How to Apply Makeup

Selecting the right makeup and applying it correctly so that you look as good as you feel can seem overwhelming. Follow these simple steps, and you can be confident when you walk out that door.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Mascara
• Lipstick or gloss
• Blush
• Finishing powder
• Makeup brushes or sponge applicators
• Foundation cream or powder
• Eye shadow
• Eye liner

1. Decide the goal of your makeup and plan accordingly. For example, use darker makeup for night, lighter for day, or neutral to go from day into night.
   

2. Select your tools. Think about what items you will use: foundation, eye makeup, blush and/or lipstick. Also choose what you will use to apply the makeup: brushes, your fingers or sponge applicators.
   

3. Choose your colors. Base this on your hair, skin-tone, clothes you will be wearing and time of day.
   

4. Apply a base to your face and eyes. This can be cream or powder foundation, makeup primer, bronzer or any combination of the three.
   

5. Brush on eye shadow, followed by eye liner and then mascara.
   

6. Spread blush, applying it to the apple of your cheeks and working out. Blend to look natural--there shouldn't be a defined line showing on your cheeks.
   

7. Brush on lip gloss, lipstick or any combination you like.
   

8. Set all the makeup by brushing a finishing powder very lightly over your face.
   

Tips & Warnings

• Use moisturizer before your foundation.
• Choose colors that you have been complimented on in the past.
• If you are unsure of what type or brand of makeup you should use, or how to apply it properly, ask someone. Go to a salon, ask a friend or consult the makeup counter specialists at a department store.
• If using concealer, it is actually best to apply it over foundation. It allows you to better see where it is needed and helps prevent obvious differences in color.
• You can apply makeup in a different order for eyes, cheeks and lips although you should apply your all over base first.
• Don't overdo it. A good rule of thumb is heavier makeup on the eyes means lighter color on the lips and vice versa.
• Don't be afraid to start over if it doesn't look right.