Any true “beauty guru” can vouch for this: a proper set of makeup brushes are a foolproof tool to ensure flawless application. If you know someone who’s still using their fingers–or worse yet, a sponge–to apply foundation; consider a set of makeup brushes as a holiday gift. When cared for properly, a good set of brushes can last a lifetime, saving lots of money down the road.
[ Motives® by Loren Ridinger essential brush set - $73]
Makeup brushes are easy to use, but may require a bit of training for a newbie…
Continue reading after the jump.
Here are some great tips for brush usage, taken from The Original Beauty Bible, by Paula Begoun:
I’ve seen enough women use their brushes in a rubbing or wiping motion on the face to know how often it can happen. Many women beat at their faces with a wild brushing motion as they attempt to apply their blush and eyeshadows. There truly is an easier and more effective method. When you wipe,beat, or heavily rub the brush against the face, it may be removing what you just put on, not to mention wiping off the foundation underneath, which can result in a streaky uneven appearance. The best technique is to brush in short, light, purposeful motions that glide over the skin.
If there is a distinct line where the brushstroke was placed of if you feel an urge to use your finger to blend what youve just applied, most likely you are not using the brush properly or your brush is too stiff for a soft application. (You may also have applied your foundation too thickly or use a foundation that is too greasy, or the blush color you have chosen is too strongly pigmented for your skin color.) You should not blend anything with your fingers — use your brush or the flat, square, thin sponge you use to apply your foundation. Remember, use your sponge for applying foundation and softening edges of your blush, contour, and eyeshadows.
Something else that is critical to using brushes effectively — even though it may seem insignificant at first — is the way you pick up the powder on your brush before you apply it. Never mash or rub your brush into the powder. Rather, gently place your brush into the powder without moving the bristles. You don’t want to see the brush hair bend or splay. Always stroke through the powder evenly and always knock the excess powder off the brush before you apply it to the face. This prevents applying too much color to the first place your brush touches. When it comes to makeup, it is always easier to add than subtract!
The Original Beauty Bible $22 at Borders
The Original Beauty Bible also makes a great gift for anyone–not just the cosmetically-challenged! This book offers a comprehensive, well-researched guide to every beauty related topic imaginable–from cosmetic surgery to chosing a skincare routine. The author, Paula Begoun has been reporting on the beauty industry for more than 25 years. She is an internationally-recognized authority as a consumer advocate for the cosmetics and hair-care industries, and has appeared numerous times on shows such as Oprah and Good Morning America.
Don’t forget! Borders is still running a 30% holiday sale from now until Dec. 24th. Just use the promo code BAC1226X at checkout!
Love,
Loren
As a Motives consultant, I already own the Beauty Bible. It’s a great resource for anyone, professional or not.
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