Tuesday, April 29, 2008

Cosmetics 101: Building Your Arsenal


A few weeks ago it was my friend’s Birthday and we had a big party planned for her. As part of the planning prep I invited her to come and hangout at my house to get ready before hand. We got to have fun girly time I flat ironed her hair and did her make-up. We got to talking about how she feels overwhelmed shopping for Make-up. I think this is a common problem for a lot of women. Those make-up sales people can be hit and miss with their advice sometimes. Check out this post by my friend The Wonk for a great example of how annoying these trips can be.

I don't claim to know a lot about makeup but I do know how to shop for makeup. I like getting my makeup done by the ladies at the counter. It is like a free spa.. well free if you don't blow an entire paycheck on mac eyeshadows (unlike me). My first job out of College was Assistant Manger of the Cosmetics Department of a large department Store. I didn't work at the counters I basically had to deal with the catty cosmetic counter fights about commissions and schmooze with the account reps. It was probably the Best and the worst retail job I have ever had. I did learn a few things about makeup application during that time though.

Which brings me to my first Lesson in a New Series I have creatively named Cosmetics 101.

Lesson 1.
Before you apply your makeup you need to remember these basic things:
  1. Always apply makeup to clean skin (follow the routine appropriate for your skin type).

  2. Make sure you have all the appropriate makeup tools and products you need.

  3. Apply makeup in a well-lighted area.

  4. Use a magnifying mirror to check your blending and overall smoothness

I think a lot of people skip step two. Most gals just don't have a good brush set. You can purchase all the coolest most amazing makeup in the world but if you don't have the correct tools to apply it then it won't look help. I recommend that ever girl invest in a good brush set.

Sephora has a deal on makeup brushes right now. A ten brush set for $72, this might seem expensive since you can pick up a brush at the drugstore for a couple of dollars, but these brushes will last you if you car for them properly. You can also buy a good brush cleaner spray at Sephora to keep your brushes healthy.

The Sephora website also has these helpful videos telling you how to use your newly purchased brushes!

Next week: Foundation and Concealer.

3 comments:

Dada J said...

Makeup is intimidating...I luckly have been blessed with fairly clearskin and so I don't really bother but i have always wanted to do my eyeliner with a brush and eyeshadow like Carmondy on what not to wear but have been to nervous/cheap to buy any brushes...one of these days i will need to make the step

Anonymous said...

I totally need to go brush shopping...my kitty has eaten all my brushes into stumps (all except my beautiful blush brush)...stupid kitty.

The Wonk said...

Thanks for the tips and the shout out!