Make-up application is more of art than the average make-up wearer realizes. Eye make-up is no exception, in fact even more so. Eye shadow should be fun and complement your face; application should be an opportunity to be creative and make any statement you want with your make-up.
Smooth make-up application is a skill, and like any skill, practice makes perfect. Whether you are just starting to experiment with eye make-up or are interested in learning new ways to wear eye shadow, here a few simple steps to great eye shadow application:
1. Start with a clean eyelid.
Most makeup is PH balanced, meaning the color and properties are optimized when the skin is clean and free of excess debris. If possible, use a good eye make-up remover that won’t irritate your eyes, but give you a clean and oil-free lid to begin with.
2. Apply base shadow
Apply a very thin layer of foundation or concealer under the eye to reduce any puffiness or darkness. Select a shadow brush that you like and is feels smooth on your eye. Some brushes like those made from natural fibers and are designed for eye shadow will greatly help you blend colors and create a softness difficulty achieved without a brush. For an everyday look select a neutral color that you feel most comfortable with like sand or something lightly shimmered. Apply shadow over entire lid and beneath brow (if desired).
3. Blend in crease shadow
Next choose a complementary color or tone, if you are like most women and generally stick with brown or earth tones, choose a brown that matches your complexion. If you have fair skin, choose a color that doesn’t wash away the rest of the face with too much intensity. If you have darker skin, choose something that adds depth to the face or creates contrast. With a brush, apply a darker shade in the crease of the lid starting from the outside of the lid and work toward about three quarters of lid creating a smooth gradual taper. One way to achieve this is to start with less shadow than you may need and gradually apply and blend to get the desired affect. Blending will create a velvet-like finish that will drastically affect the look of your make-up.
4. Accent
Now you have the base for your imagination to run. If you are seeking an everyday look, you might be satisfied with the two contoured colors. If you like color variations or a more dramatic look, you may want to choose a lighter color than your crease color and darker than your base. Gently work from the inner lid and crease toward the outer lid blending the colors so they naturally change from one to the other.
For a brightening affect, use your base shadow or a light shimmer to fill in the brow area (between your lid and eyebrow). You may also take a small brush and line the inner lids using a shimmer for a more sparkling eyes shadow. This will open the eyes and lighten the rest of the eye make-up. After full shadow application, you may add liner and mascara if desired.
The eyes are usually what people notice first when they see you; great eyes will introduce yourself before words can. Take some time and practice application, make sure you choose colors and products that you feel comfortable and confidant wearing.
If you have any problems choosing colors that complement your skin tone, visit your favorite cosmetics counter at you local department store retailer and get a free color consultation. The most important thing to remember is have fun, experiment with new ideas, and practice.
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