How to Apply Makeup in 10 Easy Steps

Apply a primer or BB cream with a built-in moisturizer and SPF—go for an SPF 15 or higher. These multipurpose products prep, hydrate, and protect your skin in one step.

Hide under-eye circles, blemishes, and hyperpigmentation with a concealer that matches your skin tone. Use a pointed concealer brush to dab the product on, then blend with your clean finger.

Apply foundation to your T-zone and any problem areas. For sheer coverage, use your fingers to blend foundation into your skin; for more coverage, use a foundation brush.

Lightly dust loose translucent powder over your foundation to set it and leave a matte finish.

Use a large soft-bristle brush to apply blush to your cheeks. Start at the apples and then sweep upward toward your temples.

Use an eyebrow pencil or cream to fill in sparse areas and create a well-defined arch. Focus the product on the upper half of your brow line for an instant brow lift.

Swipe a neutral eye shadow across your eyelids and up to your brow bone. For more definition, blend a darker earthy shade, like taupe or charcoal gray, into your eyelid crease.

Apply black eyeliner on your upper lash line. Start drawing from the inside corner of the eye to the outer corner. Keep this line thin so that it works well from day to night.

Apply two coats of black or brown mascara. Hold the mascara wand, starting at the root of your eyelashes, and move it up in a zigzag motion to ensure every lash is coated.

Line your lips with a lip liner that coordinates with your lipstick. Then, use a brush to dab the color onto your lips in a downward motion. Choose a medium-hued color for daytime—think rose or coral—and add a layer of shimmery gloss to play up your lips for an evening out.