Wouldn’t it be nice if you could have your makeup applied by a professional every single day of your life? Alas, unless you’re model or TV star, chances are that’s not happening. But flawless makeup doesn’t have to be a far-flung fantasy. This month, Ariel Lewis offers her best tips for avoiding common makeup mistakes.
Easy on the Blush
Blush application can be tricky. How do you apply enough color to create a healthy glow without looking like a circus clown? Try holding your blush brush at the end of its handle instead of close to the tip. You’ll have less control over the brush, but will achieve a softer, more natural look.
Conceal Carefully
Let your natural beauty shine through by applying concealer conservatively. Aim to get the most coverage with the least amount of product. Always apply eye cream before your concealer to avoid a thick-looking application. Use your finger in a tapping motion to build thin layers of concealer under your eyes and across the bridge of your nose. Touch up with a stippling brush for an airbrushed look.
Combine Brow Shades
Whether you’re blond, brunette or a redhead, everyone has multiple shades in their natural brow color. For natural looking brows, combine cool shades like gray, light taupe and ash blond and warm shades like auburn, espresso brown and deep taupe. Use the deeper shade to darken the entire brow, and the lighter shade to add softness. Apply brow color with an angled brush.
Quench Thirsty Skin
Applying makeup to skin that’s not well-hydrated can look cakey and overdone. Be sure to use sunscreen and facial moisturizer before primers or foundations.
Change With the Seasons
Switch foundations twice a year, selecting a paler shade for the winter months and a darker shade to complement sun-kissed skin-tones in the spring and summer. If you tend toward dry skin, opt for a moisturizing formula for winter wear. A matte-textured formula will prevent over-shine during the summer.
Ariel Lewis (above) is the owner of Airbrush Makeup by Ariel and the Alist. For information, visit ariellewis.com.