Tuesday, February 24, 2009

How to Apply Mineral Makeup Foundation Step-by-Step

By Marilyn Etzel

How can women wear makeup and gain enhanced looks while still appearing natural? The answer to that question seems to be mineral makeup. Using ground minerals from the earth creates that illusion and keeps the skin looking good. Best of all, mineral makeup can be matched to just about all skin tones.

There are plenty of choices these days when it comes to choosing a mineral cosmetic product to use. Your final decision of which company's cosmetics to use depends on you and your tastes. All mineral makeup is not just minerals. Some contain fillers that can be harmless or cause skin irritations.

Just like traditional makeup, mineral makeup has the same essential products: foundation, eye shadow, blush, and concealer. The differences come when you are talking about how to apply them. Even with mineral makeup it is possible for it to look "cakey" if applied wrong. And, clumped makeup never looks goodon anyone.

The first makeup essential that is applied to your face is the foundation. Its purpose is implied in the name. Foundation prepares your face for the rest of the makeup. It is like preparing a canvas before you paint. The rest of the makeup looks better when foundation is applied.

Before applying any makeup, get your face in the best shape possible. Clean your face as usual to remove any dirt and oil. If your skin tends to be on the dry side, don't forget to moisturize. The moisturizer must soak in and feel dry before adding makeup.

Mineral foundation can be applied to the skin in a dry or wet preparation. First, you will learn how to apply mineral foundation on dry skin.

Applying Dry Mineral Foundation

1. When a new jar is used, the powder can be packed tight. Shaking the jar will loosen the powder. Place a small amount of mineral foundation in a clean lid for application.

2. Kabuki brushes are the traditional applicators for mineral foundation. The bristles of the brush hold the powder well and spread it easily over your face. Much is not required for a daily use. Dip the brush into the powder. Before applying, tap the Kabuki brush against the jar to dislodge any extra.

3. Apply mineral foundation from jaw line to forehead in a circular manner. When it comes to your nose, brush downward on the nose and out across the cheeks. Apply in strokes under the chin and along the neck.

4. Move over the face again with your Kabuki brush until you are satisfied with the coverage.

Applying Wet Mineral Makeup

1. You may prefer to have your mineral makeup foundation applied like a liquid. To do this, still apply a dime size amount of the makeup to the lid.

2. Add a spray or two of water from a bottle to the makeup. Mix the minerals and water with a Kabuki or other professional makeup brush. When the consistency is even, begin to apply.

3. Begin by using circular motions to apply the foundation to your jaw line. Work your way upwards to your forehead. The first time, go slow to be sure that the foundation blends evenly for a flawless look. Apply the foundation to your neck as well.

It is not difficult to get the hang of applying mineral makeup. For a natural looking beauty, use the above instructions to apply your mineral foundation. - 15266

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