Ashley Riddle, makeup artist for Up-Do's For I Do's offers these tips for creating a flawless makeup base.
Start fresh
"Start with a clean face and clean hands," says Riddle. "We love Stages of Beauty Cleanser to clear the skin of any previous makeup. Follow with a moisturizer containing SPF."
Prime and conceal
"Prep your skin with a primer," suggests Riddle. "We find that Smashbox PhotoFinish works well with every skin tone and texture. Apply evenly throughout. Conceal under eyes and blemishes with NARS Concealer . Using the tip of the stick, apply lightly to areas that need it most. Use your ring finger to smudge concealer across skin."
Brush on your foundation
"Using a foundation brush , apply either a tinted moisturizer or liquid foundation," Riddle says. "The foundation brush [allows] the application to go on more smoothly and will soak up less of the product than a sponge. Ask a pro makeup artist to help determine what shade or product line will be best for your skin."
Set it to last
Set your foundation with a loose powder. "We suggest Sonia Kashuk Barely There Loose Powder ," explains Riddle. "Be sure to use a large powder brush. We find that MAC Cosmetics 150 Large Powder Brush works well. By adding a loose powder, the foundation will set and become more long lasting."
In addition to Riddle's helpful makeup tips, these other suggestions will create a flawless look, day in and day out.
Color match
With foundation, the most important thing in creating a natural look is to find the right color. The best place to match the shade is along your jawline. Once you have selected your color, apply your foundation sparingly. You want the foundation to just even out your skin tone — not mask your face. You can always add more, if you need it.
Concealer tips
There's always a debate on whether to apply concealer before or after your foundation. Makeup artist and beauty guru John Gustafson suggests if you are using a liquid or cream foundation, you should apply your concealer after the foundation. However if you are using a powder foundation, apply your concealer before the foundation.
Powder perfect
Apply your finishing powder with a puff or brush first to the areas where you normally get oily . Follow with a light dusting of powder all over the face.
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