10 THINGS I'VE LEARNED ABOUT MAKEUP

I've seen quite a few of these “10 things I've learned” posts, most notably from Jennypurr, and I've always found them enjoyable to read. I thought I'd get in on a piece of the action by sharing ten things I've learned about makeup. A few years ago I was a total noob about this stuff. I couldn't do a smokey eye for shet and I was rubbish at covering spots. But through finding wonderful ladies such Lisa Eldridge, Sam and Nic and Tanya Burr (and I guess going to makeup school... though honestly I think I learned less there) I feel like l've come a decent ways. So here we are with 10 tips about makeup:

1. If you're going for a smokey eye try doing your eye makeup first. You won't have to worry about fall out mucking up your foundation.

2. Don't bring your contour too far in or it can look like stripes. It should stop roughly in line with your outer eye, which is usually where the natural shadows from your cheekbones end.

3. If you're new to winged liner I really believe a thin angled brush and a gel liner is the easiest way to go.

4. If you're struggling with the shape of your winged liner, try tracing it out first with black eyeshadow, then go over it with your gel. Also you can smooth out your gel liner after with the black eyeshadow if it's looking wobbly. 

5. Brow powders are easier to get looking soft and natural than brow pencils. They're especially great for beginners.

6. In terms of covering blemishes, the brush you use for your concealer is just as important as the concealer itself. My favourites are the Real Techniques Domed Eyeshadow Brush (for larger, cystic acne) and the Coastal Scents Detail Mini (for pesky little red pimples).

7. A highly pigmented, dry textured cream concealer (such as Mac Studio Finish) is the best way to cover little pimples. The dry texture clings well and the cream formula builds well. Set with a powder when your done!

8. It's worth investing in good brushes. You can achieve so much more with them. The best part is that these days “investing” doesn't have to mean spending a lot of money thanks to brands like Real Techniques and Zoeva.

9. If you don't have lip liner, use a lip brush to smooth out the edges of your lipstick. It helps to create a cleaner look, especially with this new generation of liquid lipsticks.

10. Good skincare can make a huge difference to how your makeup looks. If you've got a smooth canvas, the paints will sit much better on top.