How to Apply Makeup

Different women apply makeup differently. There are lots of techniques and styles a woman might adapt in making herself primp and pretty.

Some women use their fingertips in applying makeup while some make use of sponge applicators. But every woman knows that the only way to achieve a perfect and flawless face is by using makeup brushes.

Like an artist’s brushes, makeup brushes come in different sizes. Some are rounded while others are pointed. Some brushes may be full or thin. Makeup brushes are made by either natural or synthetic hairs. Natural makeup brushes use goat, sable, squirrel or mongoose hairs. These types of makeup brushes are more effective in makeup application since natural hairs have pores or tiny pockets that allows even placement of colors.

Most makeup brushes come in sets but some people can also opt to buy separate makeup brushes too.

Face:

Makeup brushes for the face are soft and big. They are used to apply and blend in makeup as well as to buff and contour the face. Powder brushes are used for applying loose or pressed powder. These brushes are great for blush application, too. Though there are also blush brushes that are often used in highlighting and shading the face and cheeks. Foundation brushes are vital in flawless application of liquid or cream foundation. Concealer brushes are used for concealer applications and are quite effective in reducing the reddish appearance of acne as well as the blackness of under eye circles.

Eyes:

Eye makeup brushes include a brow groomers, lash and eyeliner brushes. Brown groomers groom brows as well as blend color. Lash brushes are used for mascara applications and eyeliner brushes are effective in lining the eyes with a cream or liquid liner.

Lips:

Lip brushes are for lip gloss and lipstick applications. Some lip brushes are even retractable for easy and hygienic storage.

Makeup brushes are only great if they are still in good form. Brushes pick up oil and bacteria: Oil ultimately clog the brushes’ pores making it ineffective in makeup application. Bacteria in the brushes can transfer to the skin and create allergies, acne and various skin problems.

Cleaning makeup brushes are simple. Just take a gentle shampoo, baby shampoo will do great, and mix a few drops into a glass of warm water. Dip in your brushes and stir it into the water until the makeup runs into the water. Repeat this step until the water runs clear.

When the makeup brushes are clean, run them one last time in running water. Though some people recommend drying their makeup brushes using a paper towel, it may cause them to lose their shape. It is best just to shape them and then place them upright on a stable base.

Most people are hesitant in cleaning their makeup brushes since they tend to take several days to dry. For everyday makeup users, it is best to keep at least two sets of assorted makeup brushes on hand. Make sure to keep the spare set in a clean plastic bag and store in a clean, dry place.