How to Wear Makeup to Enhance Your Features

You know what the #1 problem is when people wear makeup? They use too much. It looks unnatural. This is not a "no-makeup makeup" tutorial, which there are a bazillion of so if you want one, just google it. But I feel like the best makeup is often the subtle kind that enhances, but doesn't detract.

Here is a simple makeup look that I wear all the time and is flattering on any face.

Step 1: Start with a fresh palatte (or face). Use a good facial wash to clear away dirt and grime, and then a light moisturizer.

Step 2: Concealer. Instead of caking on foundation, a good concealer can cover up problem areas without looking unnatural. Dot it on any acne, redness, or dark circles and blend out with patting motions

Step 3: Powder. Use a translucent powder to set the areas you put concealer on and any other areas if you get oily throughout the day (generally avoid putting it on the cheeks to keep a natural looking glow) You could skip this step completely if you have very dry skin.

Step 4: Fill in brows. Use a brow powder instead of pencil for a more natural look and concentrate only on areas with sparser hare, usually towards the ends of the brows. I love the Anastasia brow powder duo which you can find at Sephora.

Step 5: Eyeshadow. Use a light champagne or pink coloured eyeshadow with a little bit of sparkle to brighten the eye. Apply on the lid only, and apply with a wet brush to make the colour more intense.

Step 6: Eyeliner. Using a black or brown liquid eyeliner, apply a very thin line close to the upper lashes. Don't wing it out. You can also apply pencil to your bottom waterline to give your eyes more definition, but don't use it in the inner corners and probably not if you have small eyes as this does shrink them.

Step 7: Mascara. Use a black or brown mascara and apply only one or two thin coats. There should be no clumps.

Step 8: Lips. Use your favourite MLB lipstick. That stands for My Lips But Better, it's basically a shade that matches your own lipcolor fairly closely. This gives the effect of fuller, softer, and more evenly pigmented lips.

Et voila! A subtle, sweet look that's suitable for any occasion.