Getting Smart With Makeup!

As a makeup artist and makeup lover, I get asked a ton of questions about makeup application. While each person has some unique concerns, there are a handful that are common despite age, skin type or budget. 

The below list covers the top five questions that I get asked the most:

1. Why does my foundation look orange?
Answer: I recall the late 90s when tanning beds were all the rage. Some people overdid it, giving their skin an unnatural orange hue. Unfortunately, I still see some individuals wearing foundation that sits on their face like an orange mask. The issue is likely that the foundation is the wrong undertone or the foundation oxidized. For example, if your undertone is more yellow, but your foundation has too much of a pink hue to it, this can cause your skin look orange. 

If you find that your foundation changes color midday, the formula may be reacting to the natural oils in your skin. To prevent this, opt for a primer which will act as a barrier between your skin and your foundation. A couple of primers that I love on my skin are Becca First Light Priming Filter Instant Complexion Refresh ($18 for 0.5 Fl. Oz. - Travel Size), and Hourglass No 28 Primer Serum ($65 for 1 FL Oz/30 ML or $22 for 8 ML - Travel Size). 

2. Is there an easy way to do a smokey eye?
Answer: Yes! You will need three eyeshadow colors to achieve this look. Grab a dark base color, a lighter highlight shade, and a transition color. Start with your single, dark base color and apply it to your eyelid. I find this technique especially helpful for beginners. Next, use your highlight shade (try matte light beige or ivory) and apply it just under your brow. Finally, grab your transition color. This shadow should be one or two shades darker than your skin. Using a fluffy brush, blend this color between your lid color and highlight color. Finally, take a clean blending brush and blend all three colors together until you don't see any harsh lines. Charlotte Tilbury The Sophisticate Luxury Palette is a great choice for this look because it has all of the colors you need. Fluffy eyeshadow brushes are available at all price points and a staple for beautiful eyeshadow application. Try the Real Techniques Bold Metals #203, Bdellium Tools #776 or Furless Cosmetics PRO2E for the perfect blend. 

3. What order should I apply my makeup in?
Answer: There are no rules! However I recommend applying eyeshadow first for the easiest cleanup. This way any fallout can easily be wiped away with a makeup remover wipe. I always apply lipstick last. This helps prevent smudges. 

4. How can I prevent mascara from smudging?
Answer: The easiest way to prevent smudges is to wear a waterproof formula. Try Tarte Lights, Camera, Splashes. If you really don't want to use waterproof, then after all your eye makeup is on, blot your lashes with a piece of blotting paper.

5. How can I make my bronzer appear more natural?
Answer: Choose a color that is not too dark for your complexion. Start with just a light dusting on the tops of your cheekbones, nose and forehead. The right brush is key to a naturally bronzed look. I prefer something fluffy, with a flat top so that I can apply product and blend with the same brush.
Examples: Cover FX Powder Brush ($21), Marc Jacobs The Face I ($48), Bdellium Tools Yellow or Green Bambu Finishing Brush #955 ($8.40)

The style of brush you decide on comes down to personal preference. However, of the three that I have listed above, the Bdellium Tools Finishing Brush will give you a lighter application. 

Here is my final look using all of the techniques listed above:

What are your makeup questions? Ask me below so that I can help! Know some makeup tips that you want to share? Please do! I love learning new things, and find that even those without a ton of experience have valuable insight to offer. Don't forget to follow me on Twitter @MakeupMatters1

As always, thanks for reading. 

*This is not a sponsored post. I do not get paid to write reviews or mention any products in my blog. All opinions are my own. All of the products mentioned in this post were purchased by me.