to your natural skin tone. Then, apply using a synthetic sponge or your fingertips, if you choose. Dab the foundation on first and then blend it using downward and outward strokes. Use too much? The opposite side of the sponge is perfect for removing extra foundation. Remember never to use foundation on your neck or chin — and do everything in your power to avoid the ugly “makeup mask”. That means you must pay special attention to your jawline and hairline.

Next, choose a concealer about one or two shades lighter than the foundation you chose, because a shade too light will reveal dark patches. Concealer is a wonderful way to target certain areas and ensure a flawless finish. Start by applying it in a small arc underneath your eyes – your eyelids, too, if you find that they are a little dark or discolored. A criss-cross shape formed on any red spots will help to alleviate the unsightliness of the area. Blemishes can be concealed by dabbing concealer on top of, not around, the blemish. To blend the concealer, use a dabbing or tabbing motion. If you use a side-to-side motion you will only take off the concealer, not blend it. Apply a light layer of powder by dusting it across your entire face to minimize shine. Feel free to re-apply powder throughout the day as a quick touch-up instead of re-applying concealer. For some extra color and sexiness, apply blush in a downward stroke across the cheekbone.

Highlight your eyes with a simple coat of mascara. For added emphasis on your lashes, curl your lashes with an eyelash curler before applying mascara. Once curled, use an upward sweeping motion to brush the lashes with mascara. Bottom lashes can also receive a coat of mascara. If you’re looking for a more dramatic look, consider using eyeshadow as well. The basic principle of eyeshadow is to use the lightest color on the entire eyelid, and a darker shade in the crease of the eyelid. However, experimenting with eyeshadow is a fun way to play with your look. Just remember that lighter colors will draw attention to the area and darker colors will add the appearance of depth. After eyeshadow, apply eyeliner. There are several eyeliner options available, but only choose a liquid liner if you have an unfaltering hand. Keep the liner super close to the lashline whether you’re working on the top or bottom lid. Draw the line in one motion and follow the natural arc of the eye. Bigger eyelids require you to draw a bigger line to get the same effect as a smaller line on a smaller eyelid. And contact wearers beware – only apply eyeliner after your lenses!

Lastly, you’ll want to concentrate on creating your perfect pout. For lots of color, line your lips with lipliner, staying as close to the natural shape of your lips as possible. Lipstick can then be applied using a lip brush, especially if you have a small mouth that might be too tiny for a tube of lipstick. Not into color on your lips? Opt for a chapstick or gloss instead. Your lips will still look natural, but soft, sexy and shiny, too.

Makeup is a super-easy, super-fun way to change up your look. After following these basic makeup tips and tricks, you can confidently go out into the night (or office, or on that dinner date…)