Makeup is a powerful tool. It has the potential to transform appearances, boost confidence, and express individuality. For beginners, navigating the world of beauty products can be rather daunting. To help make this journey smoother, we will dedicate this article to providing a comprehensive guide on two primary makeup staples: blush and lipstick.
Blush adds a healthy flush to your cheeks, giving the illusion of radiant, glowing skin. It’s an essential product for anyone looking to create a fresh, youthful look. Lipstick, on the other hand, is the finishing touch to any makeup look. It can add a pop of colour to your face, enhance your smile, or make a bold statement.
If you’re a beginner, worry not. We have you covered! We will guide you on how to choose and apply these two essential makeup items. Furthermore, we will recommend some of the best brands suitable for beginners, and provide you with a FREE blush and lipstick chart.
Choosing the Right Blush: A Comprehensive Guide
Choosing the perfect blush might seem overwhelming at first due to the countless shades available. However, the key to finding the best blush for you lies within your skin tone and undertone. Skin tone refers to the color on the surface of your skin, while undertone is the shade beneath the surface.
For fair to light skin tones, blush hues like soft pink, light coral, and peach work best. Medium skin tones can go for rich mauve, deep peach, or soft berry. For dark to deep skin tones, try deep fuchsia, warm brown, or tangerine blushes.
Remember, the goal is to mimic a natural flush. Use a light hand when applying, and gradually build up the color until you’ve achieved the desired effect.
How to Apply Blush: Tips for Novices
Applying blush might seem intimidating at first, but with a few tips and a little practice, you’ll be a pro in no time. To begin, invest in a good blush brush – it should be soft, dense, and slightly dome-shaped for the best application.
Apply the blush on the apples of your cheeks, then sweep it upwards towards your temples. This creates a natural, lifted effect. Remember, less is more. It’s easier to add more product than it is to take away.
Lastly, blend, blend, blend! Good blending is the secret to a natural-looking blush. Use circular motions and make sure there are no harsh lines.
Best Blush Brands for Beginner Makeup Enthusiasts
Whether you’re looking for a high-end blush or a more budget-friendly option, there are plenty of brands out there that cater to the needs of makeup novices. For instance, NARS is well-known for their highly pigmented, blendable blushes – the shade ‘Orgasm’ is a cult classic.
On the more affordable side, Maybelline’s Fit Me Blush is an excellent choice for beginners. It’s easy to apply, blendable, and comes in a range of shades suitable for different skin tones. Milani’s Baked Blush is another budget-friendly option worth considering.
Experiment with different brands and formulas to find what works best for you.
Picking the Perfect Lipstick: An In-Depth Guide
Choosing the right lipstick is essential for completing your makeup look. Similar to blush, your skin tone and undertones also play a significant role in picking the perfect shade.
For fair to light skin tones, opt for nude, pink, or light mocha shades. Medium skin tones can choose from shades like rose, berry, or cherry red. For dark to deep skin tones, deep plum, chocolate, or red with blue undertones are flattering choices.
Remember, these are just guidelines. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different shades and finishes. After all, makeup is about expressing your personal style.
Lipstick Application Basics: A Step-by-Step Guide
A flawless lipstick application can pull your entire look together. Start by prepping your lips. Exfoliate them gently with a lip scrub, then hydrate with a good lip balm. This results in a smoother canvas for your lipstick.
Next, outline your lips with a lip liner that matches your chosen lipstick shade. This will ensure your lipstick stays in place and doesn’t bleed outside the lines. Finally, apply your lipstick in thin layers, starting from the center of your lips and working your way out. Remember to blot in between layers for a longer-lasting effect.
Top Lipstick Brands for Makeup Beginners
Finding a lipstick formula you love is equally important as finding the perfect shade. MAC lipsticks are well-loved for their wide range of shades and comfortable formulas. Their shade ‘Ruby Woo’ is a must-try for any red lipstick lovers.
For those on a budget, NYX Professional Makeup’s Soft Matte Lip Cream is a great option. It offers a comfortable, long-lasting matte finish in an impressive range of shades. Revlon’s Super Lustrous Lipstick is another affordable, beginner-friendly option that delivers high-impact color and a moisturizing formula.
