Ever since the days of ancient Egypt cosmetics have been used to accentuate ones natural beauty, used as art, or as an important part of an industry such as television and movies. Make-up is often viewed as a rite of passage in Western cultures and across the globe cosmetics can be a very important aspect of ceremonies. So whether you love to experiment with that pop of brightness on your lips or you’re a beginner, hopefully this list gives you a helpful tip you can use at home.
1. Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize!
You might be asking yourself what moisturizer has to do with make-up, and let me tell you, it’s super important. Moisturizer is an important step in any beauty regimen because it will keep your skin looking youthful and healthy by helping to fight fine lines and give that supple look. This step will help you start with a great base for your look.
A bonus tip from veteran make-up wearers.
2. Have your foundation professionally color-matched.
Let’s be honest, who among us has not stood in the make-up aisle completely flabbergasted wondering if you’re shade “toasted walnut,” “nude beige,” or somewhere closer to “ebony sheer.” All of the options can be really overwhelming, especially for someone just beginning to explore the vast world of cosmetics.
Foundation is the base for your whole look so it’s pretty crucial to get this step correct. Luckily many larger make-up retailers such as Ulta or Sephora will happily help you find that Holy Grail shade at no cost.
3. Find a Powder that’s right for you.
After foundation you’ll want to set with a powder, this will minimize shine and help your make-up last all day (or night!). Powders come in a range of shades, they can be matched to your foundation, they can be lighter or darker for contouring, or you can even a translucent powder. If you’re not comfortable color matching on your own, it’s a good idea to start with a good quality translucent powder. For this step you’ll want a big, fluffy brush to apply a light dusting of powder, with a more liberal pat on your shiniest areas.
4. Be daring – Experiment with your look!
Make-up is such a versatile world, it’s artistic, it’s fun, it’s empowering. Make-up can be whatever you need it to be so have fun and experiment. Have your eye on a metallic blue eyeliner? Life is short, try it. There is an endless number of looks just waiting to be sampled from soft and natural to nighttime glam.
Many people report that wearing make-up makes them feel more confident and it’s a great way to step outside your comfort zone and live a little. So next time you’re home on a Saturday night, think about pouring a glass of wine and pulling out all your make-up just to have a fun time and experiment with a new look.
5. Keep plenty of Q-tips or cotton buds on hand.
Everyone has a box of Q-tips stocked in their bathroom cabinets, right? But did you know they are a super efficient tool for make-up application? If you’ve ever had a slip of the hand that left you with mascara all over your nose or smudged your lipstick a touch, this handy little tip can be the saviour for your entire look. Cotton buds are small and soft, and perfect for getting in those tiny, delicate areas around your eyes, brows, and mouth, and do a stellar job at erasing little imperfections, applying minute details, and even smudging out your waterline for a gorgeous smoky eye.