Reckless Youth

Moisturize - The first step is the most important. It's even truer when it comes to applying makeup. Most foundations and powders contain heavy minerals that will leave your skin looking and feeling dried out. This can cause pores and flaky patches to appear larger, which is why it's important to apply a light facial moisturizer a few minutes before you apply your actual makeup. It's also important to remember that flaky skin and large pores are a sign that your skin isn't getting the right amount of hydration. Drinking the recommended amount of water each day will keep your skin looking healthy and smooth and may prevent future acne breakouts.

 

Pore Primer - To get a flawless finish, you'll need to use a product that fills in any pores or acne marks that you may have. I've spent the last few days researching product reviews to make sure I pick the best products to test. Hands down, everyone seems to prefer either Maybelline's Baby Skin instant pore eraser primer ($5.94 @ Walmart) or The Porefessional by Benefit ($30 @ Sephora). I've tried them both and I have to say they are very similar in coverage and the way that they feel. They're so similar in fact, that I feel safe to call them dupes. I personally prefer the pigment-less Baby Skin to the flesh colored Porefessional because it feels slightly less heavy and I don't have to worry if the tint will effect the color of my foundation.

 

Foundation - It is essential to find a foundation that matches your skin color and skin type. If you have dry, oily, or combination skin then you most likely need a foundation that will address your skin issues or you'll end up looking shiny or flaky. I suggest searching for reviews of products that others with your skin type have found success with. Once you have an idea of which products to look for you'll need to find your color match by testing a small amount on the back of your hand or below your wrist (whichever matches your face best). Many makeup stores have trained beauty advisers who can help you find the perfect product for you. To apply the foundation, simply pour a small amount onto a flat surface. Using a stippling brush, dip the brush into the foundation and apply in a circular fanning motion. This will give your makeup an air brushed look.

 

Contouring and Highlighting - For this you will need three shades of shimmer-free powder foundation. The first shade should match your foundation and should be applied all over the face using a powder brush. The second should be a shade or two darker than the first. Using a contouring brush, apply this darker powder along the edge of your face and forehead near your hair line, blending as you go. Suck in your cheeks like a fish. Apply more of the darker shade in the hollow area under your cheek bones, making sure that the color is darkest near your ear and fades seamlessly into your foundation. After you have added blush to your cheek bones, highlight the area under both corners of your eyes with the lightest tinted powder. Rub a small amount down the line of your nose and blend the darkest color along the sides. This will make your face look slimmer and more defined.

 

Setting Spray - The finishing touch. A good setting spray can be the difference between looking like a glowing goddess or a melting mess. There's nothing more disappointing than spending a long time getting your makeup perfect only to have it running down your face a few hours later. You'll still be packing blotting pads in your purse, but taking a moment to set your products will keep you looking fresh faced for longer.