How to Apply Makeup for a Beginner

Choosing the right foundation is the first step in applying makeup.

A makeup counter -- full of liquids, powders, tubes and brushes -- may appear daunting to someone who has never applied makeup before. It is difficult to determine which products are necessary and which products best fit your particular skin type and tone. Making an appointment for a makeup consultation at a department store or salon may be a good first step, but once the consultation is over, you are on your own.

Things You'll Need

• Foundation
• Makeup sponge
• Eyeshadow
• Waterproof mascara
• Lipstick
• Lip liner
• Blush

Instructions

Foundation

1. Choose a foundation that matches your skin tone and fits your skin type. Test the foundation on the back of your hand to see if it is a good match. The foundation should match exactly or be slightly lighter than your normal skin tone. For oily skin, choose a powder foundation. A liquid foundation works best for dry skin or for extra coverage.

2. Apply a moisturizing cream with your fingers before applying the foundation. Let it set for a few minutes.

3. Place dots of foundation around your face using your fingers or a makeup sponge. Make sure to include dots on your chin and the tip of your nose.

4. Blend the dots using the sponge or your fingers to cover your entire face. Take extra time blending in the foundation around your hairline and chin.

Eye Makeup

1. Choose a color of eye shadow that complements the color of your eyes, such as warmer shades for blue eyes and greens and golds for brown eyes.

2. Purchase a waterproof mascara with a brush that is proportionate to your eyelashes: a thicker brush for long lashes, a thinner brush for short lashes.

3. Apply eye shadow starting at the inner corner of your eye, stopping just before the outer corner, using an eye shadow brush. Only apply the shadow to the lid of your eye. One coat should be enough to create the desired effect.

4. Place the mascara wand at the top of your eyelashes and move it from root to tip to get the mascara on your lashes. Two or three swipes should cover the lashes on one eye. Repeat for the other eye and do the same for the bottom set of lashes, moving slowly because they are often shorter and it is easier to accidentally poke your eye.

Lipstick and Liner

1. Choose a lipstick shade by dabbing a bit of it on your lips with a cotton swab to see if you like the color. Purchase a lip liner that is two shades lighter than your chosen lipstick color.

2. Outline your lips using the lip liner. To create a straighter line, start from the outer edge and stop at the center.

3. Swipe the tube of lipstick on your top and bottom lip or use a lipstick brush.

4. Blot your mouth with a tissue to remove any excess lipstick.

Blush

1. Choose a color of blush that closely resembles the color of your cheeks when they are flushed, or one that matches your lipstick color.

2. Smile a wide smile to outline where to place the plush, sometimes called the "apples" of your cheeks.

3. Use a full powder brush to tap on the blush, while still smiling. Start at the roundest part of your cheek and move diagonally towards your temple. Once you have tapped on the blush, swoop the brush across your cheek to blend it in.

Tips & Warnings

• If lipstick runs, line lips with lip liner before applying lipstick.

References

• Oprah.com: Problems with Foundation, The Puzzle Solved; Jessica Matlin; September 2007
• Mary Kay: Eye Promise
• Beauty Sensation: How to Apply Lipstick