Makeup can be intimidating, especially for beginners just starting to explore the world of cosmetics. From foundation and eyeshadow to lipstick and blush, there are countless products and techniques to learn. But don’t worry; with a few helpful tips and practice, anyone can master the art of makeup application. 

In this article, we’ll share 26 makeup tips for beginners, so you can start experimenting and feeling confident in your makeup skills. Whether you want to enhance your natural features or create a bold new look, these tips will help you achieve your desired results. So, grab your brushes, and let’s get started!

Preparation Tips

1. Proper Skincare Routine

It is important to start with a clean, moisturized face before applying any makeup. A skincare routine that suits your skin type and addresses any concerns like dryness, oiliness, or acne can make a huge difference in the appearance of your makeup. Cleansing, toning, and moisturizing are the three basic steps that should be included in your skincare routine.

2. Choosing the Right Foundation

Picking the right foundation is crucial to achieving a seamless and natural-looking finish. Consider factors such as your skin type, skin tone, and coverage level you desire when selecting a foundation. Be sure to test the shade on your neck or jawline and choose one that matches your skin tone as closely as possible.

3. Prepping the Skin With a Primer

Primer helps to smooth out the skin’s texture and create a barrier between the skin and makeup, allowing the makeup to last longer. Choose a primer that is suitable for your skin type and concerns. For example, a silicone-based primer can help to fill in pores, while a hydrating primer can provide extra moisture to dry skin.

4. Using the Right Tools

Using the right makeup tools can make a significant difference in the overall appearance of your makeup. For example, using a beauty blender to apply foundation can create a natural and airbrushed finish, while a flat brush can provide more coverage. Invest in high-quality tools such as brushes, sponges, and applicators, and clean them regularly to ensure they are free from bacteria and debris.

Face Makeup Tips

Face Makeup Tips

Face makeup can transform your look and make your skin appear flawless, but it can also be intimidating for beginners. Here are some tips on applying foundation, concealer, contouring and highlighting, blush, and setting powder to achieve beautiful, natural-looking face makeup.

5. Applying Foundation

  • Choose a foundation that matches your skin tone and type. Test it on your jawline to ensure it blends seamlessly with your skin.
  • Apply the foundation in thin layers with a brush, sponge, or fingers. Start in the center of your face and blend outwards towards your hairline and jawline.
  • Use a beauty blender or sponge to blend any streaks or uneven areas.
  • Set the foundation with powder for longer-lasting wear.

6. Applying Concealer

  • Apply concealer after foundation to cover any blemishes, dark circles, or redness.
  • Choose a concealer one to two shades lighter than your foundation for brightening effects.
  • Apply the concealer using a brush, sponge, or fingers and blend outwards.
  • Set the concealer with powder to prevent creasing.

7. Contouring and Highlighting

  • Use a contour kit with a matte brown shade to define your cheekbones, jawline, and forehead. Apply it in the hollows of your cheeks and blend upwards towards your temples.
  • Use a highlighter on the high points of your face, including your cheekbones, brow bone, and nose bridge.
  • Blend well to create a natural-looking effect.

8. Applying Blush

  • Choose a blush color that complements your skin tone.
  • Apply the blush on the apples of your cheeks and blend upwards towards your temples.
  • Be sure to blend well to avoid harsh lines.

9. Setting the Face With Powder

  • Use a translucent powder to set your face makeup.
  • Use a fluffy brush to apply the powder pressingly, focusing on oily areas such as the T-zone.
  • Use a setting spray to help your makeup last longer.

Eye Makeup Tips

Eye Makeup Tips

Eye makeup can enhance and define the eyes, making them look brighter, more awake, and more beautiful. Here are some tips for applying eyeshadow, eyeliner, curling eyelashes, applying mascara, and filling in eyebrows:

10. Applying Eyeshadow

  • Start with a clean, primed eyelid to help the eyeshadow adhere better and last longer.
  • Use a light shade over the lid as a base, then layer darker shades in the crease and outer corner to add dimension.
  • Blend well with a clean brush or your fingers to avoid harsh lines.

11. Applying Eyeliner

  • Choose a formula and color that suits your eye shape and skin tone.
  • To create a precise line, use a liquid liner with a fine tip or a gel liner with an angled brush.
  • Use a pencil liner and smudge the line with a brush or finger for a softer look.
  • If you have trouble applying liner evenly, try applying small dots or dashes along the lash line and then connect them.

12. Curling Eyelashes

  • Use an eyelash curler before applying mascara to lift and curl your lashes.
  • Hold the curler at the base of your lashes, press for a few seconds, and then release.
  • Heat the curler with a hair dryer for a more intense curl for a few seconds before using it (but be careful not to overheat it!).

13. Applying Mascara

  • Choose a formula and brush that give you a look you want (length, volume, curl, etc.).
  • Wiggle the brush at the base of your lashes, then sweep it upward to coat them evenly.
  • Apply a second or third coat as desired, but avoid letting the mascara dry between coats.
  • If you get mascara on your skin, wait for it to dry and gently remove it with a cotton swab.

14. Filling in Eyebrows

  • Choose a shade that matches your natural hair color or is slightly lighter.
  • Use a pencil or powder and an angled brush to fill in sparse areas or define the shape of your brows.
  • Use short, feathery strokes to mimic the look of natural hairs.
  • Blend well with a spoolie brush to avoid harsh lines or clumps.

Lip Makeup Tips

Lip Makeup Tips

Lip makeup is an essential part of any makeup look, and it can be challenging to master the techniques of choosing the right lip color, and applying lip liner, lipstick, and lip gloss. Here are some helpful tips to help you achieve a flawless lip makeup look:

15. Choosing the Right Lip Color

Choosing the right lip color is essential for a stunning makeup look. It’s essential to consider your skin tone and the occasion you’re dressing up for. Fair-skinned individuals should opt for lighter shades, while darker skin tones should go for bold colors like red and deep berry hues. Neutral colors like nude and pink are versatile and go well with any skin tone.

16. Applying Lip Liner

Lip liner helps create a defined lip shape and helps keep lipstick from bleeding or smudging. To apply lip liner correctly, start by outlining the lips with the same color as your lipstick or a shade darker. You can then fill in the rest of your lips with the liner or use it as a base for your lipstick.

17. Applying Lipstick

To apply lipstick, start by filling in the center of your lips and work your way outward. Use a lip brush for precision or apply directly from the lipstick bullet. Blot with a tissue to remove excess and set with powder for longevity.

18. Applying Lip Gloss

Lip gloss adds a pop of shine to any makeup look. Apply it on top of lipstick or use it alone for a more natural look. Use a clear or neutral shade for a subtle look, or go bold with glitter or bright colors.

Makeup Application Tips

Makeup applications can be tricky and intimidating, especially for beginners. However, one can achieve a flawless look by following some makeup application tips. Here are some tips that can help you in your makeup application:

19. Applying Makeup in Natural Light

Natural light is the best light to apply makeup. It provides a true reflection of your skin and helps you choose the right makeup shade. If you don’t have access to natural light, try using a lighted makeup mirror with a color-accurate light source.

20. Blending Properly

Blending is the key to achieving a flawless finish. Use a brush or sponge to blend your foundation properly, concealer, and other products. Blend in circular motions for a natural-looking finish.

21. Layering Makeup

Layering your makeup products can help you achieve a long-lasting look. Start with a primer, then a foundation, concealer, powder, blush, etc. Layering helps to build a perfect base for your makeup.

22. Building up the Intensity

Building up intensity means gradually increasing the amount of product to achieve the desired look. For example, start with a light coat of mascara and build it up to your desired thickness.

23. Removing Makeup

Removing your makeup at the end of the day is essential to keep your skin healthy. Use a gentle makeup remover or micellar water to remove your makeup. Avoid using harsh products that can damage your skin.

Makeup Tools and Storage Tips

Makeup tools and storage are essential to maintaining good hygiene and extending the lifespan of your products. Here are some tips for cleaning your makeup brushes, organizing your makeup products, and properly storing your makeup.

24. Cleaning Makeup Brushes

Makeup brushes should be cleaned regularly to remove bacteria and buildup from makeup products. Use a mild shampoo or brush cleaner and warm water to clean your makeup brushes. Swirl the brush in the soapy water and rinse it thoroughly. Be sure to lay the brushes flat to dry to avoid water damage to the bristles.

25. Organizing Makeup Products

Organizing your makeup products will help you find what you need quickly and easily. A simple way to organize is to categorize your products by type and store them in clear containers or makeup organizers. You can also use dividers to separate products in drawers or on shelves.

26. Proper Storage of Makeup

Proper storage of your makeup products can help to extend their shelf life. Store your products in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid keeping your makeup products in the bathroom, as the humidity can cause bacteria growth. Additionally, be sure to check the expiration dates on your products and discard any that have expired.

Conclusion

Applying makeup can be intimidating for beginners, but it can become a fun and creative experience with the right tips and techniques. By following these 26 makeup tips, you can create a flawless makeup look that highlights your best features and expresses your style. 

Remember to care for your skin, choose the right makeup products, and practice your application skills. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different colors and techniques, and most importantly, have fun with them! With a little patience and practice, anyone can become a makeup pro.