Any woman who has put on makeup at least once in her life has some tips to share, but these tips don't always make sense. In fact, even professional makeup artists offer suggestions that seem to contradict each other. The truth is that everyone has their own preferences on the effect that make-up should have and on the application techniques. If you find something that's right for you, that's better, otherwise keep looking. This article offers tips and tricks for getting started.
Steps
Part 1 of 5: Starting from the Base
Step 1. Create a primer base, a cream / lotion / gel product to apply directly to the skin before proceeding with the rest of the makeup
It was especially designed to protect make-up in humid environments, as it keeps it intact for longer.
- Although it can be applied all over the face, it should be used in smaller amounts on the T-zone (forehead, nose and chin) and cheeks, areas that tend to produce more sebum.
- Avoid using silicone-based primers, which can dry out the skin and cause excessive sebum production;
- If you don't want to use it, try replacing it with a water-based face lotion;
- There are specific primers for the eyes, so don't apply one to the face on the eyelids;
- A veil of cornstarch is a possible alternative to the primer;
Step 2. Consider the climate when choosing your foundation, a product available in different formulations:
liquid, gel, cream and powder. Unlike cream foundations, liquid and gel foundations hold better when the weather is hot and humid. If it is hot, it is preferable to use a powder foundation rather than a cream. In "normal" climatic conditions, all types of foundation are suitable.
BB creams, which are quite fashionable, can melt when the weather is hot and humid
Step 3. Choose your foundation considering your skin type
It is important to examine your skin especially when you want to buy a foundation to use on a regular basis. For example, if you have dry skin, you may want to opt for a liquid or powder product (but containing moisturizing ingredients). If you have oily skin, choose only powder or mattifying foundation.
Step 4. Match the foundation color to the rest of the body
Many people choose this product considering only the color of the face. At the time of application, however, a sharp contrast can be created with the body. If it's summer and you've exposed your skin to the sun while wearing tops and shorts, the difference will be quite noticeable.
Instead, choose the color of the foundation adapting it to the neck, arms and chest. It will conform to the bust and ensure that the entire skin surface has a homogeneous color
Step 5. Apply liquid foundation from the center to the outside
Pour a small amount of the product on your fingers or a sponge, then pat it on your forehead, nose, chin and cheeks. Tap outwards and downwards starting from the center of the face until it is completely covered.
- This method of application allows you to flatten the facial hair, preventing it from sticking out;
- This type of application involves following the opposite direction to the one followed to wash the face and apply the moisturizer.
Step 6. If you have oily skin, use a powder foundation
Those with normal to dry skin do not need to use a powder product. On the other hand, in the case of oily skin, a foundation of this type is strongly recommended to keep the shine under control.
To get even coverage it is best to use a soft brush or powder brush
Part 2 of 5: Adding Color to the Face
Step 1. Consider using a bronzer
This product has the function of darkening the skin, as if it were tanned. However, if you use one that is too dark for your complexion, you risk looking older than you actually are. Instead, aim for a discreet effect that enhances the features.
- Use a matte bronzer for a beautiful glowing complexion. Iridescent bronzers should only be applied to illuminate certain areas.
- Choose a lighter bronzer than the one you actually want to use and gradually move to a darker tone until you find the perfect color.
- The bronzer should be applied only on the points of the face most exposed to the sun's rays: cheekbones, forehead and nose.
Step 2. Avoid mixing different types of formulations for foundation and blush
Use the same. For example, if you are using a powder foundation, choose a blush that has the same texture. If you're using a cream blush instead, choose a cream blush.
Step 3. Choose a blush that creates a natural complexion that suits your complexion
If you apply too much, make up for the excesses by covering them with a foundation. Go for a color matched to the lips. If you make them up with a cool color, use a cool blush.
When in doubt, use a rosy blush with brown undertones
Step 4. Choose the right wording
The blush can be cream or powder and have different types of finish (iridescent, matte, etc.). Consider the climate to figure out which one is right for you. Matte cream blushes are best on hot, humid days, while powder blushes are fine in spring or fall.
Part 3 of 5: Enhancing the Eyes
Step 1. Choose the right eyeshadow to enhance your eyes
Matte eyeshadows allow you to achieve a uniform effect. Colors like brown and taupe look good on just about anyone, while mauve and plum let you create classic makeup.
Step 2. Apply two types of eyeshadow and eyeliner
These products can fade over the course of the day or evening. A solution to the problem? Use two types of eyeshadow and eyeliner at a time to ensure superior durability.
- On the eyelids you can apply an eyeshadow primer to make it last longer;
- You can replace the primer with a cream eyeshadow, and then apply a veil of powder eyeshadow. This will make the product last longer and intensify the color.
- For the eyeliner, first draw a line with a gel product, then apply some powder eyeshadow to make it last longer.
- Don't want to use two different colors? Create a base with an eyeshadow of a color similar to the lightest area of the face, then layer it with a veil of colored eyeshadow.
Step 3. Curl your lashes with an eyelash curler, a specially shaped tool halfway between a pair of scissors and a guillotine
If you're going to use it to curl your lashes even more, do so before applying mascara. Fold each group of lashes three times: once at the base, once in the center and once at the end.
Step 4. Thicken your brows with a powder product
If they are sparse or need more definition, try using a powder that is two tones lighter than the hair. Apply it with an angled brush until you get the thickness you want.
- If you have white or gray hair, go for a taupe gray to a color that suits your hair;
- If you have red hair and can't find a suitable eyebrow pencil or powder, try using a lip pencil or eyeshadow.
Part 4 of 5: Creating Full Lips
Step 1. Make the lipstick color match your natural lip color
Unless you need to wear makeup for a special event or gala, opt for a color that naturally enhances the lips. If you have trouble finding the right one, choose a sheer tone that allows you to make the base color stand out.
Step 2. Don't worry about finding the perfect pencil
It is difficult to find a lip pencil that is the exact same color as the lipstick. Instead, use a natural tone that can go with any type of lipstick.
Step 3. Change your lipstick from season to season
There are different types of lip products, including lipsticks, lip glosses, balms, tints and many more. Each of them has a different finish. In summer it is advisable to prefer opaque or veiled products to particularly shiny ones.
Reserve shiny products for summer evenings, special events and the winter season
Part 5 of 5: Real Pro Tricks
Step 1. Apply concealer to a retractable lip brush
In fact, this type of brush can have other functions. It is useful because you can apply some product on the tip and close it to protect it. If you used concealer to make up your makeup, pour some on the bristles and take it with you. You will simply have to open the brush and apply it when you want to touch up your make-up.
Step 2. Use fixing sprays with caution
If you are doing heavy-duty makeup or need it to last a long time, it is an extremely useful product, and it also helps to keep makeup in place on hot, humid days when the skin is sweating. However, it can cause difficulties when removing make-up, so choose carefully.
Step 3. Avoid using a powder foundation to remove excess oil and touch up shiny areas
You may be tempted to use a loose or pressed powder foundation to combat the greasy effect, the problem is that you risk finding yourself with a mask. Use sebum-absorbing tissues to absorb excess fat and protect makeup.
- You can try wrapping a powder brush with a sebum-absorbing tissue to make it easier to use;
- You can also alternate between sebum-absorbing tissues and face powder (both during the day and in the evening), rather than using one product alone.
Step 4. Extend the life of your mascara by using moisturizing eye drops
Unfortunately, mascaras tend to dry out quickly. As lumps form on the brush, application becomes more and more difficult. Instead of replacing it before the canonical three to four months, pour a couple of drops of eye drops into the tube to dilute it.
Step 5. Save the mascara brush for other uses
When it comes time to throw it away, keep the pipe cleaner. Wash it to remove product residue and use it in other ways, such as combing your eyebrows.
Step 6. Create a custom foundation
You can mix it with other products to slightly modify the final effect on the face and give it new functions. For example, you can mix it with some moisturizer to lighten it and moisturize your face at the same time. If it's too liquid, add some loose powder foundation (of the same tone).
Advice
- Before starting to put on make-up, you should always wash your face, dry it and apply a moisturizer. Make sure your cream or foundation contains a sun protection factor, which should be used all year round, not just in summer.
- When applying foundation or concealer, you should always try to cover a large area with as little product as possible. The secret is not to overdo it.
- Brushes should be washed regularly. To start, pour some makeup remover on your hand and twist the bristles to dissolve and remove any makeup residue. Rinse it and wash it with a facial cleanser to clean it thoroughly. Finally, make a final rinse and let it dry in a horizontal position (never vertical).
Warnings
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Just like food, tricks also have an expiration date. All cosmetic companies indicate it on the package. While this may seem like a waste to you, replacing products on a regular basis is necessary to take care of the health of your eyes and skin.
- Mascaras expire after 3-4 months.
- Eyeshadows after 12-18 months.
- Lipsticks after 12-18 months.
- I foundations after 6-12 months.
- Eyeliners after 18-24 months.
