Alright, so you’re totally new to makeup – like, never even touched lip gloss or lipstick new. No worries, we’ve all been there.
Honestly? The best part is that first time you look in the mirror and think, ‘Damn, I look good.’ It’s all about that little confidence boost, knowing you can enhance what you’ve got and feel just a bit extra. It’s like finally getting why everyone else does it—you see the glow-up, and it feels pretty amazing.
It’s okay to be a little terrified of messing up—wearing makeup for the first time is nerve-wracking. What’s scary? The thought that you might mess it up, like accidentally putting on too much or picking a color that’s totally wrong. There’s this fear that everyone will notice if something’s off, or that you won’t look how you hoped.
Some of the subtle mistakes you might make when you’re still new to makeup are things like uneven eyeliner—one wing higher than the other, which only shows up when you really look closely. Or maybe you have a tiny smudge of lipstick at the corners of your mouth that you only notice when you’re up close in the mirror.
Sometimes, if you don’t blend your eyeshadow perfectly, you might end up with a bit of a harsh line that’s only visible if someone’s really looking. Using the wrong brush can also be a small issue—like using a concealer brush for eyeshadow. It’s a tiny detail, but it can affect how smooth the application looks.
And then there’s the foundation or concealer that doesn’t quite match your skin’s undertones. It’s not obvious from a distance but can be noticeable up close. Or if your makeup settles into fine lines, especially if you didn’t set it properly, it can be a subtle but annoying detail.
When you’re doing your first makeup look, a few key things to keep in mind are:
- Less is more when you’re starting out. You want to get comfortable with the basics before diving into more complex stuff.
- It’s tempting to test makeup in artificial light, but natural daylight gives you the most accurate idea of how the product will look on your skin. Head to a window or use daylight bulbs if you’re at home. It helps you avoid surprises when you step outside.
- If you’re going to apply them using your hands, before you slap on that BB cream or foundation, try warming it up in your hands first. It makes it blend way better and feels way more natural on your skin. Just rub it between your palms for a bit before you put it on!
- For a natural look, less is actually more. You don’t need a thick layer of BB cream or foundation. Start with a thin layer and build only where necessary. It’s about enhancing, not covering up.
- A light dusting is all you need. Over-applying can make your skin look dry or cakey. If you feel the need to powder more, use a very light hand and a fluffy brush.
- Clean your brushes and sponges regularly. Dirty tools can make your makeup look uneven or cause breakouts. A quick rinse with mild soap or a dedicated brush cleaner can make a big difference.
- Products you see in ads and on tutorials aren’t always true to life or accurate for your specific skin tone, so if possible, test the product on your jawline or wrist to see how it blends with your skin tone. It’s the best way to ensure it matches and doesn’t look off when applied.
- Use a brush or sponge instead of applying directly from the tube or bottle. This helps with even application and reduces the risk of bacterial transfer, which can cause skin issues.
- If you have oily or dry skin, choose products that cater to your skin type. For example, if you’re oily, a mattifying BB cream might be better. If you’re dry, look for hydrating formulas.
For your very first makeup item, I’d suggest starting with BB cream. It’s easy to apply and forgiving—great for beginners. It gives you a bit of coverage while still letting your natural skin show through, so you’re not overwhelmed by the process.
Why BB Cream First?: BB cream is a great starting point because it’s lighter than foundation and doesn’t require perfect technique. It’s basically a multitasker—moisturizes, evens out your skin tone, and gives a bit of coverage, making it an easy way to ease into makeup.
Once you’re comfortable with BB cream, you can gradually move on to other items like concealer for spot coverage, blush for a touch of colour, and mascara to enhance your lashes. Each step builds on what you’ve learned, so you’re not diving into everything all at once.
BB Cream or Tinted Moisturizer
🌸Perfect for light coverage and evening out your skin tone.🌸
…and then, once you’ve got the hang of BB cream and feel confident with the basics, you can start experimenting with a bit more.
Introduce a concealer for those little blemishes or under-eye circles—just apply it where you need a bit more coverage.
How They Both Go On
You usually start with BB cream first. It evens out your overall skin tone and provides a base. Once the BB cream is on and blended, you use concealer for any extra coverage where you need it—like under your eyes or on blemishes.
Do I Skip BB Cream?
If you’re already using BB cream, you don’t skip it. You apply the BB cream first to create a smooth, even base. Then, add concealer where you need additional coverage. If you’re only using concealer for spot treatment and don’t need the full coverage of BB cream, you can wear concealer alone, but BB cream helps with overall coverage and a unified look.
Concealer First or After BB Cream?
Always apply BB cream first. Concealer is for spot coverage, so it works best over the BB cream to blend seamlessly.
Can I Wear Concealer Without BB Cream?
Absolutely. If you’re just covering specific areas like blemishes or dark circles, you can wear concealer alone. You don’t skip the BB cream unless you’re going for a more minimal look and only want to use concealer. In that case, you can wear concealer on its own. But generally, BB cream first and then concealer on top works best for a smooth, polished look.
Concealer
🌸To tackle any spots or under-eye circles.🌸
…and then mascara?
Yes, exactly—after you’ve got your BB cream and concealer sorted, you’d move on to mascara.
So, once your base is set and you’re happy with the coverage, apply mascara to your lashes. It’s a great way to open up your eyes and add some definition. Just swipe it on your upper lashes (and lower ones if you like) to make them stand out.
How to apply mascara
Get Your Wand Ready:
Remove the mascara wand from the tube and gently wipe off any excess product on the edge of the tube to avoid clumps.
- Why: Removing excess mascara prevents clumps and makes application smoother.
- How: After pulling the wand out of the tube, gently wipe it on the edge of the tube with a tissue or the tube’s rim. This helps get rid of any extra product that could cause clumping.
Position the Wand:
Hold the wand horizontally, and start at the base of your upper lashes. You can tilt the wand a little if that feels more comfortable.
- Why: Proper positioning ensures you get the mascara evenly on your lashes.
- How: Hold the wand horizontally to your eye. If it’s easier, you can tilt it slightly upwards. This position helps you reach all your lashes from base to tip.
Apply in a Zigzag Motion:
Sweep the wand up and out from the base of your lashes to the tips. Use a zigzag or wiggle motion as you go. This helps coat each lash and separates them, reducing clumps.
- Why: This motion separates the lashes and prevents them from sticking together.
- How: Start at the base of your lashes, close to the roots. Move the wand up while slightly wiggling it side-to-side. This action coats each lash individually and avoids clumps.
Layer Lightly:
Apply one coat first, and then let it dry for a minute. If you want more volume, apply a second coat. Just don’t apply too much at once to avoid clumping.
- Why: Applying too much mascara at once can cause clumps and weigh down your lashes.
- How: After your first coat, let the mascara dry for about a minute. If you want more volume, apply a second coat. Make sure each layer is dry before adding more to avoid clumping.
Check for Clumps:
After applying, use the tip of the wand or a clean spoolie brush to comb through your lashes if you notice any clumps. This helps them look more defined and natural.
- Why: Removing clumps helps your lashes look longer and more defined.
- How: Use the tip of the wand or a clean spoolie brush (a brush similar to a mascara wand but without product) to gently comb through your lashes. This helps separate any lashes that may have stuck together.
Lower Lashes:
If you want to apply mascara to your lower lashes, use the tip of the wand and gently brush it on. Be careful to avoid smudging.
- Why: Applying mascara to lower lashes adds balance to your look and makes your eyes appear bigger.
- How: Tilt your head back slightly and use the tip of the wand to apply mascara to your lower lashes. Be gentle to avoid smudging, and don’t apply too much product.
Final Touch:
Look up and carefully use a cotton swab to clean up any smudges or mistakes around your eyes.
- Why: Cleaning up smudges ensures a neat finish and keeps your look clean.
- How: Use a cotton swab or a small makeup brush to gently remove any mascara that may have smudged onto your skin. Lightly dab and clean around your eyes to fix any mistakes.
BONUS: Clever Mascara Tricks
Heat Your Curler: Gently warm your eyelash curler with a hairdryer for a few seconds before using it. Just like heating a curling iron for your hair, this can help your lashes hold a curl better. Be sure it’s not too hot—test it on the back of your hand first!
Use a Spoon: Place a spoon against your eyelid to catch any mascara smudges and prevent them from getting on your skin. It’s a quick fix to avoid those annoying black spots on your eyeshadow.
Dry Your Mascara Wand: After applying mascara, use a clean, dry spoolie to comb through your lashes. This can help separate them and remove any excess product, giving you a more natural look.
Layer with Different Mascaras: Try layering different types of mascara (e.g., volumizing first, then lengthening). It’s a bit like mixing different formulas to achieve your perfect lash look without using one mascara that does it all.
Use a Lash Primer: Apply a clear lash primer before your mascara. It helps to lengthen and volumize your lashes and creates a better base for mascara to adhere to.
Twist, Don’t Pump: Instead of pumping the wand in the tube to get more product, twist it. Pumping introduces air into the tube, which can dry out your mascara faster and lead to clumps.
Mix with Eye Drops: If your mascara is getting thick or dry, mix a few drops of saline solution or eye drops into the tube. It’ll help loosen up the formula and make it easier to apply.
Use the Tip for Precision: When applying mascara, use the very tip of the wand to get into the corners of your eyes and coat the tiny lashes that are often missed.
Apply to the Roots: Focus on applying mascara right at the roots of your lashes, wiggling the wand back and forth. This technique adds volume and makes your lashes look fuller.
Avoid Waterproof Daily: Save waterproof mascara for special occasions or when you know you’ll be in the water. It’s tough to remove daily and can lead to lash breakage if used constantly.
Mascara
🌸A must for making your eyes pop.🌸
Wondering what to do with your lips? Relax. You’ve got a couple of options…
Lip Balm: If you’re just after some hydration and want to keep things natural, go with lip balm. It’s perfect for keeping your lips smooth and feeling great. Just swipe a bit on directly from the tube or use your finger. If you like, you can try a tinted balm for a touch of colour.
Lip Gloss: If you want a bit more shine or a pop of colour, lip gloss is the way to go. It gives your lips a nice glossy finish and can make them look fuller. Just apply it with the applicator, starting from the middle of your lips and spreading out. You can layer it if you want more shine, but don’t overdo it—one layer usually does the trick.
You go for lipstick when you want a more polished look.
Lipstick comes in various formulas—matte, satin, glossy—and offers more colour and coverage compared to lip gloss or lip balm. Think of it as the main player when you want a bold, defined lip. For starters, go with nude shades, soft pinks, peachy corals, or sheer reds. These are flattering and easy to wear, giving you that perfect pop of colour without being too intense.
In the meantime, here are great, budget-friendly options for lip glosses and lip balms:
Affordable Lip Glosses:
NYX Butter Gloss: This one’s a fan favorite for its smooth, non-sticky formula and wide range of shades. It’s perfect for a glossy finish with a touch of colour.
e.l.f. Glossy Gloss: A super affordable option that delivers a nice, shiny finish. It’s also enriched with Vitamin E to keep your lips feeling soft.
Maybelline New York Lip Lifter Gloss: This gloss offers a plumping effect and comes in a variety of shades, giving you both shine and a bit of volume.
Affordable Lip Balms:
Carmex Classic Lip Balm: A staple in many makeup bags, Carmex provides excellent hydration and has a bit of a tingle that many find soothing.
Burt’s Bees Beeswax Lip Balm: A classic choice that’s natural and highly moisturizing. It’s great for keeping your lips hydrated with a subtle, refreshing minty feel.
Nivea Smoothness Lip Care: Known for its long-lasting moisture and smooth application, this balm is a solid pick for daily use.
Lip Balm or Gloss
🌸Keep it simple and hydrating.🌸
and then…
Blush
🌸Adds a cute flush to your cheeks.🌸
and finally…
Eyebrow Gel
🌸For keeping those brows in place.🌸
Quick tip…
Before committing to full sizes, try to get samples or mini versions. This way, you can see how your skin reacts without spending a ton. Sephora, Ulta, and even drugstores sometimes have sample sizes.
Best Places On Your Face To Start Wearing Makeup
Eyes
Most beginners start with their eyes.
Mascara: This is usually the first step. A swipe or two of mascara can make your eyes pop and feel more awake.
Eyeliner: Once you’re comfortable with mascara, add some eyeliner. A simple pencil liner is great to start with; it’s forgiving and easy to smudge for a softer look.
Eyeshadow: Next up is eyeshadow. Stick to neutral shades at first. A light color on the lid and a slightly darker shade in the crease adds dimension without being overwhelming.
Lips
The next area beginners usually tackle is the lips. It’s simple but effective.
Lip Balm: Start with a tinted lip balm. It’s moisturizing and adds a hint of color without being too bold.
Lip Gloss: Once you’re comfy with balm, step it up to lip gloss. It adds more shine and a bit more color.
Lipstick: When you’re ready, try out a sheer lipstick. It’s a bit more pigmented than gloss but still easy to manage.
Where To Apply Makeup Next After Mastering Basics
Face
After mastering the eyes and lips, move on to the face. This involves evening out your skin tone and adding some color back in.
BB Cream or Tinted Moisturizer: This gives you light coverage and a natural look. It’s perfect for beginners because it’s hard to mess up.
Concealer: Use it to cover any blemishes or dark circles. Start with a small amount and blend well.
Blush: Add a bit of blush to the apples of your cheeks for a healthy glow. Cream blushes are great for beginners because they blend easily and look natural.
Eyebrows
Once you’ve got the basics down, it’s time to shape and define your brows.
Eyebrow Gel: Start with a clear gel to keep your brows in place. It’s simple and adds just a bit of polish.
Brow Pencil or Powder: When you’re comfortable, use a brow pencil or powder to fill in any sparse areas. Go light and build up as needed.
Taking It Further
Highlighter and Contour
These steps are for when you’re really feeling confident and want to play around more.
Highlighter: Apply a bit of highlighter to the high points of your face – tops of your cheekbones, bridge of your nose, and cupid’s bow. It adds a lovely glow.
Contour: Contouring adds definition to your face. Use a contour stick or powder under your cheekbones, along your jawline, and at the sides of your nose. Blend well to avoid harsh lines.
Advanced Eye Makeup
As you get more comfortable, you can experiment with more advanced eye makeup techniques.
Eyeshadow Palettes: Invest in a good eyeshadow palette with a mix of mattes and shimmers. Play around with different looks.
Winged Liner: Try out a winged liner for a more dramatic effect. It takes practice, but it’s a game-changer once you get it down.
Full-Face Makeup
Once you’ve nailed advanced eye looks, it’s time to perfect your full-face makeup routine. This is where everything comes together, giving you a polished and cohesive look.
Primer
What is it? Primer is like a base for your makeup that helps it last longer and look smoother.
How to use it? Apply a small amount all over your face before your foundation. Focus on areas where your makeup tends to wear off or where you have larger pores.
Foundation
What’s the difference between foundation and BB cream/tinted moisturizer? Foundation offers more coverage and comes in different finishes like matte, dewy, and satin.
How to pick the right shade? Test shades on your jawline to find the perfect match. The right shade should blend seamlessly into your skin.
How to apply it? Use a damp beauty sponge or a foundation brush for an even application. Start with a small amount and build up if needed.
Setting Powder
Why use it? Setting powder helps set your foundation and concealer, reducing shine and keeping your makeup in place.
How to apply it? Lightly dust a translucent setting powder over your face using a fluffy brush, focusing on areas that get oily, like your T-zone.
Bronzer
What’s the difference between bronzer and contour? Bronzer adds warmth to your face, giving you a sun-kissed look, while contouring adds shadow and definition.
How to use it? Apply bronzer to areas where the sun naturally hits your face: your forehead, cheekbones, and jawline. Use a big, fluffy brush and blend well.
Highlighter
How to make it pop? Apply highlighter to the high points of your face after your bronzer and blush. For an extra glow, use a damp beauty sponge to apply it.
Where to apply it? Focus on your cheekbones, the bridge of your nose, your cupid’s bow, and your brow bone.
Setting Spray
What is it? Setting spray is like hairspray for your face – it locks everything in place.
How to use it? Hold the bottle about 8-10 inches away from your face and spritz a few times. Let it dry naturally.
Getting Creative
Experiment with Colors
How to choose colors? Start with shades that complement your eye color and skin tone. Don’t be afraid to experiment with bold colors once you’re comfortable.
Where to apply bold colors? Try colorful eyeliners, eyeshadows, or lipsticks. A pop of color on your lower lash line or a bold lip can be super fun.
False Eyelashes
Why use them? False lashes add drama and can elevate any look.
How to apply them? Measure the lashes against your natural lash line and trim if needed. Apply a thin layer of lash glue, wait a few seconds for it to get tacky, then press the lashes onto your lash line using tweezers or your fingers.
The Lazy Coin Beauty Perfecting Techniques
Make sure to blend your makeup nicely so you don’t have any harsh lines. Just keep practicing with your eyeshadows, bronzer, and contour to get that smooth look!
Grab some small brushes for the fiddly stuff, like adding eyeshadow to your lower lash line or brightening up your inner corners.
Skincare Before and After Makeup
Why it matters?
Taking care of your skin makes sure your makeup goes on nicely and looks fresh all day.
Pre-makeup routine?
Give your skin a good cleanse, tone, and moisturize before you start applying makeup. You might want to try a primer that suits your skin type.
Post-makeup routine?
Always take off your makeup before hitting the bed. Grab a gentle makeup remover, wash your face, and then stick to your regular skincare routine.
Are you on a budget?
The Lazy Coin Pocket-Friendly Makeup Guide
Starting Out: Must-Have Products
BB Cream or Tinted Moisturizer
Why it’s a good choice: It’s a 2-in-1 product that provides light coverage and moisturizes your skin.
Budget tip: Drugstore brands like Maybelline or Garnier offer affordable options.
Application: Use your fingers or a damp beauty sponge to apply a small amount all over your face. Blend well, focusing on areas that need more coverage.
Concealer
Why it’s a good choice: It helps cover blemishes and dark circles without needing a full-coverage foundation.
Budget tip: Look for multi-use concealers from brands like e.l.f. or NYX.
Application: Dab a small amount under your eyes and on any blemishes. Blend with your fingers or a small brush.
Mascara
Why it’s a good choice: Instantly opens up your eyes and makes you look more awake.
Budget tip: Essence or Maybelline mascaras are affordable and effective.
Application: Wiggle the wand at the base of your lashes and sweep upwards. Apply one to two coats.
Lip Balm or Tinted Lip Balm
Why it’s a good choice: Hydrates your lips and adds a hint of color.
Budget tip: Burt’s Bees or Baby Lips by Maybelline are great options.
Application: Swipe it on as needed throughout the day.
Blush
Why it’s a good choice: Adds a healthy flush to your cheeks.
Budget tip: Look for drugstore brands like Wet n Wild or Milani.
Application: Smile and apply blush to the apples of your cheeks, blending towards your temples.
Eyebrow Gel
Why it’s a good choice: Keeps your brows in place and can add a bit of color.
Budget tip: e.l.f. and Maybelline offer affordable brow gels.
Application: Brush the gel through your brows in the direction of hair growth.
Application Techniques on a Budget
1. Use Multipurpose Products:
BB Cream/Tinted Moisturizer: Can double as a light foundation and moisturizer.
Concealer: Can be used for spot concealing and as an eyeshadow primer.
Lip Balm: Can be used on your lips and as a cheek tint in a pinch.
2. Tools:
Fingers: Use your fingers for applying most products to save on brushes.
Beauty Sponge: A damp beauty sponge can help blend foundation, concealer, and cream blush seamlessly. Look for affordable ones like the Real Techniques sponge.
Brush Set: Invest in a basic, affordable brush set. e.l.f. offers good quality at a low price.
Tips to Make Products Last Longer
1. Use Small Amounts. Start with a small amount of product and build up if needed. This helps prevent waste and makes your products last longer.
2. Store your makeup products properly. Keep your makeup in a cool, dry place to extend its shelf life. Avoid direct sunlight and humidity.
3. Buy products that can be used in multiple ways, like a blush that can double as an eyeshadow.
4. Layer products thinly. For instance, apply a light layer of BB cream and build up coverage with concealer only where needed.
5. Make a DIY setting spray with water and a few drops of glycerin to set your makeup and keep it looking fresh longer.
Perfect Finished Look on a Budget
- Primer
If you can, invest in a budget-friendly primer like e.l.f. Poreless Putty Primer to make your makeup last longer.
- BB Cream/Tinted Moisturizer
Apply a small amount and blend well with your fingers or a damp sponge.
- Concealer
Use sparingly under the eyes and on blemishes. Blend well to avoid cakiness.
- Blush
Apply a small amount to the apples of your cheeks and blend upwards.
- Mascara
Apply one to two coats, focusing on the base of your lashes for a fuller look.
- Lip Balm/Tinted Lip Balm
Apply to your lips for hydration and a hint of color.
- Eyebrow Gel
Brush through your brows to keep them in place.
Extra Tips for a Polished Look
Blending: Always blend your makeup well to avoid harsh lines.
Less is More: Start with less product and build up if needed. It’s easier to add more than to take it off.
Practice: The more you practice, the better you’ll get at applying your makeup quickly and effectively.
TOP 3 MUST HAVE MAKEUP PRODUCTS
If you’re super strapped for cash, these are the absolute three most crucial must-have beauty products that you’ll want to start out with:
- Colour lipgloss
- Brow gel
- Mascara
