BEGIN with clean, fresh skin. Follow the skin care regime for your skin type (for information on determining your skin type, go to my article on skin care).

APPLY the moisturizer appropriate for your skin type as a base for your makeup. Don’t forget to moisturize around the eyes.

USING the flat side of the cosmetics sponge, apply the recommended foundation in a downward motion. PROFESSIONAL TIP: The downward motion allows for even coverage since facial hair grows downward.

DUST face with loose translucent powder using a powder puff. Remove excess with a powder brush stroking upward. PROFESSIONAL TIP: Loose powder sets makeup and helps it wear longer, absorbs excess oil and creates a matte finish.

APPLY blush upward from the cheekbones to the temples. The intensity of the color should lessen gradually so that it does not end abruptly at the hairline.

BLEND eye shadows well so that color changes from eye to brow are gradual. For lighter, more natural application, apply using a fluff brush. For heavier application or evening eyes, use a sponge-tip applicator.

Be sure to keep eyebrows arched. Stray hairs will cause uneven application of highlighter and hairs will be obvious.

OUTLINE upper and lower lids with an eye liner color that compliments your eye color.

BRUSH on 2-3 coats of the proper mascara for lavish lashes. Apply both upper and lower lashes. Allow mascara to dry between applications. Use a lash comb or clean mascara brush to separate lashes. If you use an eyelash curler, use it before applying mascara.

OUTLINE lips with a lip pencil in a neutral color or one that compliments your lipstick. Blend the line lightly with a q-tip or your fingertip. PROFESSIONAL TIP: For longer-lasting lipstick, apply Lip Conditioner as a base

APPLY lipstick using a lip brush.  PROFESSIONAL TIP: A lip brush is more accurate and allows you to vary the depth of color.