You can reveal and enhance your natural beauty through the careful application of makeup. By following a few simple makeup techniques, you can learn to apply your own makeup the way professionals do. Here are some great makeup secrets you can use in your daily routine.

First, be sure to find the right foundation. Many foundations on the market are too red or pink for most people's skin. Even most Caucasians have a yellow cast to their skin. Be sure to check your foundation under good lighting without any color tinge to it to make sure that it matches. A good foundation can make the difference between looking as though you have flawless skin and looking like you're wearing a mask.

Make sure that you don't apply your makeup too thickly. An overly made up face is considered garish these days, so go light on the foundation, powder, and lipstick. Try for a more subtle look. To look polished without layers and layers of cosmetics, use sheer rather than matte finish makeup, and have your brows shaped. Tidy eyebrows and a slight sheen to your makeup will give a finished look without heavy foundation.

When using powder, pay attention to the differences between the types. Loose powder is used to set makeup, whereas compact powder is for touch ups over the course of the day or night. Be especially sure to set your foundation with loose powder in the summer and in warm climates. Unset foundation can become runny in warm weather. Powder which includes light sunscreen can help protect your face in hot weather. Powders can also be used to soften the edges of color if it has been applied too brightly.

With blush, always remember that "less is more." Apply blush along your cheekbone from the hairline downwards to prevent a clown like blob of color on the apple of the cheek. Do not apply it close to the nose, or use a shade darker than is needed to imply a faint coloring of the cheeks. Tap the excess off of your blush brush before applying it.

Another great make up tip for people with thinner lips is to wear light, frosty colors. They will cause the lips to look fuller. Vitaman E based lipsticks and lip protectors prevent cracking and dryness when wearing lipsticks. Regardless of what lipstick you use, lip liner will provide a smooth edge to your lips and prevent it from bleeding outside the area where you want it. Women over forty should avoid matte colors. A bit of shine makes the face look younger. Lip gloss applied voer a lipstick can also impart this shine.

And here's one final make up tip, you should avoid using very old cosmetics. Not only can makeup past its expiration date harbor bacteria, but it can deteriorate, no longer providing the look you want. Cycle your cosmetics every three to six months to prevent deterioration, smearing, and staining.

These makeup techniques will help you apply your own cosmetics in the most natural way. You can accent your best features and play down those you don't want to draw so much attention to. Proper use of good makeup techniques can help anyone look their best.

©2007

Back To Article Index