An always in demand Hollywood look is the "Poreless Face". This look can easily take you from Red-Carpet to Wall Street and back again. The secret to the success and long-wearing effect of this look is in the application process. In this article, I will highlight my favorite products to achieve this look, which are all by Laura Mercier and work best because of their availability in various formulas for different skin types. So if you want to look as good as Halle or Angelina do in the spotlight, follow these steps and you will achieve the showstopping "Poreless Face" that everyone is talking about.
Step 1: Primer-To put it plainly, you must "prime" or prep your face for the various layers of product that will be used. Foundation Primer is a colorless, virtually weightless product that serves the purpose of creating an even, smooth surface on the face so all of your makeup will go on flawlessly. To get the best results, use a primer that best fits your skin type. A great choice is Laura Mercier Foundation Primer, which is available in three different formulas. The original formula is best for normal skin types, the hydrating formula is best for dry skin types, and the oil-free works best for combination and oily skin types. To apply, squeeze about a dime size amount into your hands, and liberally apply as you would facial moisturizer. Choosing the correct primer at this phase will determine how well your makeup will look and how long it will last later on.
Step 2: Tinted Moisturizer-After allowing the primer to dry slightly, which takes about 3-5 minutes, apply a tinted moisturizer. This product acts as a boost for your foundation and reduces the amount of concealer you will need later on because it is a lightweight, sheer foundation with buildable coverage. As with the primer, you will apply the tinted moisturizer in the same manner and allow it to dry completely before moving on to the next step. Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer works like a charm, the Illuminating Tinted Moisturizer works best with dry skin types, the Oil-Free Tinted Moisturizer works best for those of us with combination or oily skin types, and the original formula is for those with normal skin types.
Step 3: Foundation-Probably the most misunderstood cosmetic product on the market is foundation. Since foundation itself comes in about 6 different forms, it is sometimes hard to get know which is the right one for you. For the purposes of the porless face, you want to use what works best for you in terms of your skin type and desired coverage. If you have dry skin, go for Laura Mercier Silk Crème Foundation or Laura Mercier Moisturizing Foundation. If you have combination skin, I suggest Laura Mercier Oil-Free Foundation, Laura Mercier Mineral Powder SPF 15, or Laura Mercier Foundation Powder. Finally, for normal skin types, Laura Mercier Stick Foundation SPF 15 or Laura Mercier Mineral Powder SPF 15 will work best. As a general rule of thumb, liquid, crème, or stick foundations should be applied with a makeup sponge only in areas you desire more coverage. Blend the areas of the face where you use foundation with the tinted moisturizer so as not to have a blotchy effect. Powder Foundations should be applied with a foundation brush in areas where needed and blended.
Step 4: Concealer-Concealer does just that, it conceals. This step may not be necessary if you do not have any serious skin discoloration, scars, etc. However, if you have dark undereye circles, blemishes, scars, hyperpigmentation, or any other visible flaws on the face at this point, you will want to use concealer at this point. For undereye circles, Laura Mercier Undercover Pot works best, because it contains a concealer and a setting powder in one convenient package. For all other skin imperfections that are still visible, I love Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage. To apply either concealer, use either concealer brush and gently dab the product in the exact areas you wish to cover. A little goes a long way, so you don't need much product. After you are finished applying the product, use a makeup sponge and blend the concealer into your foundations in smooth strokes.
Step 5: Setting Powder-For the grand finale finish and to "set" all of your work, you need to apply a Setting Powder. Setting Powder is a colorless, preferably translucent product that adds that last little bit of polish to your look. It also serves double duty by absorbing any excess oil that may form on the skin while wearing makeup. Laura Mercier Mini Translucent Loose Setting Powder is my pick for this last step. To apply, use a foundation brush and gently swab over the entire face. For women who are tad bit oilier, go back with a clean makeup sponge and dab a little extra on your t-zone.
Ladies, now you are ready to face the world with your "Poreless" face. The products and process described above will give you that camera-ready look any time of day or night. This look is classic and timeless because it can be worn alone for daytime or with eyeshadows, blushes, and lipsticks to make it great for nighttime. As with any makeup application, practice makes perfect, and in no time flat you will be ready for any Red-Carpet.
Eyeliner is a small yet remarkable little tool in the process of creating a dramatic eye. In makeup, this is an element that is often overlooked because of lack of knowledge on which formula to choose (liquid, kohl, cream, or gel) and how to apply it. So if you want to know more about eyeliner and how to make it wear for hours with proper application, then read on and you will soon know how!
Step 1: Start with a Clean Face This may seem obvious, but it is absolutely necessary. Start with a clean face and make sure to pay close attention to the eye area. Since you have natural folds around the eye, it is easy for dirt and oils to get trapped there.
Step 2: Prep the Eyes With a clean brush, wipe away any existing makeup from the where the eyelid meets the lashline. Next, use a small bit of translucent powder and gently apply to that same area. At this step, you will also want to sharpen any eyeliner pencils if necessary. If you are a novice to eyeliner, a traditional kohl pencil would be your best choice. This is because it easily glides across the skin. A bestseller that I highly recommend is, CHANEL Stylo Waterproof Eyeliner, it has the added advantage of also being a mechanical pencil that is self-sharpening.
Step 3: Define the Top Lids To start, place your middle finger at the outer corner of your eye and gently lift the skin up and out. With your other hand, position the pencil on the outer corner of the lash line, tilt the tip slightly, so it's on its side and draw inward along the lashline. Use short strokes to draw and stop just before your reach the inner corner of your eye. Repeat for other eye.
*Tip: At this point, you will want to step about a foot away from the mirror to evaluate your work. If there are any gaps or uneven lines, repeat Step 3 to correct them.
Step 4: Define the Lower Lids With one hand, using your ring finger, lightly press the skin just below the center of your lower lashline. With your other hand, place the pencil tip on top of the lashes at the outer corner, slant it so the side rests on the lashline, and draw inward (directly on the lashline). Stop just short of the tear duct (the tiny hole you see in your lower eyelid). Repeat for other eye. Step 5: Blend & Finish This step may not be necessary if you have large eyes that tend to dominate your face. However for others, the sharp lines of the pencil tend to make eyes look smaller, so soften the edges by gently blending them with a wedge makeup sponge. To finish the look, use a taupe or neutral eye shadow across your eyelids for a daytime effect. For a more dramatic evening look, use a shadow that is the same color as your eyeliner or use two eyeshadows that are a few shades lighter that your eyeliner. Finish with your favorite mascara.
Eyeliner should now be your best friend! Not only do you know which one to choose if you are a novice, you also know how to apply it. There are many different formulas out there on the market, so take the time and give them all a try so you can find out which one works best for you. As with any makeup application, it will take a bit of practice to apply eyeliner and make it look perfect. Be patient with yourself and soon you will have the showstopping eyes everyone envies!
Saigon Li has sinced written about articles on various topics from Makeup, Skin Care and Makeup. Saigon is a skincare guru to the Stars and a freelance writer. Visit her website and get the most sought after brands in beauty used by today's Hollywood insiders at http:/. Saigon Li's top article generates over 1900 views. Bookmark Saigon Li to your Favourites.