Applying Mineral Makeup

Are you new to using mineral makeup? Most probably, you have heard all the benefits of using this type of makeup and why many women are making the switch from puffing up their pressed foundation or using bottles of liquid foundation to go for the fluffy dusting of minerals on their skin. Mineral makeup is nourishing, and it contains no artificial ingredients. It’s perfect for everyday wear, and those special occasions when you want to look fabulous.

Applying mineral makeup can be a relaxing experience, knowing that you aren’t putting anything harsh on your skin. But if you’re a newbie, it can be frustrating if you’re not achieving the results you expect. To help you with that dilemma, here are some pro tips on how to apply mineral makeup:

Choose the best shade

Changing your foundation is tricky, especially if you have one that you’re using for years because it suits your skin tone. But don’t worry, switching to mineral makeup will give you ample choices so you can find one that can suit your skin tone. When shopping for a new mineral foundation, test the color on your jawline close to your neck, or the fleshy part of your hand between the wrist and the thumb. If you’re shopping online and you can’t test it, hold the color sample next to your wrist and choose the closest match.

If you want to conceal blemishes on your skin, you may choose a shade that’s darker than what you think you need. Don’t worry – mineral makeup won’t make you look too dark, because it’s designed to brighten your complexion.

Prepare your skin

Cleanliness is the key to beauty. Start by cleaning your face thoroughly and also make sure that your hands are washed first to reduce the chances of spreading dirt and bacteria.

After cleansing your skin, use a good quality moisturizer. Allow it to be entirely absorbed by the skin by leaving it to settle for a few minutes before taking the next step, which is applying makeup. Ensure that your whole face and neck are moisturized.

Start by concealing

Begin with using your mineral concealer to hide redness, dark circles, spots, and pigmentation. It’s preferable to use a liquid mineral concealer or foundation to minimize dark eye circles and redness around the nose before applying foundation to the face. Gently dab the concealer unto the skin and blend it using a light patting motions.

If what you have is a mineral powder concealer, you can dip a flat concealer brush to your mineral foundation powder. Tap off excess powder, and press on what’s left to the place where you need it. If you have oily skin and you want a matte finish, you may want to consider applying a mineral finishing powder as well. Using a brush, create a light, circular motions for a natural matte effect.

If you don’t have specific blemishes to conceal, but you want a fuller coverage on red patches, layer the foundation on those affected areas using a full-coverage brush with densely packed fibers.

Apply the foundation

When it comes to applying mineral foundation, your brush is the most important tool. Make sure that you invest in a quality kabuki brush. A kabuki brush is shorter and denser than a regular brush, giving your face more coverage. Dip the brush into the powder foundation, then push the bristles against the back of your hand gently to get the powder to the brush. Tap the sides of the brush to remove excess makeup, then swirl it around your face from the T-zone, then inner cheek area. Work your way outwards. Pay attention to all areas, including the area near the ears and under the chin. Use a fairly firm pressure to buff the foundation to a smooth and even finish.

What’s great about the mineral foundation is a little goes a long way. One helpful tip is to pour a small amount of foundation to the lid to help avoid using large amounts that you don’t need. Once you have done this a few times, you will estimate the perfect amount you need for optimal coverage.

Add a blush or bronzer

Whether you use a blush or a bronzer, you will be applying it in the same fashion. Dip the brush lightly into the mineral powder on the lid, then swirl it gently. Tap off any excess powder. Place the brush on your cheek where the middle of the eye sits – this is usually where the apple of your cheeks are. To check, smile lightly to identify which area of the cheek rises up and outwards. Using a circular motion, apply the blush or bronzer to the apples of your cheek, then go upwards towards the ears.

Use eye shadow

If you’re in the mood to add some eye shadow (or if occasion requires it), make sure that you have a light, even covering of foundation on your eyelids to act as a base. Using your eyeshadow brush, dab it into the eyeshadow, then tap off any excess powder. Apply it to your eyelids in a short, downward stroke starting from the outer corner of the ear going in.

Pro tip: hold a tissue under the eyes as you apply the eyeshadow to catch the excess powder.

Add a finishing veil

Use a finishing veil powder for a finishing touch to hold the mineral makeup in place for longer. This kind of product also adds to the flawless glow of the makeup. Some brands offer this in a loose powder form, while others on a pressed form. If you’re using a loose finishing veil powder, put a small amount unto the lid, swirl in the powder using an all-purpose brush, then tap off excess. Start by lightly sweeping it over your nose, cheeks, forehead, and chin. Then, close your eyes and gently sweep it over your eyelids.

Apply your finishing touches

Once you’re done with your makeup, apply mascara and lip gloss or lipstick. Adding these products adds the perfect amount of extra color to your look.

So there you have it – you are now prepped with using mineral makeup effortlessly.