Makeup is no joke. And if you’re looking at someone else’s and wondering why yours looks nothing like theirs, then we’re here to help. Here are some basic makeup tips and tricks that any newbie should know. Don’t be intimidated: you got this.
![Prepare your face Closeup of woman cleansing her face](https://www.slice.ca/wp-content/themes/slice/assets/default_images_placeholder.png)
Getty Images
1 / 10
Prepare your face
First and foremost, you should always start with a clean face and figure out a skincare routine that works for you. This might be a simple makeup tip, but a regular cleanse/tone/moisturize regime will keep the skin hydrated and get rid of excess oils so makeup can sit properly and evenly. After you've slathered on moisturizer, apply primer all over, which will ensure a flawless base that will keep your makeup in place all day.
If you want a glowing complexion, these nighttime skincare hacks are for you.
If you want a glowing complexion, these nighttime skincare hacks are for you.
![Quality, not quantity Young woman applying brush while holding a piece of toast](https://www.slice.ca/wp-content/themes/slice/assets/default_images_placeholder.png)
Getty Images
2 / 10
Quality, not quantity
It's all about the tools and, ideally, it's better to have fewer high-quality brushes in your collection rather than a bunch of cheap crappy ones. Aside from brushes — which should always be cleaned before moving onto a new product or area on your face — and sponges, you should also have Q-Tips handy for instantly erasing any mistakes and spoolies for quick eye fixes (more on that eye makeup tip to come).
Check out this DIY makeup brush cleaner, along with these natural beauty products you can make at home.
Check out this DIY makeup brush cleaner, along with these natural beauty products you can make at home.
![Build the foundation Woman applying foundation to forehead](https://www.slice.ca/wp-content/themes/slice/assets/default_images_placeholder.png)
Getty Images
3 / 10
Build the foundation
Buying foundation can be tough — and annoying. You swatch it on yourself in the store, but by the time you get home or in a different light, it can look off. If you've been Googling "makeup tips foundation," we've got you covered. Most products need about 15 minutes to settle into your skin and the colour may change slightly, so kill some time (if you're in a mall or drugstore, that's easy) before making your final purchase. Also, make sure you swatch it between your cheek and jawline. You want it to match the colour of your face, but be a close enough colour to your neck when you blend it down.
![Concealer weapons Woman applying under-eye concealer](https://www.slice.ca/wp-content/themes/slice/assets/default_images_placeholder.png)
Getty Images
4 / 10
Concealer weapons
Want makeup tips and tricks for a natural look? To avoid that caked-on look, an opaque concealer will be your saviour. It helps camouflage imperfections, which allows you to use less foundation. If you feel like your concealer is too heavy, mix a little moisturizer (or sunscreen) to lighten it up. Make sure you blend out your under-eye concealer in a wider triangle shape, rather than only the small space directly under the eye. The result? You'll look more awake.
You might also like these beauty products that do double (and triple) duty.
You might also like these beauty products that do double (and triple) duty.
![Optimum prime Woman applying primer to eyes](https://www.slice.ca/wp-content/themes/slice/assets/default_images_placeholder.png)
Getty Images
5 / 10
Optimum prime
Just like your face, your eyes should be primed before applying shadow or liner. It's to prevent all that hard work from smudging or fading and make your look appear so much more pigmented. Oh, you want more eye makeup tips? Use a light, neutral base if you want the shadow to pop more.
![Liner up Woman looking in a mirror and putting eyeliner on](https://www.slice.ca/wp-content/themes/slice/assets/default_images_placeholder.png)
Getty Images
6 / 10
Liner up
Of the three basic types of eyeliner, pencil is the most common and easiest to use and perfect for an everyday look. Keep it sharpened (but not too sharp) so you can get your line as close to your lash line as possible. Hold your eye taut for a precise line and, if possible, prop your elbow on the counter for a steadier application. Also, you don't have to go with a black liner, even though that's seemingly the standard; brown and grey are great for beginners as they're more forgiving.
Here are the biggest mistakes you're probably making when it comes to removing your makeup.
Here are the biggest mistakes you're probably making when it comes to removing your makeup.
![Brows, baby Woman sitting on train fixing her eyebrow](https://www.slice.ca/wp-content/themes/slice/assets/default_images_placeholder.png)
Getty Images
7 / 10
Brows, baby
Beautifully shaped brows are a game changer. Go to a pro for that job (that's a no-brainer) and maintain those perfectly sculpted arches with a brow powder or pomade, if need be.
![Mascara magic Woman applying mascara](https://www.slice.ca/wp-content/themes/slice/assets/default_images_placeholder.png)
Getty Images
8 / 10
Mascara magic
To avoid messing up your eyeliner and/or eyeshadow, place a spoon or card under your eyes when applying mascara. But it some does get on what's already made up, remember that earlier makeup tip? Use a spoolie to brush off any mascara flakes.
![Lip service Woman putting on red lipstick](https://www.slice.ca/wp-content/themes/slice/assets/default_images_placeholder.png)
Getty Images
9 / 10
Lip service
You should have two lip colours in your kit: a nude and a red. Yes, red might be shocking to a newbie, but both hues are versatile and flattering for everyone. And because we're givers, here are two more makeup tips for beginners: if you want your pout to appear fuller, apply white eyeliner to the centre of your lips. And to avoid lipstick on your teeth you can work in that simple makeup tip your grandmother used and blot.
The best moisturizing lipsticks your chapped lips need.
The best moisturizing lipsticks your chapped lips need.
![Photo finish Woman spritzing face with finishing spray](https://www.slice.ca/wp-content/themes/slice/assets/default_images_placeholder.png)
Getty Images
10 / 10
Photo finish
Once you've got everything on, use a finishing spray to give your face an even, natural look.
You might also like these DIY face mists that offer big benefits.
You might also like these DIY face mists that offer big benefits.
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT