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HOW TO APPLY MAKEUP: STEP BY STEP FOR BEGINNERS

The world of makeup can be dazzling and daunting, especially for the uninitiated. Brushes, palettes, powders – it’s enough to make anyone’s head spin! But fear not, aspiring makeup mavens! This guide is your key to unlocking the secrets of beauty, one step at a time. Forget complicated rituals and intimidating jargon. We’ll break down the application process into simple, easy-to-follow steps, perfect for anyone starting their makeup journey. Whether you’re craving a natural glow or a glamorous statement look, you’ll find your perfect canvas right here.

WASH YOUR FACE CLEAN

Cleaning your face before applying makeup is an essential step in any skincare and beauty routine. The process of cleansing serves as a crucial foundation for achieving a flawless makeup application. When you clean your face, you remove excess oil, dirt, and impurities that may have accumulated throughout the day or night. This not only ensures a smooth canvas for makeup but also helps prevent clogged pores and potential skin issues. Clean skin allows makeup products to adhere better, promoting a more even and long-lasting application. 

Moreover, a clean face enhances the effectiveness of skincare products by allowing them to penetrate the skin more effectively. In essence, incorporating a thorough face-cleansing ritual into your daily routine is a fundamental practice for maintaining healthy, radiant skin and achieving optimal makeup results.

APPLY MOISTURE

Just as you diligently remove your old makeup, it is equally important to cleanse your face. Employ a gentle facial cleanser to delicately cleanse your skin, taking approximately one minute to massage and eliminate bacteria and dead skin cells from your pores. Conclude the process by rinsing with cool water. Complete your skincare routine by applying a facial moisturizer, suitable for all skin types, to ensure your skin remains hydrated and nourished. This simple yet effective routine contributes to maintaining a fresh and healthy complexion.

PRIM YOUR FACE

Before applying any makeup, it’s essential to use a face primer. The primary role of a face primer is to elevate the overall look of your makeup and extend its durability. Applying the primer with your fingers, distribute a small amount evenly across your entire face. The primer not only enhances the staying power of your makeup throughout the day but is particularly crucial if you anticipate sweating, running, or engaging in activities that might otherwise cause your makeup to wear off or smudge. In such cases, a primer becomes a necessary step in ensuring your makeup maintains its integrity and longevity.

PUT ON A COAT OF FOUNDATION

Various foundation types exist, but their application generally follows the same principles. Liquid, cream, and powder foundations all aim to achieve a more uniform complexion, providing a smooth base for additional makeup. To apply foundation, utilize a foundation brush or a damp beauty sponge, ensuring even coverage extends to your neck and earlobes if needed. Select a foundation shade that closely matches your natural skin tone, avoiding shades that are significantly darker or lighter. Harmonizing your foundation with your chest and neck prevents any stark contrasts, creating a seamless transition between your face and the rest of your body. Avoid a harsh line along your jawline, as it results in an unnatural and unblended finish. 

For stubborn blemishes, a concealer brush can be employed to add a touch of extra foundation. While liquid foundation can be applied with fingertips, it’s worth noting that this method may introduce bacteria, potentially leading to future breakouts.

APPLY SOME CONCEALER

Applying concealer is a transformative step in perfecting your makeup look. Concealer serves as a versatile tool, effectively camouflaging imperfections such as blemishes, dark circles, and uneven skin tones. Using a concealer brush or your fingertips, dot a small amount of concealer onto the areas that require extra coverage. Gently blend the product into your skin for a seamless and natural finish. Concealer not only provides an added layer of coverage but also brightens and highlights specific areas, enhancing your overall complexion. It’s a quick and efficient way to achieve a more refreshed and radiant appearance, contributing to a polished and flawless makeup finish. 

Whether you’re aiming for a subtle everyday look or a more glamorized finish, the strategic application of concealer can make a significant difference in achieving a refined and well-balanced makeup result.

SET FOUNDATION AND CONCEALER

While optional, incorporating a setting powder into your makeup routine can significantly enhance longevity and prevent creasing. To set your foundation and concealer in place, employ a damp beauty sponge to pick up loose powder, pressing it into the under-eye area. Subsequently, gently sweep away any excess with a brush. For an all-over set, use a large, fluffy brush to apply a translucent or matching setting powder across your entire face. 

This step proves especially beneficial when using liquid foundation, aiding in setting the foundation and eliminating any unwanted shine or tackiness, ensuring a lasting and flawless makeup finish.

APPLY A HIGHLIGHTER

This versatile product is designed to accentuate and illuminate specific areas of the face, providing a natural, healthy glow. Using a highlighter brush or your fingertips, apply the product to the high points of your face where light naturally hits—such as the tops of your cheekbones, the bridge of your nose, the cupid’s bow, and the brow bone. The subtle shimmer of the highlighter captures and reflects light, creating a flattering and dewy effect. Whether you prefer a subtle, everyday glow or a more intense and glamorous shine, the strategic application of highlighter enhances your facial features and adds a touch of dimension to your overall makeup look. 

ADD CONTOURING

Contouring is like using makeup magic to define and shape your face. It involves applying darker and lighter makeup in specific areas to highlight your features and create shadows. To contour, use a contour product that is a bit darker than your skin tone to emphasize areas like the hollows of your cheeks, the sides of your nose, and your jawline. Blend it well to avoid harsh lines. 

Then, use a lighter shade on areas you want to stand out, like the tops of your cheekbones and down the center of your nose. Blending is key to make it look natural and enhance your face’s natural structure, giving you a sculpted and polished appearance. Contouring is a fun way to play with makeup and accentuate your best features!

APPLY LITTLE BLUSH

The last touch in getting your face ready is to apply blush to your cheeks. Each person’s cheeks naturally have a hint of color, but it differs from one individual to another. Use a big brush to gently apply blush to the apples of your cheeks—the round part that appears when you smile. Keep the application light; add just enough to enhance the natural color that would naturally appear. This step adds a subtle and healthy flush to your complexion, completing the preparation of your face for the next stages of your makeup routine.

FILL EYEBROWS

Adding eyebrows to your makeup routine is like giving your face a finishing touch. Eyebrows frame your eyes and enhance your overall look. To fill in your eyebrows, use a pencil, powder, or gel that matches your natural hair color. With gentle strokes, follow the natural shape of your brows to create definition and fullness. Be careful not to go too heavy; the goal is to enhance, not overpower. 

Well-groomed eyebrows can bring balance to your face and make your eyes stand out. Experiment with different products and find the method that suits you best. Adding eyebrows is a simple yet impactful step that completes your makeup and gives your face a polished and put-together appearance.

APPLY EYESHADOW PRIMER

Using an eyeshadow primer is another optional step, but it significantly contributes to achieving natural eye makeup looks that last longer. If you’ve skipped this, you might have observed your eyeshadow fading or becoming oily, accumulating in the creases of your eyelids over time. Apply the eyeshadow primer with your fingertip, blending it seamlessly from the base of your lashes to the top of your crease. Setting it with a powder creates an ideal foundation for seamlessly blending your eyeshadow, ensuring a prolonged and flawless appearance for your natural eye makeup looks.

PUT ON YOUR EYESHADOW

Enhancing your makeup with eyeshadow offers versatility, allowing you to choose between subtle neutrals or vibrant, bold colors. For either option, you’ll need two complementary eyeshadows: a lighter shade and a darker one.

Begin by dipping your eyeshadow brush into the lighter shade, tapping off any excess product. Apply this light shade across your entire eyelid, starting from the lash line and extending just above the crease.

Next, dip the brush into the darker color, ensuring to tap off excess product. Concentrate this darker shade at the outer corner of your eye, slightly above the lash line. Sweep the darker color along the crease, just below the brow bone, stopping around the center of your eyelid to avoid darkening the inner corners.

To seamlessly blend the two shades, use a clean shadow brush. For a more intensified look, you can reapply the darker shadow. This straightforward technique adds depth and dimension to your eyes, whether you’re aiming for a subtle enhancement or a more striking appearance.

APPLY EYELINER

This versatile cosmetic tool comes in various forms, including pencil, liquid, and gel, allowing for diverse looks ranging from subtle to dramatic. To begin, choose the type of eyeliner that suits your desired outcome and personal preference. For a more natural look, opt for a soft pencil and gently line the upper lash line, smudging slightly for a softer effect. Liquid eyeliner is ideal for achieving precision and creating bold, defined lines. Whether you prefer a classic winged look or a modern graphic design, mastering the technique takes practice. Remember to steady your hand, start with thin strokes, and gradually build up the intensity. Experimenting with different eyeliner styles can elevate your overall makeup routine, enhancing your eyes and expressing your unique sense of style.

FINISH OFF WITH MASCARA

Completing your eye makeup routine, the finishing touch is the application of mascara, a game-changer that adds volume and length to your lashes. Once your eyeliner is perfectly applied, carefully curl your lashes if desired, then reach for your favorite mascara. Wiggle the wand from the base of your lashes to the tips, ensuring each lash is coated for a defined and dramatic effect. For an extra boost, consider applying a second coat after the first one dries. 

Mascara not only opens up your eyes but also beautifully frames them, creating a captivating and polished look. With the right mascara, your eyes will be the focal point of your makeup, providing the perfect finishing flourish to your overall beauty routine.

SMOOTH OUT LIPS

Prior to applying any lip products, consider using lip balm, primer, or sealer to enhance their longevity and vibrancy. Not only does this step contribute to a more enduring color payoff, but it also ensures the comfort of soft, supple lips throughout the day. Investing in a quality balm or salve serves the dual purpose of preventing lip flakiness and providing a smooth canvas for your chosen lip products.

Incorporating this simple yet effective pre-lipstick routine is a key step in achieving a flawless and comfortable finish to your overall makeup look.

APPLY LIP LINER

Outline your lips using a lip liner that complements either your natural lip shade or the color you intend to apply. Ensure your lip liner is sharpened and trace along the natural contours of your lips. Once outlined, proceed to fill in your lips with the pencil. This technique not only defines the lip shape but also evens out the color and texture, providing a smooth base for the effortless application of gloss or lipstick later on.

APPLY LIPSTICK OR LIP GLOSS 

Enhancing your lips with the perfect shade of lipstick or the glossy allure of lip gloss is a transformative step in any makeup routine. The application process can be both an art and a personal expression, allowing you to play with colors and textures to complement your overall look. When applying lipstick, precision is key. Begin by outlining your lips with a matching lip liner to define their shape. Then, carefully fill in the color, ensuring even coverage. For a bolder appearance, you can experiment with vibrant hues, while subtle nudes provide a classic touch. 

On the other hand, lip gloss offers a more lustrous and understated effect. Its glossy finish adds a delightful sheen, making your lips appear fuller and more radiant. Whether you opt for a matte lipstick or a shiny lip gloss, choosing the right product for the occasion can elevate your style and leave a lasting impression. So, dive into the world of lip makeup, experiment with different shades, and let your lips become the canvas for your self-expression.

SETTING SPRAY

The ideal conclusion to your makeup routine can be a setting spray or setting powder. Achieving a makeup look that lasts throughout the day without any unwanted greasing, creasing, or shine requires the use of a high-quality setting solution.

Setting sprays cater to all skin types and are versatile enough to set various makeup looks, whether it’s a light coverage or a full-face masterpiece. By keeping your makeup firmly in place, a setting spray minimizes the need for reapplication, ensuring your makeup remains impeccable for extended periods.

Applying setting spray is akin to the finishing touch hairspray provides to your hairstyle. Hold the bottle approximately 8 inches from your face and lightly spritz a few times to ensure even coverage. For comprehensive coverage, start by spritzing in an X shape across your face, followed by a T shape for thorough protection from forehead to chin. Invest in a quality setting solution to elevate the longevity and flawless finish of your makeup.

CONCLUSION

For beginners, the step-by-step guide provided here serves as a solid foundation, offering insights into each aspect of the makeup routine. From skincare preparation to the final touches of mascara and setting spray, this comprehensive guide aims to empower individuals to take their initial steps into the world of cosmetics. Remember, makeup is a form of self-expression, and the key is to embrace creativity, practice, and find what works best for you. As you hone your skills and experiment with different techniques, the process becomes not just a routine but a delightful exploration of your unique beauty. 

HOW TO DO MAKEUP FOR BRIDE: A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO DIY WEDDING MAKEUP

A wedding day is a moment people daydream about and meticulously plan well in advance before meeting the person they will eventually marry. When the moment finally arrives, numerous aspects need careful consideration and execution, including selecting the ideal make up for bride. This process involves various steps, such as preparing the skin for a radiant appearance, deciding on the makeup artist, and scheduling time for a trial-run application (or two). It also entails mastering the art of applying makeup that complements the desired look for the bride on her wedding day.

DO A RESEARCH

The internet is brimming with beauty inspiration for your wedding day. If you’re uncertain about the kind of look you want, initiate some research. Explore your favorite celebrity’s latest red carpet appearances through a search engine or visit a professional makeup artist’s Instagram page to peruse photos of their clients.

You can also turn to TikTok or YouTube for comprehensive tutorials that you can recreate. Kim suggests identifying someone with similar facial features for a more personalized guide. Following makeup trends that don’t compliment your face may result in an awkward appearance. Don’t replicate a look just because it’s trending online. Instead, ensure that you genuinely like the chosen style.

CONSIDER YOUR THEME

Your final appearance will be significantly shaped by your overall aesthetic. Prior to applying your makeup, it’s crucial to decide whether a natural, sun-kissed glow, or a blend of both aligns better with you and your event. Taking into account your color scheme, floral decorations, venue, and ambiance. Aligning your makeup with the overarching theme enhances the harmonious and elegant atmosphere of your wedding day.

DETERMINE THE RIGHT SHADES

To achieve a smoother end result, it’s essential to determine which color will best complement your skin tone, whether it’s a warm bronze tone or a cool blue tone. Attention should be paid to the importance of finding the right shade for your skin, suggesting the possibility of mixing different shades to create the perfect combination. Instead of relying on guesswork, consider seeking advice from a professional who can determine the color that best suits your skin tone.

STAY OUT OF THE SUN

In the countdown to your wedding day, one crucial piece of beauty advice is to stay out of the sun. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can lead to skin damage, including sunburn, premature aging, and uneven skin tones, all of which might affect your desired wedding day look. To maintain a radiant and flawless complexion, it’s advisable to minimize sun exposure in the weeks leading up to the big day. Consider using sunscreen with a high SPF, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade whenever possible. By taking these precautions, you can help ensure that your skin looks its best and remains picture-perfect for your wedding, allowing you to confidently showcase your natural beauty on this special occasion.

PRACTICE MAKEUP FREQUENTLY

In the buildup to your wedding, one valuable beauty tip is to practice your makeup frequently. Regularly experimenting with different looks allows you to refine and perfect the ideal style that enhances your features and complements your wedding theme. Schedule trial runs to familiarize yourself with the application process, ensuring that your chosen makeup look not only suits your preferences but also stands up to the demands of the long-awaited day.

Frequent practice not only builds your confidence in achieving the desired outcome but also enables you to identify any potential challenges and address them well in advance. With each practice session, you’ll gain valuable insights into the products and techniques that work best for you, ensuring that you step into your wedding day with the expertise to create a stunning and long-lasting makeup look.

BOOK A VIRTUAL APPOINTMENT

In the modern landscape of wedding preparations, booking a virtual appointment has become an invaluable step, especially in the era of convenience and technology. Prior to your wedding, consider scheduling virtual appointments with key vendors, such as your wedding planner, photographer, or even beauty professionals. These virtual consultations provide a convenient and efficient way to discuss details, share ideas, and make crucial decisions without the need for in-person meetings. 

Whether it’s finalizing the event timeline, reviewing photography preferences, or discussing your desired bridal look, virtual appointments allow for seamless communication from the comfort of your own space. Embracing this digital approach not only streamlines the planning process but also accommodates busy schedules, ensuring that every detail is meticulously addressed, and your vision for the perfect wedding day is brought to life.

PREP YOUR SKIN

On your wedding day, stick with your tried-and-true skincare routine! A clean, familiar canvas is key to achieving natural, beautiful makeup. Skip experimenting with new products and simply cleanse, moisturize (lightly!), and gently exfoliate (if you normally do). Leave any blemishes alone unless you have a trusted spot treatment, and you’re all set for a picture-perfect complexion.

CHOOSE FAMILIAR PRODUCT

When it comes to your wedding day, selecting familiar makeup products is key. The familiarity of these products offers a sense of comfort and confidence since you already know how they perform on your skin. Opting for tried-and-true makeup items ensures that you avoid any potential surprises or adverse reactions that could occur from experimenting with new products. By sticking with the cosmetics you are familiar with, you can trust that they will provide the desired results and enhance your natural beauty. It’s essential to feel at ease and radiate confidence on your special day, and relying on familiar makeup products plays a significant role in achieving that peace of mind.

HOW TO DIY YOUR OWN BRIDAL MAKEUP

STEP 1: PREP YOUR SKIN

Whether you’re applying your makeup on your own or relying on a professional, on your wedding day, start by washing your face and applying a light moisturizer. Stick to your regular skincare routine; now is not the moment for drastic changes. If you usually exfoliate, choose a gentle exfoliating cleanser instead of a harsh scrub. Address any blemishes by lightly dabbing on an appropriate product like Visine, but avoid unnecessary interventions. The goal is to have a clean and soft canvas, providing the perfect base for achieving naturally beautiful skin with your makeup.

Consider your skin’s undertones, whether they lean towards cool or warm, when selecting colors that both match and complement. To identify your undertone, try a simple trick. Place a piece of silver and a piece of gold jewelry on the back of your hand. If the gold appears to blend seamlessly, you likely have warm undertones. Conversely, if the silver seems to harmonize better, you probably have cool undertones.

STEP 2: KNOW THAT PRIMER IS REQUIRED

From the moment you start applying your makeup until you bid farewell to your guests, a multitude of events will unfold. To make sure your makeup withstands the ceremony, dancing, tears, and toasts, consider incorporating a primer into your routine. While occasional touch-ups may still be necessary, they will be significantly reduced. Moreover, a primer serves to even out fine lines, and wrinkles, and conceal open pores. Apply a small amount after moisturizing, but before your foundation, ensuring even coverage across your face and eyelids. This sets the stage for a flawless base for all that follows.

STEP 3: APPLY FOUNDATION

For those with a cool undertone, seek out foundations with a rosier, redder, or blue base. If your undertone leans warm, opt for a foundation with a yellow or golden base. To verify if the shade is suitable, apply a small amount on the center of your lower jawline using a Q-tip. If it seamlessly blends in, you’ve found the right match.

Apply your foundation in thin layers, starting from the center of your face and blending outward with a foundation brush. Ensure a seamless finish, paying particular attention to blending beneath your jaw and along your neck to avoid visible lines. Avoid caking on the foundation, as it can give an overdone appearance and may lead to smearing or streaking.

STEP 4: ADD CONCEALER 

Applying concealer before the foundation can lead to much of it rubbing away during the foundation blending process. To address red areas or dark circles, use a concealer brush to apply a liquid concealer, matching your skin tone or going one shade lighter, to problematic areas. Dot the concealer and gently pat the brush against your skin to spread it. If needed, use a makeup sponge dampened with water to blend the concealer further.

For concealing blemishes, start by applying foundation, followed by concealer, and set it with powder. If the blemish is still visible, add more concealer and powder. Ensure you pat the concealer onto the blemish rather than rubbing to achieve a seamless finish.

STEP 5: APPLY HIGHLIGHTER

Highlighter might not be a staple in everyone’s makeup collection, but its purpose is to enhance specific facial features, making eyes appear larger and adding a radiant, youthful dewy look. However, using too much or a formulation with sparkle or glitter can lead to photo disasters, so apply it with a light touch. Highlighters are available in both liquid and powder forms.

When using a liquid highlighter, apply it with a brush after your foundation, forming a check mark shape. Begin near your inner eye, angle down toward your nostril, and then move up your cheekbone, blending toward your temple. Repeat the process above your brows, down the center of your nose, on the center of your forehead, and on your chin.

For powder highlighter, apply it after powdering and brush it under your brows, lightly in the corner of your eyes, and on the tops of your cheekbones. Avoid using powder highlighter under your eyes or over your mouth to prevent a sweaty appearance in photos.

STEP 6: SET YOUR BASE

Now, you face a decision. You can either opt for a cream blush instead of a powder blush or set your base with powder. If you choose the latter, begin by using a translucent powder to set your base and manage any shine. When it comes to powder, remember that less is more; aim for a luminous look rather than a heavy one. With a medium-sized brush, lightly dust over your forehead, the sides of your nose, and on your chin.

Following this, apply a powder bronzer that’s a shade or two darker than your foundation. Brush it in the shape of a 3 on both sides of your face. Begin at your hairline, move down the side of your face, then under your cheekbone, back to the side of your face, and finally below your jaw.

Keep pressed powder handy for those moments when certain areas shine and need a quick dab before a photo or while in the restroom.

STEP 7: BRING COLOR TO YOUR EYES

Wedding experts typically advise against a heavily dramatic eye, suggesting instead the use of eyeliners in shades other than black, along with paler or muted eye shadows that complement your eye color. Highlighters can also be applied to create the illusion of larger eyes. Experiment with brown, grey, and green eyeliners, applying them to both your upper and lower eyelids to enhance your eyes. For a longer-lasting effect, use a cream eye shadow on your eyelids, reserving powder for the crease of your eye. Apply a powder highlighter in the corners of your eyes and under your brow.

Consider the following color recommendations based on your eye color: bronze shades for green eyes, mocha for hazel eyes, navy and dark brown for blue eyes, and purples and grays for brown eyes. If you want to line your eyes with eye shadow, dampen an eyeliner brush with water and brush it into the eye shadow for a defined look.

STEP 8: ADD MASCARA

Given that tears are likely, it’s essential to use waterproof mascara for your wedding day. If you’re not accustomed to wearing false eyelashes regularly, your wedding day is not the ideal time to start. Instead, ensure you have a reliable eyelash curler, a volumizing mascara, and a lengthening mascara. Prior to applying mascara, curl your lashes for added lift. When applying mascara, begin at the root of your eyelashes and wiggle the wand from side to side as you move up to the top. Opt for black mascara, as it complements everyone.

Complete your eye makeup by framing your face with a brow powder slightly darker than your natural color. Brush it along the natural line of your eyebrows, working outward toward the end of your eyes. This final touch will enhance your overall look on your special day.

STEP 9: CREAT LIPS

Much like your facial skin, well-moisturized lips are crucial before applying makeup to prevent dryness or cracks that may emphasize lines once color is added. To achieve this, use a lip hydrator, allowing it to absorb for a couple of minutes before applying color. Select a shade that complements your blush and consider the following tips. While many lipsticks claim lasting hours, opting for a lip stain is a more reliable choice on your wedding day.

For fair skin with cool undertones, consider nude, light mocha, and light mauve. If you have warm undertones, explore sand, nude peach, or shell, steering clear of bright pinks, dark bronzes, and deep mochas. If your skin tone is medium with cool undertones, opt for rosy pink, pomegranate, or cranberry; for warm undertones, go with bronze, copper, and cinnamon, avoiding nudes. Deep skin with cool undertones can experiment with raisin, wine, or ruby red, while warm undertones may prefer honey, ginger, or a coppery bronze, avoiding shades close to orange.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, mastering the art of bridal makeup involves careful consideration and skill. These 8 tips provide valuable insights to help you become the most beautiful bride on your special day. Remember, when it comes to achieving a flawless finish, exploring techniques like air brush make up can elevate your bridal look to new heights. With attention to detail and a touch of creativity, you’re sure to radiate confidence and beauty as you walk down the aisle on your unforgettable day.