How to Choose the Right Makeup for Your Skin

You work hard to look your best. You spend hours choosing the perfect outfit, fixing your hair, and applying makeup. As we've all seen, sometimes the makeup ruins the look. Before applying makeup, you should make sure you choose the right makeup to avoid looking like a clown or tanning disaster victim.

The Basics

Foundation should match your skin tone. When shopping use the inside of your wrist or back of your hand to find the perfect shade. Stores have shade cards you use to compare. Using your hand or wrist will let you find a shade the same color as your face. If you choose shades lighter or darker, you will have a definitive line between your neck and face.

Foundation will help create a smooth, even color for your face, even if you have dark or red patches. However, sometimes you have acne and scars that may need a little more coverage. Concealer is available in skin tone colors and white, green, blue, yellow, and even purple. Green, blue, and yellow concealers work well at hiding red or inflamed areas. White hides dark circles and bruises, while purple creates a brighter complexion. However, skin tone colors are the most popular and work quite well at covering most imperfections.

Eye shadow can be used to help accentuate the eyes. Most people use a color close to their own eye color or the color of their clothing. If going with the seasonal method, darker shades are worn in the fall and winter while brighter colors are worn in the spring and summer.

For blush, go easy. Big, red circles are not attractive unless you're in the circus. Use a light shade to complement the skin. This will be roughly the same color as if you actually blushed.

Lipstick and gloss are extremely popular. Be careful when using dark colors. Make sure the color complements you skin color and clothing. Many people stick with lighter colors similar to their natural lip color. Glosses are also a great way to achieve shiny, kissable lips without a lot of color.

Skin Type

It's important to know your skin type and use a makeup especially made for your type. Most foundations and concealers are made for oily, dry, combination, or normal skin. Water based foundations are best for oily skin, while oil-based creams work better with dry skin.

Teens' skin will change as they grow. It's hard to determine the best makeup for them. Using makeup for combination skin may be the best option until their skin is finished changing.

Other Considerations

The right makeup will not cause acne and splotching. If you notice any problems, discontinue use and find something else immediately.

During the summer, waterproof makeup is a must, especially if you spend much time outdoors. This will prevent your makeup from running.

Makeup with antioxidants, vitamins, moisturizers, and SPF should be considered over those without it. For dry skin, moisturizers will help the skin stay smoother longer. Also, SPF protects the face from the sun's harmful rays.

Remember to always wash the face before applying makeup. Also, remove all makeup before exercising or going to bed. This will prevent acne from makeup clogging the pores.

Choosing the right makeup isn't hard. Just take the time to know your skin type and color. Take a few minutes to check out the variety of products available at your local drug store and you will find the perfect makeup for you.