Doing roughly anything is easier if you have the right equipment. Applying makeup is certainly no different. It is worth your while to invest in quality makeup tools, & it is equally important to take care of those tools by washing them regularly. The proper, well cared for tools will make applying makeup much more fun and much easier. To that end, there are Ten tools you must have.
First of all, a good makeup sponge is a necessity. Sure, applying foundation with your fingers may be easier. However, if you use a sponge to dab on foundation you will get much better coverage. The most terrific makeup sponges should be triangle in shape so as to reach the sides of your nose and corners of your eyes. In addition, a good sponge may be used to wipe away excess blusher and flaky eye makeup.
The second must is a powder puff. Your powder puff is used to apply loose powder over your foundation, and is also valuable for makeup touch ups during the day. Use to brush and press making sure not to drag the powder onto your skin for an even result. If you wish for a lighter look, tap out excess powder onto the back of your hand before application.
Thirdly, get a good powder brush. First and foremost, it is a tool to lightly apply bronzing powder. A thick powder brush will make it easier to apply powder along your temples, neck and cheekbones. Always start with a small amount of powder and add more if necessary. The powder brush is also useful in applying blusher for a look that is a little more natural and a little less defined.
Your makeup tool set will also need to include an eye liner brush. You can use your eye liner brush to convert powdery eye shadow to eyeliner. Just apply the eye shadow with a damp eye liner brush. The eye liner brush can also be used for liquid liner. The narrow brush allows you to get right into the base of your lashes with the color.
Make sure you have a sponge applicator as well. This applicator is for the application of eye shadow to the eyelid. Pearly eye shadows should especially be applied with a sponge applicator so as to prevent the pigments from flaking onto your skin below your eyes. Start by applying on the outer corner of the eye then blend the eye shadow with your shading brush.
You will need a shading brush as well. You can create a neat and natural effect by using your shading brush to blend eye shadow. Trace your brow bone and work the eye shadow in from the outer corner of your eye toward the eyelid crease.
The seventh tool necessary for easier makeup application is an eyebrow brush. Use your eyebrow brush for the application of powder eye shadow to your eyebrows. An angled eyebrow brush will allow you to give yourself a softer finish than an eyebrow pencil. Be sure to apply the eye shadow though, keeping to the line of your eyebrow. Use small gentle strokes. You can also use your eyebrow brush to soften a line you create with an eyebrow pencil.
Eighth, get yourself a short-bristled makeup brush. Use it to apply eye shadow to the lower lid. The narrow brush of a short-bristled makeup brush will reach into the base of the lashes, which emphasizes the shape of the eye to its best advantage. Work from the outer corner of your eye and blend to the center for best results.
A lip brush will be valuable in helping your lipstick last longer. Apply the lipstick with your lip brush below the lip line and blend toward the center of your lip. When using a brush in this manner you can apply the exact amount you desire, and give yourself a more precise look in the process.
Last, but not least, make sure you have a concealer brush. This slightly flat brush can be used to help hide circles under your eyes. You can also use it to hide patches roughly the nose or any other small flaws with a neat and natural look. Make sure your concealer brush has fairly firm bristles. Soft bristles may cause an uneven finish.
By having the right tools, you can improve your makeup application both in look and efficiency. Always spend the extra dollar to get better equipment. Because, in the end, you will be glad you did.