Make-up is like paint for the face. It is a creative expression that says something about how you feel about yourself. Learn how to apply your make-up in 4-steps with this post and look your best at any age.
1) Prepare the canvas
The first step in every painting job is to apply a primer to the canvas! Regardless of your skin type, preparation is key to a successful make-up application. A good primer fills in the cracks and pores and provides a smoother finish and longer wear-time! First Aid’s Coconut Smoothie Moisturizing Primer is fabulous. I haven’t found anything better as far as sealing the cracks!
Look for skin-replenishing ingredients like Hyaluronic acid, glycolic acid, ceramides, and glycerin are excellent choices for both dry and oily complexions. Essential fatty acids like jojoba, rosehip, and grape seed oils are packed with good for your skin ingredients. 
e.l.f. has a series of primers that get high marks from BeautyPedia. I have used the Hydrating Primer, which impressed me. See the complete range of primers; there is a formula that is right for your skin type,
I like mixing e.l.f.’s, antioxidant serum with my Paula’s Choice sunscreen for a boost of moisturizer, and some extra antioxidants, including vitamin C, E, and Niacinamide. Avoid mixing oil-based products like e.l.fs Nourishing Facial Oil with sunscreens minimizes the effectiveness of the sunscreen.
2) How to Apply your Make-Up in 4 Steps; Apply the foundation
Unless you have a lot of scarring or scary birthmarks, you probably don’t need to be wearing a heavy foundation. The rule of thumb is “less is more” after a certain age, so it is a good idea to transition to a lightweight tinted moisturizer, BB, CC cream, or serum foundation. If you wonder about the difference between BB and CC creams, read the article: BB or CC cream on Paul’s Choice.
I switched to a tinted moisturizer years ago and have tried many brands, including Bobbie Brown, Laura Mercier, and MAC, all excellent choices. One of the benefits of purchasing department store brands is that it’s easier to get the correct color match than buying drugstore options. It is a good idea to check their return policy. If it doesn’t work out, you can return the unused product. I know Ulta and most department stores will accept returns on products if you are not satisfied with the result. I have since downgraded to e.l.f Beautifully Bare serum foundation, a drugstore gem that works for me just as well and is significantly cheaper. It does take more effort and trial and error to find an excellent drugstore brand, so I rely on BeautyPedia for their professional advice.
Tools of the trade
The type of application tools you will need to apply your foundation will depend on the type of product you use. Apply liquid and cream foundations with a brush or sponge for powder formulas. Whatever your foundation is, it may take some experimentation before finding the perfect application tool and technique.
You don’t have to spend the bank for a decent tool. I admit I have bought the BeautyBlender”. I was curious, so I did check it out, and It is an excellent sponge, but I don’t believe it is worth 20 dollars. In any case, I use a liquid and find e.l.f’s buffing brush works great with their Beautifully Bare serum foundation and costs 6.00.
Apply the foundation starting at mid-cheek and using circular motions, blend the product in working one side of the face at a time, and carefully blending the product around the nose, upper lip, and chin and slightly underneath the jawline.
3) Add a subtle glow
3) How to Apply your Make-Up in 4 Steps ; Add a subtle glow of color
Add some color with a bronzer and a subtle glow with a highlighter. Remember, we aren’t trying to sparkle like a disco ball, so avoid overly sparkly or glittery make-up. I like e.l.f’s Illuminating Palette, $8.00, and e.l.fs Ultimate Blending Brush, 6.00.
Apply bronzer starting from the middle of the forehead, along the hairline, with a light dusting across the cheeks. Highlighter can be bushed across the temples, bridge of the nose, chin, and center of the cupid bow above the upper lip.
4) How to Apply Your Make up in 4 Steps – Blush
Add a pop of color
Add a pop of color with a blush. I prefer stains, gels, and creams or cream to powder formulas. I think they look more natural and tend to last longer. However, they may not be appropriate for all skin types. Some good options are e.l.f.s Beautifully Bare cream blush, Tarte’s cheek stain.
I apply creams and gels with my fingers or apply directly to my cheek. I like to apply the blush to the apples of my cheeks, and the easiest way to do that is to smile, and your apples will stand out. Gently tap the blush onto the apples of your cheeks and blend.
I typically apply bronzer/highlighter and then the blush as the last step. However, there is no right or wrong answer here; experiment with different combinations to find what works best for you.
Check out my make-up bag and related posts:
- Anti-Aging Three Products for Younger Looking Skin
- Four Steps You Should Have in Your Skincare Routine
I love color and am always looking for ways to incorporate color into my day. Whether it’s a pretty beaded necklace I made or putting on a colorful floral print dress or that bright new lipstick, beautiful colors make me happy!
I welcome comments, questions, and suggestions; please post a comment or contact me directly and please subscribe to my blog!
