Makeup do’s and don’ts for beginners

Makeup doesn't have to look overly complicated to look good (Image: Shutterstock)

Are you a pro when it comes to makeup or a total newbie? Whichever one you are; you can always benefit from a few makeup tricks.

After all, we all want to look our best, use products that work well, and have the assurance that the products we use won’t harm our skin or overall health.

When you are just entering into the world of makeup – everything can seem quite intimidating. Like, how do you find the right foundation for your skin complexion?

And should you apply eye-liner and how exactly should you do it? When you search online on blogs or YouTube makeup channels, information overload can make you want to give up before you even get started!

But makeup need not be complicated, over the top, or something you need to spend all of your hard-earned money on. This is why I have compiled some dos and don’ts to help you understand the best way to apply makeup to look and feel effortlessly beautiful:

Do not buy too many products

Many makeup newbies assume they must embrace the seemingly endless assortment of products that their favourite bloggers and YouTubers endorse.

However, you do not have to invest in high-end products as a beginner. Many drugstore options work as perfectly as the designer-label stuff.

Start with the basics – eye pencil, mascara, foundation, and lipstick.  That is all you need for a basic makeup kit! If you do not know which products to buy, the attendants at the store will be more than happy to help.

They can help you test the best shade of foundation for your skin tone, and find the best products for your budget.

As you get more comfortable with makeup, you can slowly expand and experiment with eyeshadows, eye-liner, blush, more lipstick colours and so on. You can also invest in more expensive options after you have mastered your makeup skills using cheaper but high-quality products.

Do prioritise skincare

How good your makeup looks is largely determined by the skin underneath, especially if you are not going for full coverage. That is why a good skincare routine needs to be a top priority for every beauty lover.

Learn about your skin type and invest in the right skincare products for it. For example, if you have acne-prone skin, invest in products that are less likely to cause breakouts. An acne-free skin means a smoother-looking foundation.

Again, you do not have to go for big brands. Finding the ideal product for your skin at the right budget can be a bit of trial and error.

It is also important to understand that your skin is ever-changing – the products that work perfectly for you today might not be so good for your skin in five years. You will, therefore, need to constantly update your skincare routine to meet your skin’s ever-evolving needs.

Do use a makeup primer

Are you worried about your makeup affecting your skin? Do flaws on your skin make your makeup look off? Here is where makeup primer comes in handy!

It forms a base over your skin on which to apply your makeup. It also moisturises your skin and helps your makeup last for longer.

Do not sleep in your makeup

When you finally get home from a long day at work or a night out, you just want to crawl into bed. Not so fast! First, take time to remove your makeup and moisturise your skin.

Sleeping in your makeup can clog your pores, which can make them larger. Clogged pores also mean acne breakouts, irritation, and rashes. Sleeping in your makeup can also dry out your skin, which also leads to breakouts and premature lines and wrinkles.

Do experiment and have fun

Lastly, do not forget to have fun with your makeup. After all, makeup is an art, not an exact science. Experiment with colours, try new things and keep learning from beauty gurus online and offline. Practice your makeup skills and perfect them over time.