When it Comes to Makeup Less is More

When we see a beautiful girl, many of us say “she’s so pretty; she doesn’t need makeup.” I disagree. The most beautiful woman in the world can still be enhanced with a little blush and mascara. When you think about it, even the models that are on the covers of the most famous beauty magazines not only have a full face of makeup, but their pictures are always touched up and air brushed. We have an obsession with looking natural and natural is good, however there are tricks to use, so you can look like the girl next door, while still wearing cosmetics.

One of the biggest makeup mistakes is over applying blush. You can see a woman from the other side of the street when she has abused her blush. Some of us abuse mascara creating lashes that are too thick and full of clumps. Skin care also plays a big part in the application of cosmetics. If skin is not properly taken care of, and heavily blemished, makeup will look heavier and more oily. Dry skin also causes makeup to look unnatural and the skin to look aged.

Makeup should enhance your features and at the same time look natural. The first step is to take care of your skin so that it complements your makeup. Smooth skin will go a long way in making you look younger. Cleansing twice a day with skin care products made especially for your skin type is key, and a major step toward looking natural. Wash your face with a cleanser and a toner if you have normal skin, and a cleanser and astringent if you have oily skin. Have your skin analyzed by a professional.

Use a mask weekly to combat blackheads and oil. For dry skin the masks that are moisturizing give the best results. This will make your skin glow.

If your skin is oily, use an oil-free foundation. Many women buy foundation without checking to see if there is oil in it. Women with dry skin need oil in their foundation. If they wear an oil-free foundation their skin will appear older.

The key to flawless foundation is to apply it with a synthetic brush and pat a damp sponge over it afterwards. This easy step will remove any excess on the face and jaw area eliminating lines.
When you dip into your blush, wipe the excess off on a tissue before touching your cheek. Begin with less than you think you need. You can always add more. When blush is first applied it looks good, however sometimes it settles into the skin after a minute. Work on your eye shadow and look again. I recommend using an eraser to soften the edges of the blush. It may look only slightly better to you but when you are seen from afar there will be a major difference. Finish with pressed powder—not translucent.

If you love the look of thick lush lashes (and who doesn’t?) the best way to achieve this look is to separate the lashes with a metal comb. Lashes will remain full, long and neat.

Last, but not least, blend, blend, blend. The more you blend the better you’ll look.

Sylvia Hamowy is the owner of Reflections Cosmetics. She is a professional makeup artist, beauty editor, and former radio show host. She is featured in the International Who’s Who of Entrepreneurs.