by Jocelyn Guevara

Created on: June 15, 2008

Choosing the right makeup for your skin type is not as impossible as it may sound. It is important not to switch makeup brands constantly. Constant switching is hard on your skin, and makes it handle more chemicals than it needs to. Make sure your face is clean before applying any makeup.

Concealer

When purchasing concealer, it is best that you try it out on the back of your hand if possible. If it blends easily, it is probably the right shade. Make sure that it is not only light enough or dark enough, but is also the right color exactly. Some makeup may be too red, yellow, etc. for your complexion. To apply the makeup, pour the desired amount on the palm of your hand, and use your other hand to rub the makeup on your face. This helps you avoid putting any dirt or bacteria that may be on your hand or face into your concealer. Once applied, the concealer should not leave a line on your jaw. If the skin on your face does not match the skin on your neck, you are using the wrong shade. Makeup that is too dark will leave a noticeable line, and makeup that is too light will do the same in addition to highlighting any blemishes.

Eye Makeup

If you have a darker skin tone, avoid eye shadows and pencils that are very light. If you have a lighter skin tone, avoid shadows and pencils that are too dark. Dramatic eye makeup is typically only appropriate for evening wear. To make your eye liner appear more natural for daily wear, try applying it only to the outer half of your lower eyelid and a thin line across your upper lid. The liner should not look like a bold line, but rather a subtle complement to the contour of your eye.

If you have blonde or red hair, brown mascara will probably look more natural on your lashes. If you have darker hair, black mascara is probably more appropriate, even for daytime wear. When applying mascara, always make sure you get it as close to your eye as possible. This makes your eyelashes seem more defined, and prevents excessive clumping. To make your eye shadow blend in with your complexion, use a lighter shade on the inner half of your upper lid, while using a darker shade on the outer half. If you paint or draw part or all of your eyebrows, the color you use should match your mascara and look natural.

Lipstick, Lip Gloss & Lip Liner

When choosing a lipstick, it is important to keep in consideration that the clothing you wear also affects the way it appears on you. Buying bright lipsticks is fine, but be sure to own at least a couple shades that are neutral. If you have dark lines at the corners of your mouth, wearing glosses that shimmer or sparkle may enhance the shape of your lips and take attention away from the lines. Your lip liner should not be darker than your lipstick, but rather the same shade or slightly lighter. You should use lipsticks and lip glosses that do not dry out your lips.
Blush & Powder

Your blush should not make you appear dull, washed out, or sunburned. If your cheeks look like cherries, your blush is too bright and should only be used for performances on a stage under very bright lighting.

Powder should match your liquid concealer. Make sure it is evenly applied without gathering in creases. If it makes your skin too oily or too dry, you should try another brand.

If your makeup causes your skin to be oily or dry, or makes you break out, itch, or burn, discontinue use of the product immediately.
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