Are you new to makeup and overwhelmed by where to start? You’re not alone! Makeup can be daunting, but acing your first few looks can be done with just the right basics and a bit of practice. With the right advice, anyone can create a starter kit for makeup application, and perfect beginner techniques for getting the most out of your purchase. Read on to discover how you can look like a pro with nothing more than a few must-haves.
1. Assembling the Perfect Beginner Makeup Kit
Just starting out with makeup? Don’t worry—creating a foolproof starter kit is simpler than you think. All you need are some reliable-yet-affordable beauty basics and a few insider tips.
Picking Your Products
The “right” makeup products are ones that will help you achieve your desired look. These could include coverage and color cosmetics, based on your skin type and makeup goals. But no matter what you choose, it’s important to use natural, non-toxic formulas when possible. If you don’t know where to start, consider the following:
- Concealer
- Foundation
- Translucent powder
- Lip balm and/or lipstick
- Eye shadow
- Mascara
- Blush
- Bronzer
Once you decide on some products that suit your preferences, it’s time to begin testing. Make sure to pay attention to things like texture, coverage, finish, and stay power.
Organizing Your Collection
When it comes to assembling a makeup kit, organization is key. It may be helpful to divide your products into categories, like eyes, lips, and face. You may opt to store them all in one bag, or divide each category into individual compartments for easy access. Additionally, you can add in extras like brushes and sponges, color correctors, and setting sprays depending on your desired style.
Try, Test, and Experiment
When it comes to makeup, there are no hard-and-fast rules. As such, you’ll need to practice a bit in order to find techniques and formulas that work for you. Make sure to use your products, experiment with different looks, and take pictures so you can get an idea of your favorite techniques. Once you’ve developed an arsenal of go-to looks, you’ll be one step closer to becoming a makeup guru!
2. 5 Essential Makeup Products to Start With
Figuring out which makeup products beginner’s need can be overwhelming. To ease the process, there are five essential makeup items to focus on.
Foundation
- Foundation improves the overall look of the skin’s texture and acts as a canvas for additional makeup products.
- Choosing the right shade is important. Test a few shades on the jawline instead of the back of the hand.
Concealer
- Concealer covers dark circles, acne and any other blemishes on the face.
- When selecting a colour, aim for one that’s slightly lighter than the foundation.
Powder
- Powder sets the foundation, helps control oil, and keeps makeup smudge-free.
- Applied with a dome-shaped brush, sweep powder over the forehead, nose, and chin.
Blush
- Blush creates a beautiful glow that lasts all day, and defines the cheekbones for added structure.
- Choose a natural colour that’s the same as the natural flush of the skin when pinched.
Highlighter
- Highlighter accentuates and contours elements of the face to create a subtle, highlighted shimmer.
- Gently swipe the highlighter onto cheekbones, forehead, nose, cupid’s bow, and chin.
Utilizing these five products, anyone can create a beautiful makeup look.
3. Mastering the Basics – Basic Techniques and Tips for Makeup Beginners
Whether you are just starting out with makeup or have been around for some time, mastering the basics is essential for any makeup enthusiast. To help you get started, here are a few tips and techniques that makeup beginners should know and use:
- Skin Prep – To create a lasting look, makeup should always be applied to a well-prepped face. Cleanse, exfoliate, and moisturize your skin to create a smooth and natural base. Oils, creams, and serums can be used to prep the skin and keep it hydrated.
- Preparing Your Palette – Keep all of your makeup products, from foundation to eyeshadow to brushes, organized and easily accessible. Gather all the items you’ll be needing and prepare the palette for a smooth application process.
- Prime Time – Before applying any color makeup, use a primer to seal the underlying layers and help makeup stay in place and last all day. Primers also provide extra sun protection, combat oiliness, and ensure a more even application.
Once your palette is prepped and ready to go, you can begin learning about makeup application. There are many techniques out there, but here a few of the basics:
- Blending – Blending is the key to a natural and seamless application. Use eyeshadow or face brushes to create a smooth transition of color and coverage.
- Light & Shade – Light and shade are also important techniques used to create a sculpted, dimensional face. Applying light and dark colors contours the face, creating more depth and texture.
- Defining & Highlighting – HighLighting and Defining will add more definition and character to the face. You can use a lighter color to highlight areas of the face like the browbone, the apples of your cheeks, and the tip of your nose.
Makeup is all about experimentation and expression. Get creative, have fun, and continue to learn different techniques and tips to gain more confidence with makeup. With just a few basics techniques, you can create beautiful makeup looks in no time.
4. Onwards and Upwards – Building Your Makeup Skills for the Future
Just like a skydiver seeking to soar and explore the sky further and further, the sky of makeup skills is there to explore and expand. Let us explore further.
To advance your career in the makeup industry, or to simply become more skillful in the world of makeup artistry, the following steps should put you on your way.
- Continuous Learning: Whether it is through books, online courses, tutorials or YouTube videos, don’t stop at what you already know. Look for new techniques, new ways of application and novel looks to create.
- Practice Makes Perfect: Just like a budding pianist needs to hone their skills every day, practice the techniques you have learnt. As you practice, you improve. Even the greatest masters refine themselves every single day.
- Be Open to Critique: While no one likes criticism, it is important to accept feedback and grow as a makeup artist. If you have the courage to take feedback graciously and apply it to yourself, the improvement in your skills will be truly immense and massive.
These are just three step to help you to grow exponentially in the realm of makeup artistry. As you look for newer and more innovative techniques, apply yourself with a dedication and patience to hone that technique to a degree that truly amazes the viewer.
So, look up at the sky of makeup artistry and explore the diverse range of techniques and looks to truly reach your potential. Onwards and upwards!
Congratulations on taking the first steps towards applying makeup like a pro! Now you have all the basic tools and techniques you need to start applying your own makeup and creating impressive looks. Go forth, makeup lover, and express yourself through your cosmetics!
