by Leah Wilson

Created on: October 22, 2008   Last Updated: October 01, 2010

Learning to apply makeup is tricky the first few times. I was lucky to have good beauty advice from other women in my family. Here are some tips for beginners. Applying makeup gets easier and easier, the first couple of times are the most difficult. This article will go into basic detail in how to apply foundation, eye makeup, lipstick, and blusher. Hopefully, you will also learn a few neat tricks or tips.

Always start out with a clean face and a splash of cold water. The cold water ensures that the pores are closed so that makeup will not clog them. The first makeup you apply is the base or the foundation. Make sure that your hands are clean, because bacteria from your fingers can cause acne. Sponges are okay, but they soak up about half the foundation. So, I recommend using a sponge for the hard to reach places and let your fingers do the rest. The heat from your fingers will help the formula blend well and set. This is especially true for the thick, stick-like foundation such as Max Factor Pan Stick or the L'oreal quick stick. Also, if using powder, be sure to let the foundation dry well first.

Two tips on applying makeup correctly involves choosing the right shade and picking out the best formulation for your skin type. Makeup comes in a variety of types and colors. Picking out the right one is important. Creme and moose foundation are very moisturizing and are thick enough to use a sponge to apply. Stick foundation is good to use on blemished skin. Liquid foundation is a much thinner formula and offers light, med, or heavy coverage. Cover girl offers a light coverage and is oil-free, which is great for acne prone skin. For more coverage, choose a Max Factor base or use stick foundation. If you just want a natural look with a little color, then use a tinted moisturizer. These go on like a lotion, but add a little color to your face.

Steps to applying foundation:
You always apply and blend downward because of facial hair. Put some foundation in the palm of your hand. Then you just dot your face with it. Dot the forehead, chin, nose, and cheeks. The upper neck is optional. Some put makeup on the upper neck to avoid a mask like effect. First, dot the forehead and blend. Next, do your nose and cheeks. Carefully blend the makeup so that it looks natural, paying special attention to the jaw line.

Pointer#1. If you want to thin your foundation out some, then dilute it with toner or some astringent or water. Your skin will show through the makeup more, giving your

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