Makeup 101

I think when it comes to makeup, a little knowledge goes a long way. Just a few tips can help your makeup look ten times better. I've listed a few things I've picked up along the way, even if you only used one of them that you don't already, you could save that friend saying something.

Basic rules I follow:

Brushes brushes brushes. Unless you are using it for a specific effect, get rid of the sponge applicator that might come with your eyeshadow compact. Get yourself some quality brushes. It might feel like a waste of $40 for a set, but its really an investment. Trust me.



Always apply creams/liqiuds before powders. This might seem kind of obvious after you hear it, but it also includes eye pencil, which you should do before you powder your face if you're going to set your foundation.
Creams are; liquid foundations, concealers, eye pencil, brow pencil, cream blushes and cream shadows.
Powders are; powder foundations, translucent powders, blushes, eye shadows and bronzers.


Mascara always goes on last. If you've forgotten something on your eyes, its too late after mascara, you'll end up putting shadow in your mascara which will dull it, you'll need to re-apply mascara and it will go all clumpy.

<---Did you know that Great Lash Mascara by Maybelline is apparently the best selling mascara in the world? I've owned about 5 of these and I think they're great. (go Big W/Kmart for cheap prices)

Tip: As you apply your mascara do a slight zig zag motion with the wand as you move it up your lashes, this coats the sides of your lashes and the tops, all in one go. Only do a small motion, enough to hit the "sides" is plenty.

The last thing I can say about basics, is don't be afraid to experiment before you go out for an occassion. Lots of people will say you shouldn't in case you stuff it up, but my philosphy is that if you don't go the whole hog before something you want to look good for, you'll never give it a proper chance at another time.

Who is ever going to think to themselves on a quiet night after work "I might practice making up my face tonight" You've got nowhere to go when you get it right and look gorgeous!
The trick is to just start early, keep your cleanser/makeup remover handy and don't be afraid to take it all off and start again if you stuff it up. I can't tell you how many times I've done my eye makeup and ended up being too heavy handed, so I just take it off and start again. The end result will look better than if you just try to salvage a mishap.