Flawless Makeup: Are You Using the Right Tools?

Like organizing our closets we must from time to time clean out our makeup cabinets and make sure what we have is still working for us. If you want flawless makeup and professional looking results you must use the correct makeup tools. The right blush brush for example, will make it possible that your blush gives you a perfect glow rather than a harsh streak or blob. Also, the right tools are necessary to do the job correctly - to define and conceal.

ESSENTIAL TOOLS:

Sponge: A sponge makes it possible to get into difficult spots and controls makeup application; used correctly a sponge will give your foundation an even finish. A sponge is great for touch-ups and is less likely to pull on the skin. Buy them in bulk and change them often.

Brushes: A good blush brush is soft with bristles that are about 1½ inches. Don't use the small, hard brushes that come in compacts because it will be difficult to get a nice even finish. An eye shadow brush should also be soft. Look for a lipstick brush that is retractable. It helps keep the brush clean and in great shape. A blending brush should be about ½ wide and will help blend the different color eye shadows together to create a natural look. Use a brow brush to keep eyebrows under control and give them a smooth look. Your powder brush should be large, soft, firm and fluffy.

Eyelash curler: An eyelash curler is a must if you have short, straight eyelashes or just straight eyelashes. An eyelash curler (along with mascara) will give your eyelashes the appearance of being longer.

Tweezers: Have tweezers close by to keep your eyebrows well groomed. Well-groomed eyebrows will open the eye.

ESSENTIAL PRODUCTS

Cleanser: To have radiant skin you must keep it clean. A cleanser that is compatible with your skin type will do that and keep it moisturized.

Moisturizer: Moisturizers will keep your face feeling fresh and will help foundation glide on. Choose one that is compatible with your skin type.

Exfoliant: Exfoliants do a great job keeping dry patches to a minimum and will get rid of flaky skin.

Foundation: Foundations give the skin an even look and will protect it from the elements. You should be able to see your skin through your foundation. It shouldn't look like a mask.

Powder: Whether you choose loose powder or a powder compact powder will give your face the final touch, keep your makeup in place and get rid of shine.

Mascara: The best mascara brush has wide spaces and does not cause mascara to clump. Only wear waterproof when you plan to get wet and change your mascara every 3 months to avoid it drying out or attracting bacteria.

Blush: Blush can be powdered or cream. A cream blush is harder to apply and is best for those with dry skin. A powder blush will go on much easier.

Eyebrow Pencil: Use an eyebrow pencil if your eyebrows are thin or to fill in gaps. Choose a color that is a shade lighter than your hair.

Eyeliner: Keep the edges rounded for a softer look; when applying make sure the eyeliner is in the lash line.

Eye shadow: Powder shadows are easier to apply than creams. Use a matte shadow if you have wrinkles around the eyes and keep eye shadow light.

Lip liner: To outline the lips choose a shade that complements your lipstick.

Lipstick: Use a shade that complements your skin tone.

Sheila Dicks is an Image and Wardrobe consultant who helps women feel more confident by dressing to suit their body type. To get tips on how to dress slimmer and find your best styles get a copy of her ebook "Image Makeover" at http://www.how-to-dress.com or go to http://www.sheilasfashionsense.com to get the Free Report " 7 Things Your Girlfriends Won't Tell You About Beauty and Fashion".