Finding the perfect makeup for every occasion can mean years of trial and error (and expense), but we’ve got your beauty fast track. We stopped by Sephora at the Grand Canal Shoppes in Las Vegas to ask events coordinator Zakkarius Smith for tips on choosing the perfect primer, concealer, foundation, powder, and spray. So whether you’re gym-bound, having lunch with friends, busy at work, or out for some evening fun, here’s how to pick, prime, and perfect your makeup regimen.SEE ALSO: Supplements for Healthy Hair, Skin and Nails
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Primer
Purpose: Smooth skin, set makeup. Traditional primer smooths out skin’s surface and serves as a barrier to lock on to foundation. It’s ideal for smoothing fine lines and minimizing enlarged pores. “A great primer is the Hourglass Mineral Veil Primer,” says Smith.Mattifying primer does everything traditional primers do while also absorbing excess oil. “One of our clients’ favorites is the Benefit POREfessional: Matte Rescue Invisible Finish Mattifying Gel,” says Smith.Color correcting primer is used to hide unwanted colors on the skin. Smith says, “I like to use the Lancôme Miracle CC Cushion Color Correcting Primer.”
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Concealer
Purpose: When used correctly and in combination with other color correcting products, concealers can cover up dark circles, redness, hyperpigmentation/dark spots, and sallowness without having to wear coverage all over, says Smith. This step is designed to camouflage particular skin concerns in small areas rather than applying heavy complexion products over the entire face. Try: Sephora Collection Bright Future Gel Serum ConcealerSEE ALSO:11 Tools to Battle Signs of Aging
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Foundation
Purpose: A good foundation provides all-over coverage, evens skin tone, and adds depth (if desired). There are three aspects to choosing the right foundation: Coverage, Finish, and Formulation.
Purpose: Powder extends makeup wear and holds it in place.Types: Setting or Finishing Powders Setting powder (and/or setting spray) is more translucent than finishing powder and acts like a clear screen protector for your makeup and skin. Try:Marc Jacobs Beauty Perfection Powder, Featherweight FinishFinishing powder is often more opaque than setting powders and tends to add a hue to the face, like wearing tinted sunglasses. Try: Bésame Cosmetics Brightening Setting Face PowderApply: Dip powder brush into powder, tap handle to remove excess. Press and roll bristles across face rather than sweeping, which can add unwanted texture to skin or accidentally buff off foundation/concealer.SEE ALSO:The Best Foods For Healthy Hair and Skin
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Setting Spray
Purpose: Like setting powder, setting sprays help lock makeup into place while extending the wear; also helps with hydration.Apply: Lightly spray a setting mist into the air above the face, allowing it to fall onto the skin and gently press with your palms. Many toners and hydrating sprays can be used as makeup setting mists. Avoid spraying setting mist directly at the face as it can cause streaks if too concentrated, and avoid sprays with a lot of alcohol in their ingredient list. Try:Supergoop! Defense Refresh Setting Mist SPF 50
Finding the perfect makeup for every occasion can mean years of trial and error (and expense), but we’ve got your beauty fast track. We stopped by Sephora at the Grand Canal Shoppes in Las Vegas to ask events coordinator Zakkarius Smith for tips on choosing the perfect primer, concealer, foundation, powder, and spray. So whether you’re gym-bound, having lunch with friends, busy at work, or out for some evening fun, here’s how to pick, prime, and perfect your makeup regimen.
Traditional primer smooths out skin’s surface and serves as a barrier to lock on to foundation. It’s ideal for smoothing fine lines and minimizing enlarged pores. “A great primer is the Hourglass Mineral Veil Primer,” says Smith.
Purpose: When used correctly and in combination with other color correcting products, concealers can cover up dark circles, redness, hyperpigmentation/dark spots, and sallowness without having to wear coverage all over, says Smith. This step is designed to camouflage particular skin concerns in small areas rather than applying heavy complexion products over the entire face.
Purpose: A good foundation provides all-over coverage, evens skin tone, and adds depth (if desired). There are three aspects to choosing the right foundation: Coverage, Finish, and Formulation.
TIP: “Less is more when applying foundation,” Smith says. “To get the most comfort and long wear, select a formula that gives you the desired look with the least amount of product.”
Apply: Dip powder brush into powder, tap handle to remove excess. Press and roll bristles across face rather than sweeping, which can add unwanted texture to skin or accidentally buff off foundation/concealer.
Purpose: Like setting powder, setting sprays help lock makeup into place while extending the wear; also helps with hydration.
Apply: Lightly spray a setting mist into the air above the face, allowing it to fall onto the skin and gently press with your palms. Many toners and hydrating sprays can be used as makeup setting mists. Avoid spraying setting mist directly at the face as it can cause streaks if too concentrated, and avoid sprays with a lot of alcohol in their ingredient list. Try:Supergoop! Defense Refresh Setting Mist SPF 50
