Picture Perfect Series: Fresh Makeup Instructions
Just because a girl loves color in her makeup doesn’t mean she can’t do without her favorite bombastic shades for a day. A new face doesn’t have to be boring and contrary to what some people think, a lot more effort is put into creating this look than other types that are more extravagant. The main reason for this is that good, clear skin is needed to achieve this. In this installment of the Picture Perfect series, I’ll share some tips on how to rock the fresh-faced effect, something that adds youth to any girl at heart.
1) Skin care, Skin care, Skin care
That’s how it is. Skin care is paramount for this look. Cleanse, tone, moisturize, exfoliate, make a regular mask. Do whatever it takes to get this part right and the rest will be much easier. If you have acne, get rid of it. See a dermatologist. Go for facials. Invest in proper skin care. You could say that concealer is your best friend as he hides all your flaws. Yes, he does, especially if you have a really good one. But let’s say he has acne that protrudes 3mm from the surface of the skin. When light, whether it’s sunlight or indoor lighting, falls on your face from above, the bumps will show up for all to see because they have shadows. And then all of a sudden you’re not so fresh anymore. You could apply 3mm thickness of makeup to the rest of the face, but makeup is usually reserved for the opera.
2) Choose the right foundation
Once you’ve taken care of any serious skin issues, you can move on to getting the second base right. Choose a foundation that has at most medium coverage to let your skin’s natural glow shine through. If you have dry, mature skin, choose a liquid foundation that has a dewy finish. Right now, I am using BECCA’s Boudoir Skin Mineral Powder. It doesn’t clog pores and works well as a base for that look.
3) Cheek Color
Stay away from strong blush, bronzer, and contour powders. Choose something pink and natural. Highlighting powders and creams work great to enhance the features of your face that stand out, and this adds dimension without going overboard. Areas to highlight include the cheekbones, T-zone, Cupid’s bow, and chin. I recommend the latest Love in Bloom Sculpting Blusher from Laneige, which acts more like a highlighter than a blush. The compact also has a shade of brown, which you can use to contour and shape the nose without making it look too made up and artificial.
4) Keep the eyes simple
Eyes are the windows to a girl’s soul. There is no point in wrapping them up in a smoky mystery here. Use neutral tones just to add depth to the crease. To add a bit of life to your eyes, use shimmery eyeshadow. If you have any of the Urban Decay Naked palettes, this is a great opportunity to play with the colors in it. Avoid heavy eyeliner and mascara. Lashes should be kept light and simple, not feathery, stuffy or heavy. If you like colored lenses, go for it.
5) Glossy Lips
Put on some glitter! You can choose a gloss that is already colored, or you can use lipstick or lip tint, followed by a layer of clear gloss in the middle of your lips. I prefer the latter because the color stays longer, especially if dyes are used. Maybe try Benetint, BECCA Beach Tint, Clinique Chubby Stick Moisturizing Lip Color Balm, and YADAH Angel Lip Tint and Cheek Stain.