Makeup and Beauty Tips

The proper use and application of makeup can be intimidating for some. When makeup is used properly it should enhance a person's features, and not overpower and distract from them. Aside from trying to figure out what types and brands of makeup to buy, appropriate techniques for applying makeup need to be taken into consideration.

Mascara

There are differing brands and formulas of mascara to choose from for example, thickening, waterproof, lengthening and clump-free. Once you have determined what consistency would work best, you need to learn how to apply it correctly. Start at the base of your lashes pulling the mascara wand up and through the lashes to the tips, and repeat several times. A good tip for avoiding clumps is to shimmy the mascara brush left to right during the application of your final coat.

Eyeliner

The most common types of eyeliner come in liquid, pencil and shadow. Eyeliner comes in a variety of colors from neutrals to bright colors. One of the easiest and safest ways to apply eyeliner is to start from the inner corner of your eye to the outer with your eyes closed. Trace the shape of your eye while lining the upper lid. You can line your lower lid if you choose for a drastic effect, but often times it is unnecessary.

Eye shadow

One of the most important things about choosing an eye shadow is choosing the right color. It is best to choose a color that will accentuate the color of your eyes; colors that do not match your eye color but actually contrast them will usually give this effect. Darker colors are usually used on the eyelid, with lighter colors on the eye-crease and brow bone. Blend eye-shadow well to avoid clumps and cracking.

Blush

Blush application should be more subtle than not. For an easy application, smile and start applying blush on the apple of your cheeks sweeping in an upward motion toward your cheekbone. The key is for your cheeks to look naturally flushed, without looking clown-like and obvious.

Lips

One common problem when applying lipstick is to get the lip color to last. One trick to help with this is to use lip-liner and to apply it to the whole area of the lips as well. Use a matching shade of lipstick and apply a coating over the lip-liner coat to prevent lip color from bleeding.