Get Glam: How to Put On Makeup and Get Your Nails Done
Who doesn't love a full glam makeover? Between flawlessly applied makeup and freshly manicured nails, its easy to feel like your best self when you put in the effort. While makeup skills come with practice, getting a professional manicure or pedicure at your favorite nail salon is a great way to round out your look. Read on for tips on putting on makeup and getting your nails done for a completely pulled together, confidence boosting appearance.
Planning Your Makeup Look
Achieving a stunning makeup look requires a bit of planning and preparation. Here are some tips:
- Start with clean, moisturized skin to create a smooth canvas.
- Decide on the overall style you want - natural, bold, glamorous, etc.
- Choose colors that complement your complexion and eye color.
- Select quality makeup products that suit your skin type.
- Have the right makeup brushes on hand for blending and application.
- Watch tutorials to learn techniques if you're new to makeup application.
- Allot enough time to apply each step without feeling rushed.
Having the right mindset is also key - view makeup as a means of self-expression and embracing your natural beauty, not covering it up. Confidence is always the best look!
Prepping Your Skin
Achieving flawless looking makeup requires starting with a skincare routine to hydrate and prep your complexion. Steps include:
- Washing your face with a gentle cleanser suited for your skin type.
- Exfoliating 2-3 times per week if you have dry skin or clogged pores.
- Applying a hydrating toner, essence, or serum while skin is damp.
- Massaging in a rich night and/or day cream, depending on time of day.
- Allowing moisturizers to fully absorb before applying any makeup.
Well hydrated, smooth skin helps makeup glide on evenly. Use any needed spot treatments before makeup, like benzoyl peroxide for acne. You may also apply primer - silicone-based options help minimize pores and lines.
Choosing Your Makeup Products
The quality of your makeup products makes a huge difference in achieving a flawless complexion. Some shopping tips:
- Foundation - Pick a liquid formula that matches your skin's undertones and provides comfortable wear. Options like BB and CC creams have built-in skincare benefits.
- Concealer - Liquid or stick formulas help cover dark circles, blemishes, and discoloration.
- Powder - Mineral or pressed powders set makeup and reduce shine. Avoid if you have dry skin.
- Blush - Cream or powder blush in pink or coral tones gives cheeks a healthy glow.
- Eyeshadow - Choose a palette with both neutral mattes and shimmer/glitter shades for day and night looks.
- Eyeliner - Gel or liquid liner is easiest for smooth application. Pencil is great for smudgy, softer lines.
- Mascara - Look for formulas that lift, lengthen, volumize, and hold a curl.
- Lip color - Pick flattering shades like pink, rose, red, or nude in cream or matte formulas.
Invest in quality makeup you love applying - avoid anything that irritates your skin or feels heavy and cakey.
Applying Your Makeup
Once you have your makeup products assembled, follow these steps for application:
- Moisturize - Apply your skincare first and allow serums and creams to fully absorb.
- Prime - Use a primer if desired to smooth pores, even tone, and prep for foundation.
- Foundation - Dot on your foundation and blend outward with a damp makeup sponge for natural coverage.
- Conceal - Use a brush or sponge to pat on concealer and neutralize any discoloration.
- Powder - Lightly dust on powder with a fluffy brush to set liquid makeup (optional for drier skin types).
- Cheeks - Smile and apply blush to the apples of your cheeks in an upwards sweeping motion toward temples.
- Eyes - Apply neutral base shades on lid, add definition in crease, and blend. Sweep on eyeliner and 2-3 coats of mascara.
- Brows - Brush brows up and out, use pencil or pomade to fill in any sparse areas.
- Lips - Exfoliate first and use a lip liner if desired. Apply lipstick color and blot for longer wear.
- Set - Mist on a hydrating makeup setting spray to blend and hold makeup in place all day.
Don't be afraid to remove and re-apply any product needed until you achieve your desired look. Having the right makeup brushes and tools makes application much easier.
Choosing a Professional Nail Salon
Nothing completes a put-together beauty look like a fresh manicure or pedicure. While possible to DIY at home, visiting a salon takes the hassle out of nail care. Look for a clean, reputable salon that:
- Has licensed nail technicians and a current state board inspection certificate on display
- Appears tidy and sanitary - no clutter or dust
- Uses autoclaves to sterilize metal tools
- Provides a thorough consultation to assess nails
- Has comfort amenities like massage chairs, heaters, and entertainment
Salons with all private pedicure stations are ideal for comfort and hygiene. Look at reviews and ask for recommendations from friends to find a high quality salon.
Pedicure Pampering Tips
Pedicures involve caring for nails as well as lower legs and feet. Key steps in a salon pedicure include:
- Removing old nail polish - Acetone soak off is typical for a professional pedicure.
- Foot soak - Warm water softens skin and helps remove debris.
- Exfoliation - Scrubs slough off dead skin cells and smooth roughness.
- Cuticle care - Gentle cuticle pushing and trimming neatens the nail bed.
- Callus removal - Buffing gently smoothes and thins thickened skin.
- Nail shaping - Filing gives nails uniform length and shape.
- Foot and leg massage - Kneading eases soreness and invigorates muscles.
- Moisturizing - Hydrating creams replenish dry skin.
- Polish application - Fresh polish provides the finishing touch.
Consider upgrades like paraffin wax or collagen masks to pamper feet and leave skin silky soft.
Manicure Magic for Hands
Professional manicures primarily focus on nails and cuticles. Standard services include:
- Old polish removal
- Brief soak and scrub to cleanse
- Cuticle care - gentle pushing back and trimming
- Nail shaping
- Smoothing away roughness with a buffing block or gentle file
- Hand massage
- Moisturizing lotion application
- Fresh polish in your choice of color</
FAQs
How can I learn to apply makeup like a pro?
Start by watching online tutorials and practicing techniques using quality brushes and products. Invest time learning skills like blending, contouring, and choosing colors that suit your complexion.
What nail shapes are most flattering?
The most flattering nail shapes include rounded (oval), squoval (square with rounded edges), and almond shapes. Avoid very sharp points or angles which can be prone to breaking.
How can I make my manicure or pedicure last longer?
Using a UV or LED lamp to cure gel polish allows it to set fully and last 2-3 weeks without chipping. Avoid water exposure and use cuticle oil daily to also extend the life of your manicure.
What is the proper nail tip length?
A properly shaped nail tip extends just beyond the end of the finger. For most people, the ideal length is between 1/16 to 1/8 inches beyond the finger.
How often should I get a manicure or pedicure?
Every 2-3 weeks is ideal to maintain neat, polished nails and prevent overgrowth. Get pedicures as often as needed based on how quickly your nails grow.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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