Makeup Basics, Definition, Terms, and Brilliant Techniques 2023

Makeup Basics Definition

Face Makeup

Makeup consists of different types of cosmetic products that are applied to the skin to enhance or alter a person’s appearance. It typically includes products such as foundation, concealer, powder, blush, eyeshadow, eyeliner, mascara, lip gloss, and lipstick, among others.

Some people wear makeup as part of their daily routine, while others may only wear it for special occasions or events. The definition of makeup can vary depending on cultural, social, and personal preferences, but generally, it refers to a set of cosmetic products used to enhance or change one’s appearance.

Makeup is used to enhance and modify the appearance of the face, or body. It can be used to hide imperfections, create different looks, or add color and definition to features. The use of makeup dates back thousands of years and has even time to include a wide range of products and techniques. Today, makeup is widely used by people of all genders and ages for personal expression, fashion, and to boost confidence.

For a simple face of makeup, you will need the following items:

1. Primer: To help your makeup stay in place and create a smooth surface for your foundation.
2. Foundation: To even out your skin tone and create a smooth base for your makeup.
3. Concealer: To cover any blemishes, dark circles, or other imperfections.
4. Powder: To set your foundation and help your makeup stay in place.
5. Blush: To add color and life to your cheeks.
6. Mascara: To enhance your lashes and open up your eyes.
7. Lip balm: To hydrate and protect your lips.

You can use a brush, sponge, or your fingers to apply the products. Additionally, you may also want to invest in a good quality makeup remover and makeup wipes to remove your makeup before going to bed.

Note that this is just a basic list and you can add or remove items based on your personal preferences and the look you want to achieve.

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Base Makeup

Base makeup refers to the first layer of cosmetic products that are applied to the skin as a foundation for the rest of a makeup look. The purpose of base makeup is to create a smooth and even canvas for the rest of the makeup to be applied on, and to help the other products stay in place and last longer.

Typically, base makeup includes products such as primer, foundation, and concealer. Primer helps to create a smooth and even surface for the foundation to adhere to, while foundation provides coverage and helps to even out the skin tone. Concealer is used to cover up dark circles, blemishes, and other imperfections that may still be visible after the application of foundation.

The choice of base makeup products can vary depending on a person’s skin type, skin concerns, and desired coverage level. Some people may prefer a lighter, more natural look, while others may prefer a heavier coverage for a more made-up appearance.

Primer

Makeup primer is a cosmetic product that is applied before foundation to help create a smooth, even base for the rest of a person’s makeup.

Primers are designed help to extend the wear of makeup. They can fill in pores, and help to smooth and even out the skin tone, creating a more seamless canvas for foundation and other makeup products. They can also provide a sticky layer that gives foundation something to stick to, and then last longer.

Primers can come in a variety of formulas, including silicone-based, oil-based, and water-based, and are designed to address specific skin concerns, such as dryness, oiliness, and dullness.

They are typically applied after moisturizer and before foundation and can help to create a flawless, long-lasting look. Whether you use a primer is a personal decision and depends on factors such as skin type, desired look, and the type of makeup you will be applying.

Concealer

Concealer is a cosmetic product mostly used to cover up blemishes, dark circles, or other imperfections on the skin. It can also be used to highlight areas. It is usually applied after moisturizer and before foundation and is available in a variety of shades to match different skin tones. Concealers are typically thicker and more pigmented than foundation and can be used to build coverage in specific areas where it is needed. They may also contain ingredients to help hydrate and nourish the skin and can be used alone or in conjunction with other makeup products.

Foundation

@kellystrackofficial How to get a flawless foundation base every time you do your makeup #fyp #makeup #beauty #makeuptutorial #makeuphacks #foundation #k18results ♬ original sound – Kelly Strack

Makeup foundation is a cosmetic product used to create an even base for the rest of a person’s makeup. It is applied to the face after moisturizer and often before concealer. Its designed to even out the skin tone and provide a smooth, uniform surface for other makeup products.

Foundation can come in a variety of formulas, including liquid, cream, powder, and stick, and is available in a large range of shades to match different skin tones. The coverage provided by foundations can range from sheer to full, depending on the desired look and skin type. In addition to providing coverage, some foundations may also skincare care ingredients that help to hydrate, protect, and improve the appearance of the skin.

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply foundation for a smooth, even complexion:

1. Prep your skin: Before you start applying foundation, make sure your skin is clean and moisturized. This will help the foundation to blend evenly and smoothly.
2. Choose the right shade: When choosing a foundation, make sure to test it on your jawline to find the right shade. The right shade should blend into your skin and not be lighter or darker.
3. Apply primer: If you want your foundation to last longer, consider applying a primer. This will help to fill in any fine lines and create a smooth base for the foundation. It will also help the foundation grip better.
4. Apply foundation: Take a small amount of foundation on the back of your hand or a palette and use a brush, sponge, or fingertips to apply it to your face. Start from the center of your face and work your way outwards, blending well.
5. Blend, blend, blend: Make sure to blend the foundation into your neck and hairline so that there is no noticeable demarcation line. Use a damp beauty blender or a buffing brush for a seamless finish.
6. Set with powder: To help set the foundation in place and prevent it from looking shiny, you can dust a translucent powder over your face.
7. Add concealer: If you have any dark circles, spots, or blemishes, you can use concealer to cover them up after applying the foundation.

When it comes to applying foundation for a natural look, it’s crucial to blend it seamlessly and ensure it matches your skin tone. If additional coverage is desired, you can apply another layer of foundation.

Setting Powder

Setting powder is a cosmetic product used to set makeup in place and reduce shine. It is applied after applying foundation, concealer, and other base makeup products to help them stay in place for a longer period of time. Setting powder comes in different forms, including loose powder and pressed powder, and is available in a range of shades to match different skin tones.

The powder is applied with a brush, puff, or sponge and is typically translucent or has a slight tint to blend in with the skin. Its main function is to absorb excess oil, prevent creasing and smudging of makeup, and provide a matte finish to the skin.

Setting Spray

Setting spray is a cosmetic product used to help set makeup and extend its wear time. It is applied after applying makeup, such as foundation, powder, and eye shadow, and helps to lock it in place for a longer period of time. Setting sprays are designed to hydrate the skin and provide a refreshed, dewy look. They come in a variety of formulas, including matte, radiant, and extra-hold, and can be used to address specific skin concerns, such as oiliness or dryness. Setting spray is usually applied with a fine mist from a spray bottle and can be used throughout the day to refresh and revive the skin. The purpose of setting spray is to create a barrier between the skin and makeup, helping to prevent smudging, smearing, and fading, and ensuring that the makeup stays in place for hours.

Cheek Makeup

Blush

Blush is a cosmetic product used to add color to the cheeks to enhance the overall complexion. It is applied with a brush or a makeup sponge to the apples of the cheeks to give the face a natural flush of color.

Blush can come in a variety of forms, including powder, cream, and liquid. It can range in shades from light pinks to deep berry hues to match different skin tones and desired looks. When applied correctly, blush can add dimension and warmth to the face, giving the appearance of a healthy, natural glow.

Bronzer

Bronzer is a cosmetic product that is designed to give the skin a sun-kissed glow. It is typically applied to the face and other areas of the body to create a warm, tanned appearance.

Here are some of the benefits of using bronzer:

1. Creates a natural-looking tan: Bronzer can help you achieve a healthy, sun-kissed glow without having to expose your skin to harmful UV rays.
2. Contours the face: When applied correctly, bronzer can create the illusion of a slimmer face by contouring and highlighting specific areas.
3. Adds warmth and depth: Bronzer can add warmth and depth to the skin, helping to create a more radiant and youthful appearance.
4. Enhances a tan: If you already have a tan, using bronzer can help to enhance and deepen the color.

Overall, bronzer is a versatile cosmetic product that can help you achieve a natural-looking tan and enhance your overall appearance.

Highlighter

Highlighter is a cosmetic product used to enhance the high points of the face and create a glowing, radiant complexion. It is typically applied to areas of the face that naturally catch the light, such as the cheekbones, brow bones, the bridge of the nose, Cupid’s bow, and the most popular is lipstick.

Highlighters come in a variety of formulas, including powder, liquid, and cream, and can range in shades from subtle, natural-looking highlights to more intense, shimmery ones. The idea behind a highlighter is to add a subtle sheen to the skin, making it look more youthful and refreshed.

When applied correctly, a highlighter can enhance the overall appearance of the face, giving it a luminous, healthy glow.

Contour

Contouring is a technique of applying makeup to create the appearance of shadows and highlights on the face, to enhance the natural bone structure, and to create a more defined and sculpted look. It involves using makeup products that are darker than the skin tone to create shadows in areas where the face naturally recedes, such as the hollows of the cheeks, temples, and jawline.

Contouring can be achieved using a variety of products, including cream or powder bronzers, contour palettes, and highlighters. The technique involves careful blending to create a natural-looking result. Contour makeup is often used in photography, stage makeup, and special occasions to create a more defined and dramatic look. However, it can also be used in everyday makeup to create a subtle enhancement of facial features.

Eye Makeup

“Your eye makeup says so much about you and your style.”

– Laura Mercier

Eye makeup is a great way to enhance the natural beauty of your eyes and make them stand out. Here are the basic tutorial and steps for doing eye makeup:

1. Prime your eyes: Apply a primer to your eyelids to help your eye makeup stay in place and prevent creasing.
2. Apply eye shadow: Choose a neutral or vibrant eye shadow color, depending on the look you want to achieve, and apply it to your eyelids. You can use a brush or your fingers to blend the color.
3. Define your crease: Use a darker shade of eye shadow to define your crease and create depth.
4. Line your eyes: Use an eyeliner pencil, gel liner, or liquid liner to line your upper lash line. You can also add a wing to the end of your upper lash line for a more dramatic look.
5. Add mascara: Apply a coat or two of mascara to your lashes to enhance their length and volume.
6. Fill in your brows: Use a brow pencil or powder to fill in your eyebrows and shape them.
7. Finish with highlights: Apply a highlighter to the inner corners of your eyes, under your brow bone, and on your cupid’s bow to add brightness and a glowing effect.

These are the general steps for doing eye makeup, but you can adjust them based on your personal preferences and the look you want to achieve. Remember to always remove your eye makeup before going to bed to keep your eyes healthy.

Learn how to coordinate your eye makeup with your face mask.

Eyeliner

Eyeliner is a cosmetic product that is applied to the skin around the eyes to define and enhance the appearance of the eyes. It is typically a colored pencil or liquid that is applied along the lash line of the upper or lower eyelid or both. Eyeliner can be used to create a variety of different looks, ranging from subtle and natural to bold and dramatic.

Eyeliner is available in a variety of forms, including pencil, liquid, gel, and powder. Pencil eyeliner is the most common and easiest to use, as it allows for precise application and is less prone to smudging. Liquid eyeliner is more difficult to use but creates a more dramatic and defined look.

Eye Shadow

Eyeshadow is a cosmetic product that is applied to the eyelids and under the eyebrows to enhance the appearance of the eyes. It is typically a powdered or cream-based product that comes in a wide range of colors and finishes, from matte to shimmer.

Eyeshadow can be used to create a variety of different looks, from subtle and natural to bold and dramatic. It can be used to enhance the natural shape and color of the eyes, or to create more defined or smoky looks. Eyeshadow is applied using a small brush or applicator and blended carefully to create a seamless, natural-looking effect.

Mascara and Lashes

Mascara is a cosmetic product used to enhance and darken the appearance of eyelashes. It typically comes in a tube and is applied with a brush or wand. The product is formulated to coat and lengthen the lashes, making them appear thicker and fuller.

False lashes, also known as artificial lashes, are individual lashes or strips of synthetic fibers or human hair that can be applied to the eyelid to enhance the appearance of lashes. They come in various styles, lengths, and thicknesses and can be applied temporarily with eyelash glue or semi-permanently with individual lash extensions.

Both mascara and false lashes are used to enhance the appearance of lashes, but mascara is a more temporary solution and can be easily removed, while false lashes are a more long-lasting solution that typically requires a professional application.

Brow Makeup

Brow makeup is a cosmetic product used to define and enhance the appearance of the eyebrows. It is typically applied to the eyebrows using a pencil, powder, gel, or pomade, to create a more defined and polished look.

Brow makeup can be used to fill in sparse or thin areas of the eyebrows, to shape and define the eyebrows, or to create a more dramatic and bold look. It can also be used to darken or lighten the color of the eyebrows to match the hair color.

There are many different types of brow makeup products available, including pencils, powders, gels, and pomades.

Here are the steps for creating a well-groomed and defined eyebrow look:

1. Prepare your brows: Gently brush your brows with a spoolie brush to remove any oils or product buildup.
2. Map out the shape: Use a brow pencil or powder to lightly sketch out the desired shape of your brows. Keep in mind the golden rule of brows, which is to start at the inner corner, the arch at the highest point, and end at the outer corner.
3. Fill in sparse areas: Use a brow pencil, powder, or pomade to fill in any sparse areas, following the natural shape of your brows.
4. Blend the product: Softly blend the product through your brows with a spoolie brush or a clean mascara wand.
5. Set the brows: To keep the makeup in place, you can use a clear brow gel or a light-hold hairspray.
6. Finish with concealer: Finally, clean up any mistakes with a concealer and a fine brush.

Remember to choose a shade that matches your hair color, and always apply the product lightly for a natural look.

Lip Makeup

There are various types of makeup products made for the lips. The most popular is lipstick, lip gloss, tinted lip balms, and lip liners.

Lipstick

“Joy is the best makeup. But a little lipstick is a close runner-up.”

– Anne Lamott

Lipstick is a cosmetic product that is used to color and moisturize the lips. It comes in a wide range of shades and finishes, from matte to glossy, and is typically made from a combination of waxes, oils, pigments, and emollients.

Lipstick is applied directly to the lips using the applicator brush or by using a lip brush for more precise application. Some lipsticks are also formulated with additional benefits, such as sun protection, hydration, and anti-aging properties.

When choosing lipstick, it’s important to consider factors such as skin tone, occasion, and personal preference. For a natural look, neutral shades such as nude, pink, or coral are popular choices, while bolder colors like red, berry, or plum can be used to make a statement.

It’s also important to choose a lipstick formula that suits your needs and preferences, such as a long-lasting formula for all-day wear, or a moisturizing formula for dry or chapped lips.

In summary, lipstick is a versatile cosmetic product that can add color, hydration, and shine to the lips, making it a staple in many makeup bags.

Lip Liner

Lip liner is designed to line around the lips to define the lips and help create more depth. It is also very common to “overline” which means to go a little further past your natural lip line, to give the appearance of larger or more “plump” lips.

Makeup Sanitization

Makeup sanitization refers to the process of cleaning and disinfecting cosmetic products or tools to remove any dirt, bacteria, or germs that may have accumulated on the surface. This is done to maintain the hygiene of the makeup products and to prevent the spread of infections or illnesses. Makeup sanitization can be achieved through a variety of methods, including using alcohol-based sprays or wipes, boiling or microwaving tools such as brushes and sponges, or replacing products after a certain period of time. It is important to regularly sanitize makeup products to ensure that they are safe to use and to help extend their lifespan.

Brush Cleaner

Brush Cleaner restores and sanitizes dried, hardened synthetic bristle brushes, artist brushes, roller covers, trays, and equipment after painting. It will remove hardened latex and oil-based paints, enamels, shellacs, varnishes, lacquers, and polyurethanes.

Makeup Accessories

Makeup Tools

Makeup accessories refer to the tools and products used to apply and enhance makeup. Some common makeup accessories include:

1. Brushes: There are many different types of makeup brushes, each with a specific purpose, such as foundation brushes, powder brushes, eye shadow brushes, and lip brushes.
2. Sponges: Beauty sponges, such as the famous beauty blender, can be used to apply foundation, concealer, and other liquids evenly on the skin.
3. Mirrors: A good quality mirror is essential for applying makeup and checking your look. Some mirrors come with built-in lights to help you see every detail.
4. Tweezers: Used for plucking eyebrows and removing unwanted hair.
5. Lash curler: Used to curl lashes and give them a more defined look.
6. Eyelash comb: Used to separate lashes and remove clumps.
7. Pencil sharpeners: Used to sharpen pencils like eyeliner, brow pencils, and lip liners.
8. Makeup bags: Used to store and organize makeup products.
9. Makeup removers: Used to remove makeup at the end of the day.

These are just some of the many makeup accessories available. Choosing the right accessories for your needs and preferences can make applying makeup easier, more efficient, and more enjoyable.

Makeup Brushes

There is no single “best” brand or type of makeup brush, as the best brush for you will depend on your personal preferences and the types of makeup you use. However, some popular and well-regarded brands include:

• Sigma Beauty: Sigma’s brushes are known for their high quality and affordable prices. They offer a wide variety of brushes for different makeup applications.
• Morphe Brushes: Morphe is a popular brand that offers a large selection of brushes, including brush sets and individual brushes.
• MAC Cosmetics: MAC is a well-established brand that is known for its high-quality brushes, including its best-selling 217 Blending Brush.
• Real Techniques: Real Techniques offers a wide range of affordable brushes for all your makeup needs. They also have brush sets that cater to specific makeup applications, such as their Core Collection set for basic makeup applications.
• Artis Brushes: Artis brushes are known for their unique oval shape and innovative design, which allows for the precise application of your makeup products.

It’s always best to choose brushes made with high-quality materials, like natural or synthetic bristles, and a sturdy handle.

Sponges

Another popular tool to apply your makeup with, is a sponge. Some of our favorites are:

• Original Beauty Blender.
• Morphe Highlight & Contour Beauty Sponge.
• Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge.
• E.L.F. Camo Concealer Sponge.
• EcoTools Bioblender Biodegradable Makeup Sponge.
• Fenty Beauty Precision Makeup Sponge.

Makeup Bags

Storing your makeup can sometimes be a challenge, especially when traveling.

Here are some of the cutest and best makeup bags currently available:

1.     Ban.do “Super Star” Makeup Bag: This bag is perfect for those who love a bit of glam. It has a glittery, star-studded exterior and a spacious interior that can fit all your essentials.

2.     Kikki. K “Makeup Case”: This bag is made from high-quality faux leather and features a minimalist, chic design. It comes in a variety of colors, so you can choose the one that best matches your style.

3.     Anya Hindmarch “Eyes” Makeup Bag: This fun and quirky bag features a whimsical eye design and comes in a range of bright colors.

4.     Sephora Collection “Glamour eyes” Makeup Bag: This bag has a fun and playful design, with a metallic exterior and bold graphic accents. It’s a great option for those who love a pop of color.

5.     Pat McGrath Labs “Makeup Case”: This luxurious bag is made from high-quality materials and features the iconic Pat McGrath branding. It’s perfect for those who want a high-end, designer bag for their makeup.

All of these bags are well-reviewed and are sure to be both stylish and functional.

Makeup Brands

There is a wide range of makeup brands to choose from, and the “best” brand for you will depend on your personal preferences, skin type, and the types of products you are looking for. However, some of the most popular and well-regarded brands include:

• Benefit Cosmetics: Benefit known for its whimsical packaging, cheeky product names, and fun, playful approach to makeup.
• Nars: Nars is a popular brand that is known for its high-quality, pigmented products and innovative formulas, such as the famous Orgasm Blush.
• Maybelline: Maybelline is a popular drugstore brand that offers affordable, high-quality makeup products, including their cult-favorite Great Lash Mascara.
• Lancôme: Lancôme is a luxury brand that offers high-end makeup products, including their best-selling Teint Idole Ultra Wear Foundation.
• Estée Lauder: Estée Lauder is a well-known brand that offers a wide range of makeup products, including skincare and fragrance.
• Charlotte Tilbury: Charlotte Tilbury is a brand is known for its high-quality, luxurious products and is a favorite among celebrities and makeup artists.

It’s always best to choose products from reputable brands and to research individual products to make sure they are a good fit for your skin type and preferences.

News

There are several places to find the latest news and information about makeup, including:

1. Beauty blogs and websites: Popular beauty websites such as Allure, Cosmopolitan, and Sephora often feature articles and news about the latest makeup trends, product launches, and tips.
2. Social media: Instagram and YouTube are popular platforms where makeup artists, beauty influencers, and brands share tutorials, product reviews, and other beauty-related content.
3. Beauty magazines: Print and digital magazines such as Elle, Vogue, and InStyle often have sections dedicated to beauty and makeup, and they often feature news and articles about the latest trends and products.
4. Brand websites: Many cosmetic and beauty brands have their own websites, where they often share news about new product launches, collaborations, and events.
5. Online forums and communities: Online beauty forums and communities, such as Reddit’s r/MakeupAddiction, can be a great place to get makeup advice, and product recommendations, and to stay up to date on the latest news and trends

Trends

To stay up-to-date on the latest makeup trends, there are several ways to follow them:

1. Social Media: Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, and Pinterest are popular platforms where you can follow makeup artists, beauty influencers, and makeup brands to see the latest looks, tutorials, and product recommendations.
2. Beauty Blogs: Websites like Allure, Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and Into The Gloss are great sources for makeup tutorials, product reviews, and trend reports.
3. Beauty Magazines: Traditional beauty magazines such as Cosmopolitan, Elle, and Marie Claire often feature articles on the latest makeup trends and how to achieve them.
4. Beauty Events: Beauty events like the International Beauty Show, the Makeup Show, and the IMATS (International Make-Up Artist Trade Show) showcase the latest products, tools, and techniques from leading makeup artists and beauty brands.
5. Fashion Week: Fashion week is a great way to see the latest makeup trends in action, as designers and makeup artists collaborate to create unique and innovative looks for their runway shows.

By following these sources, you’ll be able to stay up-to-date on the latest makeup trends and be inspired to try new looks and techniques.

Celebrities

There have been much iconic celebrity makeups looks throughout the years, here are a few of the most famous ones:

1. Marilyn Monroe’s red lips: Marilyn Monroe’s classic red lipstick look is still widely imitated today. She often paired her bold red lips with neutral eye makeup and long, curly lashes.
2. Twiggy’s Mod eyelashes: Twiggy’s big, bold lashes defined the Mod look of the 1960s. She often wore heavy mascara and false lashes to create her signature doe-eyed look.
3. Princess Diana’s blue eyeliner: Princess Diana was known for her elegant and timeless style, and her signature blue eyeliner is one of her most memorable beauty looks.
4. Madonna’s conical bra: Madonna’s cone-shaped bra became an iconic look after she wore it during her 1990 Blonde Ambition Tour. The look combined a bold, heavily lined eye with a bright red lip.
5. Lady Gaga’s meat dress: Lady Gaga’s meat dress at the 2010 MTV Video Music Awards was one of the most talked-about beauty looks of the year. She paired the dress with a bold red lip, heavy eyeliner, and bleached brows.
6. Kim Kardashian’s contour: Kim Kardashian’s signature contoured look has become one of the most imitated beauty looks in recent years. She often combines a heavily contoured face with nude lips and smoky eyes.

These are just a few of the many famous celebrity makeups looks that have inspired generations of beauty lovers.

Makeup Artists

It’s subjective to determine the best makeup artist, as it depends on personal preferences and individual skills. However, some well-known and highly-regarded makeup artists include:

1. Pat McGrath – Known as the “Queen of Couture” and considered to be one of the most influential makeup artists in the fashion industry.
2. Charlotte Tilbury – A celebrity makeup artist who has worked with many A-list celebrities and has her own line of beauty products.
3. James Charles – A young, talented makeup artist who rose to fame on social media and is known for his creativity and versatility.
4. Lisa Eldridge – A celebrity makeup artist who has worked with many top models and has her own YouTube channel where she shares tutorials and beauty tips.
5. Huda Kattan – A makeup artist and entrepreneur who is known for her Huda Beauty brand and her YouTube tutorials.

This is not an exhaustive list and there are many other talented makeup artists who are highly regarded in the industry.