Paula Begoun's Beauty Tips

Curl eyelashes before applying mascara.

Paula Begoun, known as the "cosmetic cop," has built a reputation in the beauty industry as the woman who separates fact from fiction. With the beauty industry being a multi-billion dollar industry, Begoun sifts through products touting hefty claims and reports as to whether or not they live up to their promises. Begoun is also the best selling author of "Don't Go to the Cosmetics Counter Without Me."

Eyeshadow

Begoun states that the key function of wearing eyeshadow is to contour the eye shape and blend eyeshadow that goes from light to dark. The function of lighter colors is to highlight certain points of the eyes, whereas dark colors serve to minimize more prominent areas. For a classic eye, Begoun recommends using two colors. A lighter color can be applied to the lid of the eye. Applying a darker color in the crease will contour the eye shape.

Makeup Dos

Begoun has compiled a list of makeup "dos" that can apply to women of every skin tone. She says that when applying foundation to your face, apply it to your eyelids as well. This can help serve as a primer for eyeshadow and eyeliner, helping eye makeup to stay in place. Using professional makeup brushes is also highly recommended by Begoun. Invest in high quality makeup brushes and set aside cheap applicators that come with palettes.

Makeup Don'ts

Forgo wearing a full face of makeup on a daily basis. Putting together a simple, yet classic look for daily life is important. A day to day makeup routine could include foundation, concealer, lipstick, mascara, blush, and an eyebrow pencil. Avoid leaving the house without lip color. A bit of color on the lips can brighten the overall appearance of the face. Avoid using dark colors on lips as this can tend to give off a Gothic vibe.

Mascara Secrets

Advertisements for mascara, with models dawning long, thick lashes, can be misleading. It is not uncommon for the models to actually be wearing false lashes. To achieve luxurious lashes, apply mascara in several coats. Apply two to three layers on one eye, go to the other eye, and back to the first eye and apply another coat. When curling lashes, apply mascara after you have curled your eyelashes. Never curl your lashes when mascara has already been applied to them. This can be damaging to the lashes.

References

• Paulas Choice: Makeup Application Step-by-Step
• Cosmetics Cop: Eyeshadow 101
• Cosmetics Cop: Makeup Dos & Don't
• Cosmetics Cop: Mascara Secrets Unveiled