Makeup Application is Key to a Natural Look

The purpose of makeup is to provide a flawless natural appearance to the skin. Mineral makeup fulfills that purpose by solving the problem of getting a natural look. The mix of fine minerals is safe for most skin tones and types.

Mineral cosmetics contain minerals that are found naturally in the earth. You will encounter some mineral cosmetics that do include fillers. What types of ingredients do you want to see in your mineral makeup? Whether you choose to use or not to use mineral cosmetics with "extras" is up to you.

For a start, any makeup can have the appearance of caking if not applied correctly, even mineral makeup. Clumps and creases aren't compatible with an evening on the town. There is a technique to applying all mineral makeup products: foundation, eye shadow, blush, and concealer.

Foundation does just what the name implies: It lays the foundation for applying all the other products. Using foundation first brings out the true colors in the makeup. Without foundation, the colors don't stand out and any skin problems are still noticeable. Think of a painter's canvas. Foundation prepares the face as priming prepares the canvas.

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.

There are two ways to prepare mineral makeup foundation-dry or wet. We'll begin with step-by-step instructions for using a dry foundation.

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. Now it's time to get down to business. Apply foundation to the jaw line first. Using a circular motion, work your way upwards towards your forehead. For the nose, sweep down the ridge and out across your cheekbones.

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. Using a water spray bottle, apply one or two sprays to your powder foundation. Mix with a Kabuki brush until all powder has been hydrated by the water. It's time to apply to your face.

3. Start at the jaw line and work your way up. Sweep across the eyelids, down the nose, and out towards the cheeks. Don't forget to apply foundation to your neck as well. It may take a few minutes more to evenly blend the wet mineral foundation but the result will still be as even and flawless as with the dry.

Mineral foundation is easy to apply with the proper tools and techniques. Just follow the steps above and enhance that natural glow.