Smashbox Makeup Tips

Smashbox Cosmetics is a major player in the makeup industry, and its makeup artists are highly sought after for professional photo shoots. Drawing on their wealth of knowledge, Smashbox makeup artists offer dependable tips to inspire beauty in everyone.

Face

Smashbox artists insist that using a priming product is essential for flawless makeup application and coverage throughout the day. A layer of primer helps your foundation stay in place without melting or rubbing off. Choose a primer formula that is right for your skin type. Some primers also have color-correcting capabilities if you need to cover up redness or blend in discolorations. Before applying foundation, apply one pump of primer to your face and gently blend it in with your fingers.

Smashbox recommends that you use foundation sparingly. Use the back of your hand as a makeup palette; apply one pump of liquid foundation to the back of your hand and use this technique to control the amount of foundation you pick up with your sponge or brush. Rather than covering your whole face, use a makeup brush or sponge to dot foundation only where you need it. Then, starting from the center of your face, blend the foundation outward and downward. For a more radiant look, try applying your foundation with a damp natural sea sponge.

Keep cheek color subtle. Instead of using a default peach or pink blush, find a color that mimics your natural flush. Some women may get a more natural look by substituting a highlighter or bronzer for a blush. To achieve the look of perfectly high cheekbones, try this technique: Before applying bronzer or brush, softly blend a concealer that is one shade lighter than your skin tone under your cheekbones.

Eyes

If you have dark circles under your eyes, Smashbox artists recommend that you opt for an eye brightening product instead of foundation. Eye brighteners will diffuse the darkness and give the illusion of a well-rested face. Apply brightener under the eyes and blend out gently with your fingers. For an even brighter look, smudge some at the inner corner of your eyes as well.

Lining your eyes can be difficult without the right tools and techniques. Daniel Chavez, an international makeup artist for Smashbox, suggests avoiding liquid eyeliners because of their tendency to dry out quickly and look too harsh. To get a softer, fresher liner, use cream liner with this technique: Make a series of small eyeliner dots along your lash line, then connect and smudge the dots together with a smudger brush. Not only will this create a soft, smooth line, it's also much easier than trying to draw a perfect line all at once.

Lips

To keep your lipstick in place throughout the day, apply a lip primer before applying color. This will also help neutralize pink tones if you're trying to achieve the glamorous nude-lip look. When it comes to color, find a shade that enhances your complexion instead of trying to match your outfit. To achieve a softer look on your lips, opt for a creamy cheek color instead of lipstick. Dab the cream onto your lips for long-lasting color and subtle shine.