How to use the right tools to apply makeup

Any woman who wears makeup has experimented with different shades of lipstick, thicknesses of mascara, and textures of foundation. We have all gone to great lengths to discover the secret of a fabulous face. In my own quest, I seem to fall short. I have been applying makeup for nearly twently years, yet there are still areas of my makeup application that continually leave me bewilldered. Perhaps it is not just what we put on our face that matters, but in the way we put it on. There always seems to be something new coming out each month, in the line of makeup products. I have researched many of the newer and older, trusted items. I have compiled a list of my picks for "Best makeup applicators". The list consists of each makeup product and beneath that label you will find a description for the best applicator to use with that item.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Cosmetic sponge
• Quality slanted brush
• Eyelash Curler
• Blow Dryer
• Lipstick brush
• brush and comb combo
• everyday makeup products

1. 1. Foundation
   
   For liquid and cream foundation the best applicator tool is a cosmetic sponge. Always be sure to use a fresh clean sponge when applying your makeup. If using liquid foundation, blend it in a little bit at a time. For cream foundation you should use long, whisping strokes.
2. 2. Eyeliner
   
   One of the newest trends in eye liner is the cake eyeliner. This type is perferred most by professional makeup artists. This type of eye liner should be applied using a high quality slanted brush. You can create very thin lines or go for a more dramatic look. This may take some practice, but definately worth the effort. If you are not quite ready for a "cake" walk, I suggest using a felt tip eyeliner pen. It gives you the precision of liquid eyeliner with the control of a pencil. For wide set eyes, emphasize the inner corners. For close set eyes, emphasize the outer corners.
3. 3. Eyeshadow
   
   The newest type of eyeshadow is cream. When selecting this type of shadow, be sure to use one that has a good formula for not causing creasing after application. The best applicator for this product, believe it or not, is your own finger. You simply blend in the cream from the lid to the brow. It helps to use a concealer, matching your skin tone, applied to your lid and brow first. Next, use a neutral shade of shadow on top of that. This will create a base for your eyeshadow and keep it in place. Select a medium color and apply it to just your lid. Finish with a darker, perhaps more dramatic color to the very bottom of your lid and moving out into the corner of your eye, in the crease where the brow meets the lid. For traditional eyeshadow, a long quality brush works best. Experiment with different thicknesses to acheive the look you desire.
4. 4. Mascara
   
   The best applicator tool for this product is not actually what you use to apply it, but what you use to enhance the effects. After applying your mascara (start at the base and wriggle the wand back and forth as you bring it up), use a heated eyelash curler. You can use your hair blower to gently heat the curler. Be careful not to overheat it or you may burn your eyelid. This will help to set your mascara and will dramatically define your eyes by giving you the appearance of thick, long lashes. To avoid clumps, try using a brush and comb combination. This helps to separate and lengthen your lashes. You will want to use this prior to the lash curler.
5. 5. Eyebrows
   
   For those of us with faint or light brows, an eyebrow pencil is essential to our makeup arsenal. I have picked up a new tip for defining those skimpy brows. Using an eyeshadow brush to smudge in your brow pencil lines works amazingly well. You can even use a shade of eyeshadow in a slightly darker tone than your natural hair, in place of the eyebrow pencil. It works just as well, if not better. You don't get those obvious sharp lines, like you do with a pencil.
6. 6. Lipstick
   
   Most women that I know apply their lipstick with the tube they bought it in. Although it works, there is a better way. I have discovered the lipstick brush. If using a tube lipstick you can sweep your brush accross the tip of the stick. Use the brush, starting at the the edges of your lips and working your way to the center. This will allow you to get more precision and the correct amount of pigment to your lips. For lasting color, try applying a matching lipliner shade to your entire lips, before applying your lipstick.
   
   
   Now that you have the tools of the trade, go out there and make your self UP!

Tips & Warnings

• Use natural lighting to apply makeup, whenever possible. This will give you the best, truest results.
• Discard old eye and lip makeup, they are a breeding ground for bacteria.
• When possible, use new sponges to apply foundation. You will get a better, healthier result