Cosmetics have several purposes, they can enhance natural features, be used to cover spots or blemishes, change the appearance, add colour and skin tones, provide fragrance to the skin or even provide protection, moisture or other skin benefits by combining with active ingredients. They may be produced from natural sources, be synthetic in nature or a combination.
Cosmetics have been used throughout history, including the Ancient Egyptians (Kohl obtained from grinding minerals to be used as mascara) and Romans (rose water and beeswax), and fashions have changed dramatically over the years, including the use of cosmetics by men becoming increasingly popular.
Cosmetics have been formulated for all areas of the face, body and hair and their method of application also varies, with some being put on using sponges or brushes or lip sticks and some simply using the fingertips. However, cosmetics generally fall into the following categories.
PRIME: Intended pre-make up to smooth the skin allowing a more even application. Some primers have pigment added to them to improve skin luminosity or disguise redness.
CONCEAL: These are generally heavier, thicker products that are pigmented to the wearer’s natural skin colour and used to conceal marks and blemishes, before foundation is applied.
FOUNDATION: Often applied to the whole face to produce an even skin tone, lighter and less pigmented than concealers and can have different finishes, such as silk, matte or dewy, depending on the wearer’s style.
BLUSH: Most commonly applied to the cheeks to emphasise the cheekbones, they are produced as creams, lotions or powders in various colours.
BRONZE: Coming in various formulations, they usually provide bronzing or tanning to make the skin have a healthier glow, also coming in various finishes with some giving a glittery effect.
HIGHLIGHT: Applied to the high points of the face, such as the cheeks, nose and eyebrows, they allow contouring to emphasise and enhance natural curves and contours of the face, giving a fuller appearance. These also come in a range of formulations, colours and finishes.
EYESHADOW: A popular cosmetic for drawing the attention to and enhancing the eye area and the region between the eyes, including the eyelids. They are often applied with a fine brush and several colours may be blended to provide greater emphasis.
EYELINER: Helps to enhance or extend the size or depth of the eye, often applied using an eyeliner pencil and most commonly black, although other formulations and colours are popular choices for some.
MASCARA: Applied to the lashes to help improve their appearance, giving the illusion of longer, thicker and more enhanced lashes. Often applied with a specific spiralled mascara brush, there are many available to purchase, each one often focusing on a particular desired effect.
There are a diverse range of lip products including lipstick, lip liner, balms and gloss in a multitude of colours and consistencies to provide colour, texture and protection to the lips. Most lip products are waterproof to ensure that they provide coverage for longer periods.
Skincare: Start with a clean, moisturised face. A well-hydrated canvas helps makeup go on smoothly and last longer.
Primer: Apply a makeup primer to create a smooth, even base for your makeup. This can help your makeup stay in place and minimise the appearance of pores and fine lines.
Foundation Match: Choose a foundation that matches your skin tone. Test it on your jawline, not your wrist, for the most accurate match.
Application: Use a makeup sponge, brush, or your fingers to apply foundation. Blend it evenly, especially around the jawline and hairline, to avoid harsh lines.
Sheer Coverage: If you prefer a lighter coverage, mix your foundation with a bit of moisturiser for a sheer, dewy look.
Conceal Dark Circles: Apply concealer under your eyes in a triangular shape to brighten and conceal dark circles effectively.
Spot Concealing: Use concealer to cover blemishes or imperfections. Dab, don’t rub, to avoid spreading bacteria.
Setting Powder: Set your makeup with a translucent setting powder to reduce shine and make it last longer.
Eye Primer: Apply an eye primer to ensure your eyeshadow stays in place and appears more vibrant.
Blending: When applying eyeshadow, blend well to avoid harsh lines. Use lighter shades on your brow bone and inner corners to highlight.
Eyeliner: Experiment with different eyeliner styles (winged, smudged, tightline) to achieve the look you desire.
Mascara: Curl your lashes before applying mascara for a wide-eyed look. Apply mascara to both upper and lower lashes for balance.
Natural Brows: Use an eyebrow pencil or powder to fill in your brows, following their natural shape. Brush them upward for a more youthful appearance.
Blush Placement: Smile and apply blush to the apples of your cheeks for a healthy, youthful flush. Blend well to avoid harsh lines.
Lip Liner: Use lip liner to define your lips and prevent lipstick from feathering. It also helps your lip color last longer.
Lipstick Application: Use a lip brush for precise lipstick application. Blot with a tissue and reapply for longer-lasting color.
Setting Spray: Finish with a makeup setting spray to help your makeup stay put throughout the day.
Blotting Papers: Keep blotting papers on hand to absorb excess oil without disturbing your makeup.
Gentle Removal: At the end of the day, use a makeup remover or micellar water to gently remove makeup before cleansing your face.
Skincare After Makeup: Follow up with your nighttime skincare routine to keep your skin healthy.
Remember that makeup is a form of self-expression, so don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun with it. What works best for you may vary depending on your individual features and preferences, so feel free to adapt these tips to suit your style and needs.
Jane Iredale products are clean, natural, vegan friendly and cruelty free make-up to nourish and protect your skin.
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