When it comes to applying makeup, it can sometimes seem like a bit of an art. Whether you are aiming for a natural look, or something a little more, applying makeup can seem like a dauntless task if you don’t know where to begin, and you may end up avoiding it all together. Makeup can make such a difference to your face, and it’s all about getting the balance right. Not only can makeup change your look, but it can change your mood altogether.
If you wake up feeling a little down, putting some simple makeup on can help you to feel better, and more uplifted, ready to slay the day! Many ladies actually use makeup for its feel good benefits alone! Once you start finding products which you like and that work for you, as well as how to apply them correctly – there will be no turning back.
With so many products out there, if you are a beginner you may not understand what each product’s individual purpose is, or even how to best apply it. Luckily, in today’s day and age there are hundreds, if not thousands of Youtube gurus out there who produce makeup tutorials all over the world. This means finding out about certain products has never been easier, and probably a lot easier than it was say 20 years ago. However, as a beginner you may not know exactly where to begin with it all.
Well, no need to look any further, as this article will include 10 easy to follow tutorials that you can follow including a best pick of Youtube tutorials to help you visualize the processes as much as possible. The article will be split into various sections of the makeup application stages, and provide product recommendations for each section of the face and makeup process, making it easier for you to focus on each one individually. By the end of this article you will be ready to apply makeup with ease!
Which look is right for me?
Perhaps you just want to enhance your natural features, or maybe try and create a look similar to one you have seen on another woman, or a celebrity that you admire. The best thing to do is have a look around and find out what you find is attractive. How would you like to look like at your best? Sometimes finding photos of certain makeup looks can help inspire you and give you some ideas of how you would like to do your own makeup looks.
Ultimately, it is down the the individual’s own taste. Some ladies may prefer a full-on face of makeup that takes over an hour to do, and others may prefer a makeup look that takes 10 minutes. Again this depends on you, and where you are going with this look. If you are going for an everyday look, then easier and quicker makeup routines are highly recommended. Keeping up with makeup trends is also quite a popular thing to do, as you can see how other girls are doing their makeup.
However, just because a certain trend is out doesn’t mean it will necessary look good on you. Some people want makeup to change their face completely, so it no longer resembles them, and others again just want to keep things simple.Therefore, knowing about makeup and how it works for you is the best way to begin in the makeup world. Once you find out what you like, you will never need to worry about it again.
The Base
The first section we are going to begin with in this article is the base, i.e. the face. What sort of base do you require? In terms of base we mean a foundation, BB cream or powder. In order to know this, the first thing you need to understand is your skin type. Do you have dry skin? oily? combinational or normal? Knowing this simple fact will help you to better shop for the right product for your specific skin, and it is usually the first thing any cosmetician will ask you when you are shopping for new cosmetics.
Once you have determined your skin type, the next thing to ask yourself is, which type of coverage do you prefer? Full coverage, medium or sheer. Full coverage is the more heavier foundation which aims to cover all skin imperfections, leaving your skin looking dreamy. It is perfect for full-face makeup looks, and when going to a special occasion for example. The only disadvantage of this foundation is it can tend to feel like you are wearing makeup as it is quite heavy on the skin.
Medium coverage is just that, and unlike full coverage, keeps it a little bit lighter on the face by still providing good coverage in terms of imperfections, but without giving you the ‘caked look’. A sheer coverage is the lightest of all, providing minimal coverage and an even-looking complexion rather than a covered one. Sheer coverage is perfect for those who are hoping to achieve the no-makeup look. An extra which can be included for the base is concealer, which is placed directly under the eyes.
So once you have determined which styles you feel are right for you, and found the right product, it is time to apply!
Depending on the exact product you choose, there can be a range of different application methods. Below are the main methods to apply foundation, as well as how NOT to apply foundation which should hopefully make it clear for you.
How to correctly apply a liquid foundation
What you need:
– Foundation
– Foundation brush/sponge/fingers
– Piece of tissue
Step 1: The first step is to cleanse your face nice and clean with some soap, so that it is ready for the makeup process. Before applying foundation, it is recommended to use a moisturizer to prepare the face and keep it moisturized. Leave the moisturizer to sink into the skin for a good 5 minutes before you begin applying any foundation. Some people like to take it a step further and apply a primer after the moisturizer. A primer helps to keep any foundation in place and stops it from smudging off the skin throughout the day.
Once your moisturizer is settled into the skin, you are ready to go. When applying foundation, you can either apply with a foundation brush, sponge or your hands. This depends on what you want to do or think feels best. Taking a little pea sized amount of the liquid, start by placing it on the T zone of your face, then your cheeks, and work outwards towards the neck.
The aim is to blend it in to the face as lightly and gently as possible, being careful not to rub it in too hard, as it will damage your skin. Simply work it in to the moisturized skin, and blend to cover any imperfections of the face. Tip: Apply your makeup joyfully, as if you are trying to create artwork!
This will trick you into making a really good job of it, rather than making it seem like a boring task. Once you feel you have enough coverage, take a small tissue and lightly pat it over the face. This helps to remove any excess product on the face, leaving you with a flawless application.
If you would like to see this process done by a pro, then check out the following video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OheZ-Rb71EY
How to correctly apply a powder foundation
What you need:
– Powder foundation
– Foundation brush/sponge/pad applicator
– Piece of tissue
Powder foundations are slightly different to liquids, and can be said to be relatively easier to apply in terms of the application process. Powders are made of soft, lightweight materials which blend easily onto the skin. Taking your powder, follow the same steps as with the liquid foundation, and cleanse thoroughly before applying some moisturizer and primer if desired.
Then, taking the powder, use a pad applicator if it is included with the powder, or you can even use a light brush. Simply start by brushing the powder onto your face in gentle sweeping motions, building coverage as you go. This can feel a lot more pleasant than it does applying a liquid, and is sometimes preferred as it can still offer the same coverage, yet feels a whole lot lighter.
With powder, however, it can be easy to quickly apply too much, and before you know it your face can go from young and dewy to a very caked look. Therefore the tip is less is more when applying. Once you have the ideal coverage, you can gently pat the face with a tissue, again to remove any excess product.
If you would like to see the powder process in action, check out the following video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1LKe519hEcM
How to correctly apply concealer
What you need:
– Concealer
– Concealer brush/sponge
Concealer is not a necessary step for everyone, and is more suited to those who wish to hide bags under eyes, or even to simply add a little brightness. Taking your concealer, carefully dab it under the eyes, and blend it in with your foundation. It is important to find a color which is slightly lighter than your skin tone, which will help to brighten up the eye. Of course something too light or too dark will be visible, so choose wisely! You can try using some testers at makeup counters, to find which shades fit best with your skin tone.
This video shows how to apply concealer, and is especially helpful for beginners: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WeOPQuaiL4U
The Eyes
The eyes are known as being the windows to your soul. Therefore it is important that they are kept in good condition, and that they look good! When it comes to makeup, the possibilities are endless, and there are thousands of products out there which can make any eye pop. Whether you have small, large or wide eyes, there is a makeup product out there which will do them justice!
When it comes to eyes, the makeup products which are mostly used on them are eyeshadow, mascara and eyeliner. Eyeshadows come in every color under the sun, and finding the perfect color is simply a case of trial and error. Mascara can do wonders for anyone’s eyes, and instantly make eyes bigger, and more awake. Eyeliner on the other hand is one of the more trickier products to apply as the brush is usually very fine, and a shaky hand can sometimes make you smudge it! We will provide a tutorial on how to apply eyeliner the easy way!
How to correctly apply eyeshadow
What you need:
– Eyeshadow palette
– Eyeshadow brushes
– Concealer
First of all, we will begin with eyeshadow application. Applying eyeshadow can be the easiest step in the world to the most difficult thing you have ever tried. This can be because of the thousands of looks you can achieve, and all the different colors and blending options possible. We will follow with the simplest method of applying eyeshadow, which will make it easier for someone at the beginner level.
Applying eyeshadow can easily be done using just your finger; however, if you want to be guaranteed it will last the whole day, using brushes are preferred. This means you can put on the correct amount, and blend it in properly.
Taking a basic light coral, or pink color, sweep your brush across the color and then dab any extra product on your hand. Then carefully apply it onto the eyelid. You can close the eye while applying if you prefer, but an open eye will allow you to see how it will sit when you are in your natural setting. The trick is again to use less and build it up as you go.
Be as light as possible as you sweep your brush over the eyeshadow, as it can quickly build up, to a point of no return! And you will need to wipe it off and begin again. Layers are key! Tip: sometimes, during the duration of the day, eyeshadow can easily crease, and our eyelids become moist. A top tip all makeup artists recommend is to apply a tiny bit of concealer on the eyelid before applying the eyeshadow. This will help to set the eyeshadow, and even bring the colour out a bit more.
Here is an eyeshadow video which is especially suited to beginners: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q9kVcrD8ci0
How to correctly apply mascara
What you need:
– Eyelash curlers (not compulsory)
– Mascara
Mascara has to be applied with a very gentle touch; any mistakes and you may accidentally end up poking your eye. It can easily happen, but with practice and the right technique, you will never do this again when applying mascara. Mascaras come in all different styles, and do lots of different functions. Some examples can be: false lash effect, long lasting effect and even waterproof mascara. They also come in a variety of colors, ranging from blue, brown, green and black. When you find a mascara that you like, here is how to apply it.
Eyelash curlers have been recommended here as they are a handy little tool that you can use to curl your lashes, pre-mascara. Sometimes, this little tool can save you even buying mascara as it curls them up enough for you, so that mascara may not be necessary.
However, if you want to use a curler, then simply curl your lashes beforehand, then taking your mascara, pull the wand out of the tube and holding the wand horizontally in line with your eyes, carefully sweep the eyelashes in an upward motion. Do it so the lashes lie on and cover the whole brush. This helps to distribute the product evenly across all of the lashes.
Repeat this process 5-6 times until you get enough product onto the lashes. You can apply as much as you desire, depending on the look you are trying to achieve. Just be careful not to go too far with this or you may end up with clumps in your lashes.
This can also sometimes be an issue when using cheaper brands of mascara, under $5 for example. The quality will actually harm your lashes, rather than do any good. Therefore it is recommended for beginners to get a good mascara, from perhaps Maybelline, or Rimmel, which aren’t too costly yet still provide a good product!
Here is a video which shares some good mascara tips especially for beginners:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TfxJCQfcMkk
How to correctly apply eyeliner
What you need:
– Eyeliner
– Tissue paper/something with a good edge
Now we move on to the tricky part, the eyeliner! This step can scare off most people altogether as they feel it is too difficult, or they give up trying. However, once you find the right technique, you will be able to apply it without a mirror! How to get to this stage, I hear you ask? Just like learning to ride a bike, practice practice and practice yet again. Sometimes we forget to practice makeup skills as we don’t feel they require it. However this is definitely the case when it comes to eyeliner. The more you do it, the more it won’t be a problem to you.
When applying eyeliner, it’s best to move as close as possible to the mirror you can get, or alternatively buy a mirror which features a super zoom glass. These are hands down, the best mirrors for achieving a flawless eyeliner look! Taking your chosen eyeliner, gently close your eye, and make dots with the eyeliner above the lid from the inside of the eyeline towards the end of the lash line.
By simply starting by dots rather than going straight ahead with a drawn line, you lose the risk of doing it wrong first time round. Then, taking the eyeliner you can start to join the line up bit by bit. If you do this correctly you will have a straight enough line which looks quite nice! After, if you want a flick at the end, this takes practice, and it can sometimes be difficult to get both eyes matching.
However the tip is to take something with a good edge, paper would be a good example, and placing the edge downwards in an angle at the edge of your eye, begin flicking the eyeliner brush outwards to form the flick.
If you would like to see a great way to apply eyeliner, then check out this video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DBVxiXCyRKo
The Brows
Nowadays, eyebrows have become one of the most important parts of any beauty routine. If your eyebrows are not right, then they have the chance to ruin your whole face. Their proportion should be just right, and in frame with the rest of the face. But where to begin if you have no experience caring for your brows?
Defining a shape is probably the best step to begin with. If you aren’t so sure, Benefit cosmetics have come up with a clever little tool which actually lets you virtually try and test different eyebrow styles and colors. Their ‘Brow try-on’ makes it so much easier to find what shape suits your individual face shape, and shows you how to achieve the look. Even better, the brow try-on recommends the exact products you need to carry out the job.
How to correctly fill in eyebrows
What you need:
– Eyebrow pencil
– Eyebrow kit
Once you have found the shape you like, simply draw in the brows using an eyebrow pencil, or using an eyebrow kit following the desired shape. To first make sure your eyebrows are in good shape, use a pair of tweezers to remove any sparse and outgrown hairs. Taking the eyebrow pencil in your hand, lightly run it over the eyebrow hairs in an upwards motion, like as if you were filling in any blank lines. The trick is to not lean too hard as you will risk making them look false! The lighter the touch, the more natural result you will have.
Simply continue this process across all of the eyebrow hairs, until you achieve the desired look. Using an eyebrow kit you will sometimes have an eyebrow powder and tiny applicator brush. Using this is basically the same method as the pencil, only you are brushing the product into the hairs to create the desired shape and effect.
If you feel you need extra help to achieve the perfect shape, some kits also come with eyebrow stencils which you can place onto your forehead, on top of the original brows and easily fill in to get the desired shape. Then simply remove the template to show your masterpiece! Anastasia Beverly Hills provide some good stencils.
This video shows exactly how to fill in brows for beginners: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tXt8pmBw94E
The Cheeks and Cheekbones
Last but not least, one of the most crucial part of the makeup process, involves the cheeks and cheekbones! Today, this is also a very popular step, where hundreds of brands compete to provide the best products possible for this part. This is the step in the process which gives you a little bit of color, and brightens your face up.
Doing it right will help to give you an overall fresh, healthy glow, and thus make you look healthier. Doing it wrong will give you an overly made up face, and perhaps a sun burned appearance. Therefore, without further adieu, here are the how-tos when it comes to the cheeks!
To give cheeks a little bit of life, for centuries women have added something known as ‘rouge’ to give themselves a pop of color. This technique has lasted for many, many years, and was originally done to make pale faces seem healthier than they actually were. Women used all kinds of products to give them that rosy cheek, from red wine to beetroot vinegar, before the first cosmetics actually were designed.
Finding the right color for you depends on your skin tone. A good starting point is to try some samples on your wrist at the makeup counters, in order to find one that you like and which goes nice with your color. Bronzer is also a popular makeup product in many makeup bags these days. Bronzer helps to add some warmth to the face, and can also help to contour the overall face shape to give the appearance of a slimmer face.
As well as this, highlighter is another favourite product which is now often used on the face. This does as the name suggests, and highlights specific areas of your face to increase the glow of your face. This can look especially nice on tanned skin when on vacation; however, many people enjoy using it so much they like to wear it daily!
How to correctly apply blush
What you need:
– Blusher
– Small blusher brush/ applicator
Applying blush is a very easy task to do. With a light touch, take your brush or applicator, and dab some of the product onto it. Then lightly dust any extra off, and giving your best smile, look into the mirror. Place the blush directly over the round parts of your cheek, or the points above your smile. This is the easiest way to know exactly where blush should be placed.
Sweep the product in small upwards swishes on each cheek until you get a good amount of color on there. Be careful not to put on too much or you risk taking it to the level of a clown, and you don’t want that! Some like to take the blush right up towards the cheekbone, but again it depends on what you like.
If you would like to discover the best way to apply blush, check this helpful and simple tutorial out below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AHNM9adQpSQ
How to correctly apply bronzer
What you need:
– Bronzer & Highlighter
– Bronzing brush
Finally, a little bronzer can help bring some sunshine to any face. If you are looking to warm up the face, bronzer can do just that! Taking a bronzer brush, swipe some powder onto the bristles and then press the brush onto the back of your hand to remove any excess. Making a pout, follow your natural cheekbone, and lightly brush the product upwards towards the ears.
If you prefer, you can also dab the powder on gently, and then begin blending it along your cheekbone. This helps to create a subtle shade which slims the overall appearance of the face. It is recommended to do this step with as little product as possible, and then build it up as you go so to avoid harsh lines. Doing it correctly will give you a nice slender appearance, and help you look great!
This video is perfect for beginners, and shows how to bronze with both liquid bronzer and powder. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DUSMwNlyoe0
How to correctly apply highlighter
Taking a separate brush for the highlighter, the best thing to do is look where you have placed the bronzer, and aim to highlight the area of face directly above that. This is the process known as ‘contouring’ and the two colors together help to create that flawless jawline appearance, thanks to the dark and light contrast. Using the brush, carefully run it over the highlighter block, wiping off any excess. This product is usually quite light, so feel free to use a little more when you apply.
Carefully swish the highlighter over the area above the cheekbone up towards the head, and anywhere else you feel a little highlight would look nice. This can include over the temple of the head, over the bridge of the nose, at the edge of the eyebrow bone, and across the chin. A small amount can also cleverly be placed under the bronzed area, towards the jowls. This increases the sharpness of the contour.
A video which shows the highlighting process, can be seen here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zTSjKPr2b2g
Conclusion
So there you have it! Some simple techniques that you can follow and which can help you to achieve your first make up look! Applying makeup is not so difficult once you know how to do the basics. The best thing you can do in order to become accustomed to wearing makeup on a daily basis is to practice these techniques as much as you can, so that it easily becomes second nature to you, rather than something you want to run from.
Hopefully this article has helped you to understand the simple methods of how to apply makeup, and has given you a little inspiration to start trying some new techniques on yourself! Good luck!
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