How to Apply Makeup in 10 Easy Steps

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So often I get asked to teach people how to apply makeup. I try to explain how simple your basic makeup application can be. It can be easy and quick enough to work into your morning routine. I have specifically left product names out of this blog post because I want this to be a straight up "How to". I've left the photos in basic black and white for the same reason. Knowing how to apply makeup is something every girls should learn to do. Whether you wear it everyday or for special occasions learning the basics is key I've broken this down into 10 steps to make it easy for teens, tweens and women (or men) of all ages . Enjoy.

A good primer can help to fill in any pores or scars you have as well as help to keep your makeup on all day.

Foundations can come is full, medium or sheer coverage. Depending on your skin type, you will need to choose the coverage that works for you. Make sure the the shade is closest to your complexion. Picking the wrong color can really ruin your entire look.

Contouring & highlighting can be optional but is beneficial if you'd like to add dimension and depth to your face.

Applying makeup without some sort of color on your cheeks is pointless. Whether its bronze, coral or pink, if you don't want to look washed out, blush is a must.

Trust me, you will thank me later. Shaping and filling your brows can really frame your face. It evens out any scars or bald spots and gives your face a finished look.

Shadow doesn't have to be anything fancy or intricate. It can give your eyes an awakened look. Using a little or alot is up to you.

Define your lids... your top ones at least.

Mascara is key in having a finished look. Don't believe me? Try applying mascara to just one. Notice how the eye with mascara looks more alive. Without mascara, you could still look like you just rolled out of bed no matter how much makeup you put on.

In my opinion, lip liner is also an optional step, HOWEVER, liner can act like a primer to keep your lipstick on longer. It can be blended with a gloss for sheer color and it can act as a barrier for your lipstick so that it stays on your lips and doesn't bleed into the cracks.

Lipstick or gloss pulls the whole look together.

Below is a diagram on product placement

Thanks for stopping by The Messy Vanity. I hope you found this guide helpful.