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Image Gallery: Makeup Tips Your makeup collection should always include a powder brush. Check out pictures of essential makeup tips. Jupiterimages/ThinkstockFor thousands of years, both women and, occasionally, men have been using cosmetics. While makeup trends evolve, the fundamentals remain the same. The goal is to enhance and brighten the eyes, add color to the cheeks and lips, and perfect the skin's tone and texture.
However, just like any task, the right tools are key to achieving the best results. Even with the finest makeup products, without the proper tools, their quality won't be fully realized.
What tools are essential for your collection?
5: Powder Brush
Once you've applied your foundation, your face needs one essential item: powder. Powder helps to set your foundation, smooths out your complexion, and ensures your makeup lasts all day or night. To apply it, you'll need the right brush. But what should you look for?
Powder brushes come in various shapes and sizes, but don’t be overwhelmed. Choose a brush with a full, soft head. The bristles should feel light and fluffy. If they’re too stiff, your makeup might apply unevenly. A softer brush also reduces the risk of skin irritation. Some prefer a brush with a long handle, others with a short one—it’s all about personal choice.
Don't forget to clean your brushes regularly. Dirty brushes can cause breakouts or even infections. Rinse your brush under lukewarm water with a bit of soap, gently squeeze out the bristles, and lay it flat on a clean towel to dry.
4: Eyelash Curler
It may look painful, but you won’t feel a thing.
Medioimages/Photodisc/ThinkstockEyelash curlers may appear intimidating, but when used properly, they can make your eyes look more open and defined. Curling your lashes is an easy way to brighten your face, even without a full makeup look.
Here’s how to use an eyelash curler: Always curl your lashes before applying mascara to avoid pulling them out. Hold the curler and open it by spreading the handles. Position your upper lashes between the curler’s top and bottom sections, making sure it's close to the base of your lash line without touching your eyelids. Gently squeeze, hold for a few seconds, and voilà – beautiful lashes!
Some people use heated eyelash curlers for extra curl, but they’re not necessary unless you have particularly stubborn lashes.
3: Sponge
If you’re using liquid foundation, it’s best to apply it with a sponge instead of your fingers. Your fingers may transfer bacteria to your face, potentially causing breakouts. Makeup sponges also ensure a more even application.
However, avoid using too much foundation, as it may settle into the lines and imperfections on your face, making them more noticeable. Experts recommend gently dipping the sponge into foundation, dabbing it onto spots or discolorations first, and then dampening the sponge to apply foundation across your entire face. Be sure to blend it smoothly into your neck.
Don’t forget to clean your sponge regularly to prevent bacteria buildup on your skin. Yuck!
Before the 19th century, many used a mixture of carbonate, hydroxide, and lead oxide to whiten their faces. This cosmetic concoction often caused severe health problems, ranging from muscle paralysis to even death. Yikes!
2: Eyebrow/Lash Comb
We mention the eyebrow and lash comb together because they often come as a set. One side features the lash comb, while the other has the eyebrow comb.
An eyebrow comb (sometimes called an eyebrow brush) helps shape and define your eyebrows, keeping any stray hairs in place. If you use an eyebrow pencil, the brush will also help blend the color.
If you wear mascara, an eyelash comb is a must. Mascara can create clumps, and an eyelash comb will help separate them. Plus, by brushing your lashes upwards and away from your eyelid, you’ll add a subtle curl.
When selecting an eyelash comb, choose one with metal teeth. The thin metal teeth can efficiently separate your lashes. Also, opt for one that folds or has a cover, so the bristles stay intact and don’t damage your other beauty products.
1: Blush Brush
A soft, puffy blush brush is perfect for applying color to the apples of your cheeks.
iStockphoto/ThinkstockBlush is used to bring a healthy flush to our cheeks, but which brush works best for the task?
Blush brushes come in a variety of shapes and sizes, each offering a unique way to apply color. We love the classic fluffy brush – it's perfect for adding color to the apples of your cheeks. A thin, fan-shaped brush can help smooth out color and remove excess powder. For bronzer, a kabuki-style brush with a large, puffy head provides wider coverage. You can also find smaller, angled brushes for more precise contouring along the cheekbones.
