Ten Do’s and Don’ts of Makeup to Follow

Makeup is art and expression. Some rules you abide by, others you regard as amiss. Out of the all the advice from my past as a makeup artist, these are the ten do’s and don’ts of makeup to follow:

DON’T follow every makeup recommendation

Makeup is not medicine. There might be tips and tricks, but there are no set rules. This may seem contradictory from me naming this post ‘makeup to follow’, but this is also about taking in opinion and gaining knowledge.

Just because an artist swears by a foundation or product, do not just decide to buy. Always try first to avoid disappointment.

DON’T follow the crowd

With social-media playing a huge role in dictating trends, it’s easy to get caught up. Step outside the social bubble however, because there’s an array of different styles and trends.

DON’T be afraid of change

There could be an eye shadow colour that looks amazing against your eyes, yet you are afraid to experiment. If you don’t try something, how will you know if it’s not your style?

DON’T try cosmetics in store without cleaning

Anything powder-based needs wiping with a tissue. Lipsticks need sterilising – you can use antibacterial with tissue, and mascara wands should be a disposable. Always sharpen eye pencils before applying anywhere near your eyes.

DON’T compete with makeup artist kits

A makeup artist’s kit contains products for every skin type and tone. There’s a fluorescent pink in there that the MUA wouldn’t wear – but may come in handy. There’s no point trying to compete because you will end up with unused cosmetics. Stick to buying what’s relevant.

DON’T expect everything from products

Tools are just tools without technique. It’s important to understand how to maximise the best out of an item. Thankfully, there’s plenty of online guidance.

DON’T forget about skincare

A good skincare routine is the basis of great makeup. Even when I suffered from severe acne, knowing how to make my skin feel hydrated and as smooth as possible, affected my coverage and confidence.

In the factory, we make cosmetics; in the drugstore we sell hope – Charles Revson

DON’T mistreat your beauty kit

Makeup brushes last longer when cleaned on a routine basis. Likewise, to prevent beauty products from smashing or turning into loose pigment, consider bubble wrap when travelling.

DON’T just follow application

When replicating a YouTube beauty guru, think about the distinctions between your appearance. If they have a small forehead for example, highlighting in the centre works well. If your forehead is much wider, you would ideally contour your temples.

DON’T apply makeup far away

If you’re not close enough to your mirror, you can fail to coat each eyelash with mascara correctly. Additionally, you might line your lips wrong or trace eye liner wonky. When precision’s required – get up close and personal.

DO book a makeover

Either at a makeup counter or beauty salon. Research a company whose artists you trust and find inspiration beforehand. You might be surprised at how another pair of eyes see your face. Equally, you can book a makeup lesson.

A girl can never have too many lipstick options – Zoe Sugg

DO keep organised

An organised kit makes your mornings much easier. Plus, it keeps you up-to-date on what’s running out.

DO use a concealer

Foundation’s purpose is to primarily even-out your skin. If you are using more than two pumps or struggling with coverage, add a concealer. A liquid is superb for under-eye and a stick or cream builds coverage on your face.

DO blend before reapplying

Let’s say you’re heading out for after work drinks. Before you sweep on extra makeup to take you through the night, blend what’s already on your skin. This helps to look fresh and as though it’s newly applied.

DO get comfortable with red

I have written an entire post covering all on red lipstick. You can read that here: Red Lipstick Do’s and Don’ts . It was a colour once worn by everyone, so be open-minded before saying it doesn’t suit.

There’s lots of things you pull out lipstick for – L’wren Scott

DO use a powder puff

Fantastic if you have oily skin. A powder puff creates a more concentrated application and that in itself, reduces the risk of shine. Wash with water and soap every couple of days and leave to dry overnight wrapped in tissue.

DO apply in good lighting

My favourite makeup to follow tip. Lighting is incredibly significant. Bathrooms – being smaller and typically brighter, are perfect to check your makeup in.

DO layer and build-up

Think gradual steps instead of a giant leap. Layering is key to a flawless finish and prevents an overload of product.

DO press and not shake

If you have excess pigment on your brush, rather than shaking that everywhere, press on your hand. This ensures a concentrated amount of colour remains.

DO learn and love your best features

There’s no such thing as perfection right? – says the perfectionist. Appreciate your favourite features and place emphasis on them. Love your flaws enough to not over fixate.

What are your do’s and don’ts of makeup to follow? What’s your biggest makeup mistake?

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