Makeup and skincare in general are areas that are overwhelmed by rules we have learned from the past, which live and survive in the back of our minds. In theory, some things are forbidden, but in practice, we see that perhaps the theory is ultimately wrong.
Can I finally combine a smokey eye with a dark lipstick?
Will it, after all, be interesting as an effect to use intense mascara on the lower lashes? Should I put on foundation after I have put on my eyes and not before?
According to the leading professionals in the field, it would be good to start ignoring the outdated rules that have been set and start working on the basis of what works best in each individual case.
After all, rules are made to be broken!
And what are the most classic such rules?
Let’s look at them in order.
Put foundation first of all
Certainly when it comes to a flawless makeup look, the skin ought to look flawless. So to make this happen, the simplest thing you can do is to paint your eyes first, so that you have the space to clean your skin from shadow residue etc. and work on a clean base.
Don’t use bronzer and blush at the same time
And yet.. To make the “sunburned” effect of a bronzing product look natural, a little colour on the apples is necessary. Go for warmer shades that match better, such as a light peach.
Use exactly the same shade of lipstick and lip liner.
In the age where, starting from Korea and reaching up to Western culture, lip contouring is the hottest thing in the world, opinions like this are a thing of the past. Besides, when you use a darker shade for your lip contour, you can create a much more three-dimensional effect. Try filling in the outer corners of the lips with a darker shade and keep a lighter shade in the centre of the lips to give them more volume.
Always put powder on top of foundation
Another rule that is doomed to be lost somewhere in the dustbin of history. Clearly if you need an absolutely matte finish, (which will never look natural) yes, you will powder over foundation. But if you want your skin to look radiant and cool, this is a habit you should avoid. Instead, try mixing a little moisturizer with your foundation for a more natural-looking effect on your skin.
Emphasize only one feature
The rule of thumb is “pick one facial feature and focus on it. The logic is that you should never pair a bright lipstick with a smokey eye. However, depending on the occasion these two together can work great as long as the look remains elegant and not too intense. Try a monochromatic combination to elevate this look.
You should always use Primer before Foundation
Primer is clearly very important, but not absolutely necessary. In most cases, a proper moisturizing and conditioning process can provide the perfect base for a makeup that will layer beautifully and last for hours.
Apply mascara only on the upper lashes
Another rule that only works under certain conditions. Certainly if your eyes are downward, mascara on the lower lashes won’t help. However, in any look there is color on the lower eyelid, a definition of the boundaries with mascara is necessary. However, always make sure your result is clear and your intensity is focused on the outer corner of the eye.
In conclusion, every professional, like every other person who uses makeup products, has set his own tactics and rules, based on his experience and the result. So don’t be afraid to experiment and discover what works best for you!
