Makeup is an amazing tool. Anyone can put on a face full of makeup and feel transformed instantly. Whether makeup is used to create drama, cover blemishes, or simply brighten up the face, no outfit is complete without an appropriate makeup look. Makeup is also highly flexible. After learning about makeup, people can decide for themselves whether they want to wear a full face of foundation or just a light coat of mascara.
The first thing to know about makeup is that practice is key. Don’t be afraid to jump in and learn as much as you can, because the best way to become makeup proficient is to understand how other people use it. Follow makeup artists on Instagram, watch tutorials on YouTube, and practice new techniques as often as possible.
Must-Have Makeup
There are dozens of types of makeup out there, but don’t worry. There are a few makeup items that beginners can learn easily. The three makeup items that all makeup novices should learn first are:
- Mascara
- Brow pencil
- Lipstick
Mascara is a foundational piece of makeup. No look is complete without it. A good mascara will bring out your eyes by darkening and lengthening your eyelashes. Once you find the right mascara for you, you’ll never go out without it again.
Brow pencil is often overlooked by makeup novices, but it can make a huge difference in a look. Lightly penciling in sparse areas to create a more defined, neat shape brings dimension and clarity to the face.
Lipstick is the classic makeup product, and for good reason. There are a huge variety of lip products, including lipstick, lip stain, and lip gloss, all of which lend a different feel to a makeup look. The color is also important. Dress a makeup look up with a bold red lipstick, or stay natural with a nude gloss.
Tips For Proper Use
The way someone’s makeup looks can make or break their look overall. For example, if you’ve ever seen someone wearing way too much makeup at work or school, you know how mismatched makeup can stand out. On the other hand, intense makeup can be striking and gorgeous when used in the right context, such as at a nightclub or party.
Another tip to make sure your makeup enhances your look, rather than overshadows it, is to coordinate your makeup colors with your outfit. Matching too closely is also a potential pitfall, however. Choose colors that don’t match your clothes exactly, but that look good together and are in the same color family.
On the other hand, makeup is all about creativity. After learning the basics, don’t be afraid to experiment. Makeup trends are always changing, so join in and try new things.
Makeup Subscription Boxes
Makeup subscription boxes are a great and inexpensive way to try new makeup. Subscription box services charge a monthly fee (usually between $10-$30) to send out a box of makeup that changes month to month. Some subscription boxes send out sample sizes, while others offer full-size products. There are dozens of subscription boxes to choose from. Three of the most popular are:
- BoxyCharm - BoxyCharm is $25 a month for 6 makeup products, 4 of which are guaranteed to be full size. Subscribers can choose 1 product a month, while the rest are based on account preferences.
- Ipsy - Ipsy charges $12 a month for 5 deluxe samples, making it an affordable way to try a wide variety of products without too much commitment. Every month includes a unique mini makeup bag.
- Allure Beauty Box - Allure is $15 a month for at least 5 products, 2 of which are guaranteed to be full size. Customization is not available at this time.