How To Get Better at Doing Your Makeup

I love makeup. I love how even a simple makeup look can transform your appearance. I started wearing makeup on a regular basis in 9th grade. I found all the products that could create a look I like, and I never really deviated from them much. Fast forward several, several years and Wet N’ Wild changed the formula of my go to eyeliner. Around the same time I could not find my favorite Maybelline mascara in store anywhere. Thus began my journey into experimenting with makeup. I wanted to share with you my tips and advice. If you are new to makeup, or like me and just want to get better at applying it, I hope you find the following informative.

In no particular order …

1. Watch as many makeup tutorials as you can. You can learn a lot about different makeup products out there and how to use them. Take notes as you watch so you can remember what they did next time you apply your makeup. If the situation allows  you can even follow along with the tutorial. However, I don’t recommend trying a new look if you have an important meeting to go to, or if you are in a hurry to get out the door.
2. Don’t be afraid  to try something new. I only used a pencil eyeliner for years and years. When I started looking for something to replace my old favorite I experimented with all types of eyeliners. Through this process I learned that not all eyeliner is the same. Gel eyeliner will give you the darkest, boldest look, liquid eyeliner goes in the smoothest, and kajal eyeliner will make a mess out of your eyes. Today I mostly use a liquid eyeliner. Right now I am liking the Maybelline Master Precise Curvy Liquid Eyeliner. Through this process I also learned about tightlining.
3. Don’t judge your eye look until you have applied eyeliner and mascara. I am still working on darkening my outer corner with eye shadow without it looking like a muddy puddle. I find when I finish the look with eyeliner and mascara it looks much better.
4. Know what you can and cannot do with makeup currently, and appreciate the skills you do have. The greatest thing about makeup application is it’s a learned skill. With practice you will get better.
5. Focus on learning one new skill at a time. If you are experimenting with eyeliner keep using it until you nail it, then move on to trying something else. When I started using liquid eyeliner I took a different approach to applying it and it never  quite looked right. When I realized I could apply just like I did with a pencil I got it.
6. Experiment with brushes. Just because it was made for a specific purpose doesn’t mean you can’t use it for something else. I like to use powder foundation. I started using it by applying it with a dense brush and a heavy hand. It didn’t come out looking natural. When I changed my brush to a softer, fluffier one my look came out more natural. Real Techniques makes great affordable brushes.
7. Know what eye looks you like and eye shadow colors you like. This may take some research and experimentation but you will get there. Knowing this will help you focus when it comes to eye shadow. Some people love purple eye shadow looks, others don’t. I like purple, but I like darker shades.
8. Know the difference between matte and shimmer shades and how to use them. Lisa J has made an excellent video breaking down how, why and when to use eye shadows. You can watch it here.
9. Don’t give up for good. I struggled for a while with highlighter. When I finally found the right brush I nailed it.
10. Don’t think you have to go out and buy high end products. You can find excellent drugstore quality products that work just as good, sometimes even better than higher end ones. Covergirl True Naked eyeshadows are beautiful.

What are some of your best makeup tips and tricks? Who are your favorite makeup bloggers or youtubers? Let us know in the comments below.

As always a big Thank You! for stopping by.