When you walk into a room, be noticed for yourself rather than for the cosmetics being used. Applying cosmetics correctly is an art that begins with determining skin type and coloring. Find the right cosmetic product to enhance your best features and provide quality care.

Three Easy Steps to a Flawless Complexion

Have you ever felt that no matter what cosmetics you use, your makeup looks flawed and faded by lunchtime? It neednt be thanks to a host of great products a natural complexion is possible. The secret is applying and layering the right cosmetics.

1. Applying Cosmetics the Importance of Toner and Concealer

the anchor for cosmetics
makes the skin look smoother
prepares it for foundation
helps cosmetic products stay on longer
apply toner after cleansing
smooth all over the face
follow with concealer around the nose, on the eyelids, and underneath the eyes

Buy an oil-free product, with light-reflecting properties for a smooth finish; a pearlescent powder to lessen imperfections. Or one that contains many different shades to help reduce redness, uneven tone, and dark shadows.

2. Flatter with Foundation

apply base with a brush or sponge
start by the nose and smooth outward
try applying small amounts to begin with more can be added if necessary

There are products that claim to stay put for 16 hours without fading and contain oil-absorbers to keep the complexion fresh.

3. The Finish

for a healthy, natural look, use blush
pick a shade to match skin tone and coloring
apply in circular motion on cheeks
to get a rosier look, choose a cream blush and blend with the fingers

Products can be found that feature several shades in one compact. These can be swirled together and applied all over or individually on cheekbones and brow bone for a gentle effect. How about the offer of two iridescent powders that can be used as eye shadow or all-over highlighter with an attached applicator that is perfect for on-the-go touch-ups.

Deal with spots, blemishes or smudges by applying dusting powder. This sets a creamy texture for hiding dark areas.

Tips for the Lips

always keep conditioner on even when not wearing color
if dry or flaky, gently clean with a soft toothbrush to remove excess skin
lips should be as smooth as possible for the application of lipstick
begin by applying a bit of lip balm or cream
let this absorb while applying remainder of the cosmetics
now the lips are conditioned and ready
use a brush for better control

Rule of thumb - if lip color is strong keep the rest of your face soft, and vice versa. Choose one feature for the focus.

Eyes

Applying a thin layer of foundation or primer on the eyelids will help correct imperfections. Take your hair color as a guide.

blondes - creams and taupes
brunettes - mochas and chocolate browns
auburn or redhead - coppers, peaches, and reddish browns

or cool tones like pink and lavenders
gray hair - grays, soft purples, and blues

Technique - emphasize the crease line for depth

begin with the lightest color
dust over the entire eyelid
apply lightly from lash line to just beyond the crease
glide up to the brow bone
applicator will naturally lift off face

Now dust a medium shade in the crease line (something with a bit more depth than what went on originally). Extend slightly beyond the crease, up toward the brow bone. This adds depth to the eyes.

When you are finished applying cosmetics there should be no visible line where applications begin or end. Now dust the entire area with loose powder to help set and blend.

Add mascara and brow pencil, as needed. Find a long-wearing that defines curls and lengthens lashes without smudging, clumping or flaking. There are products that are safe for those wearing contact lens.

Last Important Tip

Watch for outdated cosmetics and replace as needed. Enjoy your look and have fun experimenting.