Wednesday, February 25, 2009

Makeup Application is Key to a Natural Look

By Marilyn Etzel

The purpose of makeup is to provide a flawless natural appearance to the skin. Mineral makeup fulfills that purpose by solving the problem of getting a natural look. The mix of fine minerals is safe for most skin tones and types.

There are a variety of mineral cosmetics on the market. Though the makeup is created from natural ingredients, some may contain fillers. Choosing which one looks the best is really a matter of taste. What ingredients are important to you? What do you not want to see in your mineral makeup?

You'll be pleased to know that mineral cosmetics include all of the essential makeup products: concealer, eye shadow, blush, and foundation. Even though mineral makeup was created to look natural, if applied wrong, your face will look "cakey." Avoid the clumps with a few makeup tips for getting it right.

Anyone who has worn makeup in their life has probably learned that foundation sets the stage for adding other makeup products. Think of your face as a canvas. Applying foundation is akin to priming the canvas so that it will readily take up the paints you are using for a better look. Foundation also protects your face.

Put your best face forward even before applying any makeup. It is still necessary to cleanse and moisturize your face before the foundation is applied. After moisturizing, wait until the skin is completely dry to avoid caking of the makeup.

Mineral foundation can be applied to the skin in a dry or wet preparation. First, you will learn how to apply mineral foundation on dry skin.

Applying Dry Mineral Foundation

1. When opening a new jar of mineral foundation, shake it gently to loosen the minerals. Dump a small amount of the foundation on a clean surface like the jar's lid.

2. Kabuki brushes are the traditional applicators for mineral foundation. The bristles of the brush hold the powder well and spread it easily over your face. Much is not required for a daily use. Dip the brush into the powder. Before applying, tap the Kabuki brush against the jar to dislodge any extra.

3. Now it's time to get down to business. Apply foundation to the jaw line first. Using a circular motion, work your way upwards towards your forehead. For the nose, sweep down the ridge and out across your cheekbones.

4. Move over the face again with your Kabuki brush until you are satisfied with the coverage.

Applying Wet Mineral Makeup

1. You may prefer to have your mineral makeup foundation applied like a liquid. To do this, still apply a dime size amount of the makeup to the lid.

2. Using a spray bottle filled with water, squirt a few drops of water onto the foundation. Mix the two together using a Kabuki brush. Application can start when the mixture reaches the right consistency for you.

3. Begin by using circular motions to apply the foundation to your jaw line. Work your way upwards to your forehead. The first time, go slow to be sure that the foundation blends evenly for a flawless look. Apply the foundation to your neck as well.

Following the steps above for dry or wet mineral foundation application will result in a natural look to your skin and a canvas ready for whatever you apply next. - 15255

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