Tools of the Trade
The indispensable: powder puff and brushes to set camouflage makeup.
Using professional makeup brushes creates the difference between a simple makeup job and a polished, professional appearance.
My weapons of choice to attack annoying little culprits are great makeup brushes, concealers, foundation and color…lots and lots of color. Keep everything transparent and natural looking using the best tools you can find.
All camouflage techniques require brushes of specific sizes and shapes to achieve excellent coverage. These are different than the brushes you would normally use for color cosmetics. The right brush shape is designed to take the place of fingertips and the rounded and feathered edges help prevent streaking; they apply and blend evenly stroke by stroke.
If you buy quality brushes and care for them, they will last many years. Bacteria lurks everywhere, so it is necessary to clean, condition and sanitize your brushes, and powder puffs every few days. I love Cinema Secrets™ professional brush cleaner or use a drop or two of Woolite™, especially for your “puffs”. After cleaning, reform, shape and dry on a towel or if you’re in a hurry, dry with a hair dryer.
Brushes you will need:
- Fine tipped brush (eyeliner or lip liner brush) works well for precision spot concealing for fine lines and small scars.
- Small oval camouflage brush, (the size of your baby finger) is used “to place” concealer under eyes, under lashes, into the inner corner of your eye, under the brow, and on to the lid; creating a smooth even palette for successful color application.
- Medium oval camouflage brush, (the size of your middle finger) is wider, giving you more control as you blend the concealer from the under eye area downward onto your face.
- Small fluffy eyeshadow brush fits perfectly under your eyes for a light powdering.
- Large oval face brush for your foundation will blend and further refine your application.
- Large fluffy brush or Kabuki brush is used when it’s time to powder the entire face.
When you are using your fingers, always ”lift out” product with a spatula so not to spread germs.
No double dipping with fingers!