Table of contents for Makeup in Makeup

Makeup isn’t a means to cover up. It’s a way to express oneself. Cat-eye eyeliner or a swipe of bold lipstick can be a medium for creativity and self-empowerment. And while there are hacks that will simplify creating both bold and subtle looks, there are no rules about how you should and shouldn’t wear certain colors and products—the right way to wear makeup is however you like! Whether you’ve just purchased your first set of makeup products or enjoy experimenting by trying new looks you’ve seen on social media, the following pages are filled with tips on how to use classic makeup techniques, plus inspiration to spice up your current routine. Think of this book as having a professional makeup artist at your fingertips.…

1. SKIN PREP A thorough skincare routine will help makeup adhere better to the skin and go on evenly. While the exact skincare products you use will vary based on your skin type, a brightening eye cream, lip balm, moisturizer and sunscreen will typically suffice. 2. PRIMER Makeup primer is a completely optional step, but it will result in a smoother application. Oily skin typically benefits the most from using a primer, but it also is helpful in the summer when sweat can cause makeup to smudge or run or if you want your makeup to hold up throughout an event like a wedding. 3. BROWS AND EYES While most people apply their complexion products after the primer, doing your brows and eyes first will make it easy to clean…

USE MULTIPLE BRUSHES “You need at least three to four clean brushes for the smoky eye,” says Flynn Pyykkonen, a New York City–based makeup artist: “One for the whole lid, one for the crease, one for the brow bone, and one to blend and add color.” Using only one brush can cause the result to look like a black eye. START OFF SMALL Pyykkonen says that dark eyeshadows typically used for a smoky eye are what make the look intimidating. Instead, she recommends starting off with a soft brown, then working your way up to chocolate brown or black. It’s also important to layer the shadows. “You don’t have to do the smoky eye all in one brush stroke,” she adds. “Layer the colors.” APPLY THE EYESHADOWS IN THE CORRECT…

Kohl Pencil This product is the eyeliner equivalent of a No. 2 pencil. Kohl refers to the dark pigment of the eyeliner and its supersoft formula. This eyeliner is ideal for doing a tightline, natural definition or a smoky, smudgy look. Gel Pencil A gel pencil is arguably the easiest type of eyeliner to use because the creamy formula glides on smooth, yet doesn’t require touch-ups because it’s smudge-proof. These benefits are exactly what make it ideal for beginners and for creating a variety of eyeliner styles, from natural definition to negative space looks. Liquid Eyeliner A liquid eyeliner is like drawing with a fine felt-tip marker: it’s heavily pigmented and ideal for drawing bold, precise lines such as a cat eye. Colored Eyeliner Black, brown and navy eyeliners are…

KNOW YOUR UNDERTONES “The key to picking the perfect red is understanding the undertones of your skin as well as the undertones of the lipstick and how they blend together,” explains Alexa Persico, a celebrity makeup artist. “To identify your skin’s undertones, simply check your wrist. If your veins appear more purple-ish, you have cool undertones. If the veins are more green, choose a warmer red. And a mix of the two? Stick in between a cool and warm medium-toned red lipstick.” SHADE MATCH Once you’ve figured out your skin’s undertone, it’s time to shade match. Persico suggests that people with fair skin tones opt for a blue or pink-based red. “These red lipsticks will pick up the pink tones in your complexion and really make your smile pop,” she…

1. DO EXTENSIONS DAMAGE YOUR NATURAL EYELASHES? One of the biggest myths about eyelash extensions is that they’ll make your natural lashes fall out. But a trained, licensed technician will know how to properly apply the extensions so that your natural lashes aren’t damaged. 2. DO EXTENSIONS LOOK THE SAME ON EVERYONE? The short answer? No. Lash extensions can be customized to suit your lifestyle and your lash goals. The technician will do a consultation at the beginning of the appointment to discuss your desired results and your individual lash concerns before determining the length and thickness that your natural lashes will be able to support. 3. ARE EXTENSIONS UNCOMFORTABLE? You won’t be able to feel the eyelash extensions if they’re applied properly. However, the extensions can be uncomfortable if…

Pat McGrath Labs Dame Pat McGrath is one of the most influential and celebrated makeup artists of our time. Her runway makeup looks dictate future trends and her makeup brand’s products are just as legendary. Her eyeshadow palettes have gained cult status because of their super-pigmented formulas and innovative, glitzy shimmer finishes. Urban Decay No brand does a neutral eyeshadow palette like Urban Decay. After launching the best-selling original Naked Palette, Urban Decay has created a number of spawns with nuanced color schemes, all just as popular. ColourPop ColourPop palettes are noteworthy because they offer the most bang for your buck. The formulas are long-wearing, they offer impressive color payoff in a variety of finishes, and a 30-pan palette sets you back just $34. Huda Beauty One of the original…

EASE THE CONFUSION BY FOLLOWING THESE CONTOURING TIPS. 1. CONSIDER YOUR FORMULATION While cream contour products are easiest to blend, they’re not one-skin-type-fits-all. If you have balanced to combination skin (a mix of less oily and dry areas), use cream. If you have oily skin, opt for a powder formula. Cream contour is also great for novices. “If you are 100% new to the whole contouring world, I would recommend sticking with creams, as they are easier to build and use,” celebrity makeup artist Alexa Persico advises. “The pigment of some powder formulas might be lighter, but it also can be trickier to apply if you are a newbie.” 2. LESS IS MORE Persico recommends starting off with a little product on the brush. “Remember, you can always add more,”…

Maybelline New York Recreating fashion-forward makeup looks is easy (and affordable) thanks to Maybelline. The bestselling makeup brand creates products inspired by the latest beauty trends. L’Oréal Paris One of the most reliable brands at the drugstore, L’Oréal Paris offers staple products that cater to every makeup style and concern. Along with the core collection, the brand also makes the Age Perfect line, a set of products catering to mature skin. NYX Professional Makeup This brand is known for its high-performance formulations with impeccable textures. No wonder many of the products have gone viral on TikTok. Cover Girl The classic drugstore brand is evolving with the times. In 2018, Cover Girl was Leaping Bunny approved by Cruelty-Free International, meaning none of its products are tested on animals, no matter where…

1. Sunburnt Glow A fake just-got-back-from-the-beach glow is the next best thing to a tropical vacation, plus it can be achieved without the sun exposure. Simply apply your blush in a “W” shape across your nose bridge to connect both cheeks for a sun-kissed look. 2. Use the Leftovers After blending cream blush onto your cheeks, tie a natural, glowy makeup look together by applying the excess product to your eyelids in lieu of an eyeshadow. 3. Set Your Blush with a Tissue While translucent powder excels at setting makeup, it can make blush appear dull. Instead, hold a tissue against your cheek, then gently tap a makeup sponge over it to remove any excess blush without altering the color.…

Charlotte Tilbury Beautiful Skin Foundation Whenever you scroll through #MakeupTok, you’re bound to come across a Charlotte Tilbury product (or two) because the brand has become a favorite among creators. The Beautiful Skin Foundation is one of its latest products to go viral for its medium-coverage, dewy finish that leaves skin with a natural glow. Maybelline New York Sky High Mascara Maybelline never disappoints in the mascara department, but this formula sent TikTokers into a frenzy because it lengthens, curls and thickens lashes in a single coat. Think of it as lash extensions in a $13 tube. Valentino Twin Liner Gel and Liquid Eyeliner This $40 eyeliner sold out in just three hours after appearing in one of Nogueira’s videos. So what makes this liner worth the splurge? It’s like…

Matte lipstick is creamy and extremely pigmented so it delivers bold, opaque color payoff with a shine-free finish. It comes in a classic tube and can be applied straight from the bullet or with a lip brush. Satin lipstick formulas are softer than a matte lipstick and offer a creamy finish for a natural lip look. While color payoff is more subtle, a satin lipstick can be layered for a more dramatic finish. Lip gloss is a liquid product with a supershiny finish and can be tinted for a subtle wash of color. It’s easy to apply, thanks to its doe-foot applicator. Liquid lipstick is just like a lip gloss and comes in a tube with a doe-foot applicator. But the similarities stop there: this product dries down to a…

Individual Eyelashes If you prefer lashes that look like yours, just better, individual lashes can fill sparse areas and add fullness. They come in different lengths and can be applied exactly where you need them based on your eye shape and natural lashes. Cluster Eyelashes Also known as “flares” or “accents,” these false lashes are easier to apply than a full strip and are less likely to lift mid-wear. They can be applied strategically on specific areas of the lash line for a custom look. Strip Eyelashes These strips are placed along your lash line with adhesive in one fell swoop. Brands offer strips in a number of shapes, lengths and sizes, so you’ll be able to find a set that suits your desired result. Magnetic Eyelashes New to falsies?…

Skipping Skin Prep Regardless of your age or skin type, properly prepping the skin for makeup is essential for your products to blend properly. A fully hydrated face will help your makeup go on smooth and even. Applying Makeup in Poor Lighting Putting on makeup in dim or fluorescent lighting will always result in missing a spot or two. While natural lighting is ideal for applying makeup, a makeup mirror with warm LED lighting is the next best option. Using a Dry Makeup Sponge A makeup sponge is foolproof for getting a smooth, blended finish when using liquid and cream products like foundation, concealer and blush—as long as it’s damp. Just make sure you fully wring out the excess water before using it. Applying Foundation Before Eye Makeup It seems…

FACE GEMS Decorating your brow bone, corner of the eye or along the lash line with face gems adds sparkle to any eye makeup look, whether it’s minimal or bold. And the placement of the gems is completely customizable, so the look will always be unique to you. DRAPED BLUSH This dramatic look was made famous by Cher’s makeup artist Way Bandy in the ’70s. While Studio 54 has long shut down, you can channel the glamour of the decade with sculpted rosy cheeks. HIGH-SHINE LIPSTICK With so many beauty trends from the turn of the millennium (the year 2000) making a comeback, it was only a matter of time before lacquered lips got a second run, too. Unlike a sheer lip gloss, this look is bold and pigmented. Whenever…

Makeup products don’t have age limits on their labels. It doesn’t matter what decade you’re in, you can enhance your favorite features and express yourself by lining your eyelids with eyeliner or swiping on a hot pink lipstick. What does change with age is the types of products you use and how you may apply them. Here you’ll find ingenious makeup tips for women over 40. DON’T SKIP ON SKINCARE PREP While you may be reaching for hydrating makeup products when you’re over 40, it’s still imperative to prep your skin before creating your look. Properly cleansing and hydrating the skin with a gentle cleanser, nourishing eye cream and rich moisturizer will prevent the products from accentuating dryness, fine lines and wrinkles. And who doesn’t want a smooth makeup application?…

“This technique gives the appearance that one isn’t wearing much makeup or any at all,” confirms Neil Scibelli, a New York City–based celebrity makeup artist. “This is achieved by using a more sheer application of makeup and going for products that offer a more natural finish.” HERE’S HOW TO GET IT DONE. Skin Prep The idea of no-makeup makeup is that your natural skin will show through the products. Proper skincare prep is key because soft, moisturized skin sets the foundation for the look. “Invest in skincare that addresses your skin’s concerns, whether it be dryness so that your tinted moisturizer glides on smoother, or work on brightening hyperpigmentation so that you’ll eventually want to conceal less,” Scibelli suggests. “It’s also important to invest in your nighttime skincare regimen so…

UNDERSTAND THE MAKEUP ARTIST’S AESTHETIC When you’re investigating makeup artists for your wedding day, Flynn Pyykkonen, a New York City–based makeup artist, says it’s important to like their aesthetic. Do your due diligence and scroll through their Instagram feeds or websites for a portfolio of their past work. If that’s not an option, any credible artist will supply photos upon request. MAKE SURE PERSONALITIES MESH The emotions are going to be high on your wedding day, so you want to feel comfortable with everyone who’s in the room while you’re getting ready. “Personalities need to vibe because your artist is going to be with you from early in the morning to potentially midday,” Pyykkonen says. “Your makeup artist is going to help set the tone for your day and you…

1. Check Expiration Dates At the start of each season, toss out any expired products to keep your collection streamlined. Whenever you open a product, write the date on the packaging to help you keep track when it’s time to say goodbye to it. 2. Group Products into Categories The simplest way to store your products is by category. This way you won’t be digging through a container full of eyeliners, mascaras and brow pencils just to find your everyday shade of pink lipstick. 3. Take Measurements Before purchasing any storage containers for your makeup, measure the space you plan to put them in. It’s also important to measure the containers themselves so you know how they’ll fit into cupboards and drawers, along with how many products will fit inside…

1. Grab a coffee mug or a cup and fill it with warm water. 2. Add a dollop of shampoo or facial cleanser to the water and swirl the brush in it. 3. Massage the bristles with clean fingertips to remove any residue. 4. Rinse with clean water and gently squeeze out the excess. 5. Lay flat on a paper towel to dry.…

Pressed Powder Pressed powder is the most common type of eyeshadow. These formulas have buildable pigment, so they can be diffused for a sheer wash of color or packed on for a bold opaque finish. Pressed powders also come in a variety of finishes like matte, satin, shimmer and duo chrome. They can be worn alone or mixed and matched for a custom look. Loose Powder While loose pigments offer extreme color payoff (or sparkle in the case of glitter), they can be messy due to fallout. However, the potential cleanup is worth it when your final look is Instagram-worthy. For even more vibrancy, apply the pigments with a damp brush. Cream Eyeshadow Cream eyeshadows blend seamlessly onto the eyelids with little effort. They can be applied with a brush…

TIGHTLINE EYELINER Eyeliner is applied to the waterline (the area inside the lash line) to define your eye shape and create the illusion of a fuller lash line. A waterproof gel pencil is your best bet for a tightline because it won’t sting the eye. And while this technique is often done in black liner, blondes with fair skin may prefer to use brown because it won’t look as harsh. CAT EYE Whether it’s called a cat eye or a winged liner, this timeless style looks good on everyone. While it looks simple, it does take a bit of finessing to master the cat eye. Once you figure out how the wing will look on your eye shape, draw the outline with a liquid eyeliner and fill it in. Then…

1. Find Your Light Good lighting is the key to taking a selfie that does your makeup justice. Take advantage of natural light if you can, snapping your photo during the midmorning to late afternoon. If you have a window that lets in indirect natural light, stand facing it. And when using an artificial light source, like a ring light, setting it at eye-level will be the most flattering. 2. Consider Your Background Your background will impact the quality of your selfie, too. If you have a space with natural light and white walls, the light coming in will reflect back onto your face. If you stand in a room with bright painted walls, they can distort your skin tone and create shadows. 3. Know Your Angles Finding your preferred…

SKIN PREP PRODUCTS Any professional makeup artist will tell you that skincare prep is the important first step in every makeup look. While your exact pre-makeup skincare routine products will vary based on your skin type and concerns, eye cream, moisturizer, lip balm and sunscreen will help anyone achieve a flawless makeup application. FOUNDATION Whether you’re into full-coverage or prefer a natural, second-skin finish, foundation is a must-have in any makeup kit because it will create an even base to build upon with bronzer, blush and highlighter. CONCEALER Concealer is the unsung hero of every makeup look because you can apply it on spots that need extra coverage or it can be worn on its own as a spot treatment to cover blemishes, redness around the nose and hyperpigmentation. BLUSH,…

Dior Rouge Dior Lipstick in Red 999 This shade is designed to be the perfect bold red on all skin tones. The formula is matte, but it’s infused with nourishing ingredients so that it wears comfortably on the lips. Clinique Almost Lipstick in Black Honey A hybrid between a lip balm and a lipstick, this formula delivers a sheer berry tint that adapts to your skin tone and has a soft, balmy finish. Black Honey first debuted in 1971, but became a staple on the red carpet and in TV and movies in the 1990s and after. MAC Cosmetics Matte Lipstick in Heroine While Heroine started off as a limited-edition shade, its legions of devoted fans influenced the brand to make the violet matte lipstick a permanent part of its…

Microblading Microblading is like embroidery for your brows: a special microblading pen with a blade is used to etch pigment into the skin in small strokes that mimic the look of hair. Expect a microblading appointment to take 30 minutes to an hour. After a consultation to determine your ideal look, the technician will map your brows, you’ll review the design and then your brows will be numbed and microbladed. The result is full, realistic-looking brows that can last from eight to 18 months. Microfeathering Microfeathering is a take on the popular microblading treatment. What makes it different from the original technique is that the hair-like strokes are added to the natural brow shape to create the illusion of full, fluffy brows. Microfeathering requires two appointments: after the initial treatment,…

NARS Orgasm Blush The name is attention-grabbing on its own, but the real reason why this blush has become a cult favorite? It offers a soft, natural flush for every skin tone. Lancôme Juicy Tubes Despite all the lip gloss options out there, Lancôme’s rainbow of Juicy Tubes remains popular for its tinted, high-shine (never sticky) finish. When it launched in 2000, it became the first-ever lip gloss to come in a tube. Maybelline Great Lash Mascara While the bottle design has changed, the pink and green color scheme has stayed the same since this mascara launched in 1971. The best-selling drugstore formula glides on smooth and has a volume-building brush to create the look of full, thick lashes. Yves Saint Laurent Touche Éclat This innovative highlighting pen is the…

Honest Beauty by Jessica Alba The star’s brand Honest Beauty is a pioneer in the clean beauty space. Along with skincare and personal care products, the brand has a makeup collection that’s perfect for everyday makeup looks. Fenty Beauty by Rihanna Rihanna changed the beauty industry in 2017 when she launched Fenty Beauty with 40 shades of foundation. Fenty products’ inclusive shade ranges are now a benchmark for other makeup brands. about-face by Halsey Singer Halsey’s makeup collection has quickly achieved cult status since launching in 2020 for its super-pigmented, long-wear color cosmetics. Rare Beauty by Selena Gomez Not only do Rare Beauty’s products perform well, but the brand gives its shades uplifting, positive names like “Encourage,” “Captivate” and “Always an Optimist” as a nod to the brand’s mantra of…

In recent years, a number of beauty brands have caught on to the fact that anyone can wear makeup. It’s now common to see gender identities besides women in makeup campaigns and a number of diverse creators to follow on social media. While makeup doesn’t need to be gender-specific, there are products specifically marketed toward men and their everyday skincare needs. Typically, the products will include lightweight foundations and concealers to perfect skin and eyebrow gels and pencils to groom brows. Chanel’s Boy de Chanel is one example of a makeup line made specifically for men, while War Paint for Men is a U.K.-based male makeup brand. Men wearing makeup is becoming normalized in North America, but it’s long been a part of Asian culture. In South Korea, many young…

Prep with a Primer While a primer might not always seem necessary, it will create a smooth base for even application and will help grip makeup. Switch to Waterproof Mascara It might seem obvious, but it needs to be said: a waterproof mascara won’t smudge or run in the heat. Opt for a Tinted Moisturizer Full-coverage foundation can feel heavy on a hot summer day, not to mention that sweat can cause the color to oxidize. Switch to a lightweight tinted moisturizer to keep your complexion crease-free throughout the day, and apply concealer only on areas where you want more coverage, like the under-eyes, around the nose and any blemishes. Finish with a Setting Spray Once your makeup is finished, lock it in place with a setting spray. This final…