Application Technique

Understand How The Pros Apply Makeup

When you were growing up, who taught you to apply your makeup? Did you teach yourself? If so, you probably picked up some bad habits such as using the applicators that come with the products - or worse, to use your fingers. If this is the case, stop right now and learn a whole new way to apply your makeup and have a perfectly flawless face with every application. For all the steps listed below, always use an upward motion and the proper tools/brushes! Using an upward motion will not cause damage to the skin (sagging) and brushes are extra gentle on the skin and help to blend the product in.

Step One:
Clean skin with a gentle cleanser and moisturize. Apply SPF and let it dry.

Step Two:
Apply concealer to cover any unwanted imperfections. Use a concealer brush to do so. Using your fingers can aggravate blemishes and cause damage because of the tugging on skin. We recommend the Amazing Cosmetics Concealer Brush.

Step Three:
Apply foundation ONLY if needed. Some women can forgo full coverage, while others opt for a sheer foundation or mineral based foundation. In either case, use a good foundation brush or cosmetic sponge with ample product on it so it glides across the skin. Always use an upward motion and be sure to blend in any telltale lines. Only put it where you need it.

Step Four:
Apply powder to "set" foundation. Use a large brush and apply it with upward sweeping motions. For touch-ups, first blot up excess oil and shine on face with oil absorbing facial papers such as the Lauren Hutton Suck Ups, which will absorb excess sebum and leave makeup intact. It is recommended that you re-apply powder only when absolutely necessary in order to avoid the "caked-on" look.

Step Five:

Apply blush with a medium sized brush to the apples of the cheeks and blend upward along the cheekbone. To define cheeks for the more chiseled look, apply a slightly darker shade of blush in the hollows of the cheeks and use a shimmery highlighting shade along the cheekbone. Blend well.

With your base set, it is time to move on to doing eyes and lips. Using the right eye brushes and lip brushes can help you achieve the look you wish to have from the smoky eye effect to a wide-eyed doe look. One of our favorite eye looks is to do the classic eye with complimentary colors. Click here to read more.

You can take your pout from plain to perfect just by using a good lip liner and applying lipstick with a lip brush. Take a few minutes to watch this video for secrets on applying lipstick.
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