Tips and tricks for your everyday makeup routine

Have you ever had a face beat and thought, "there's too much going on here." Well, the truth is that a lot of black women struggle with achieving a flawless look for a myriad of reasons. To achieve that flawless glowing look, you might need to go the extra mile to do enough research on modes of applications, types of products to use, and how to use those products to enhance your already beautiful skin. I for one like to go down the DIY-type of learning route so I tend to watch a lot of videos on makeup application. Watching videos also give you a first-hand review of how a product could possibly look on your skin. I would definitely recommend videos- and not just one, for anyone who wants to go the extra mile. Some websites also have shade finders that take you through a series of questions to help you find the right shade. If you are looking for a more interactive session, some websites allow users to try on different shades until they find the perfect shade.

I have here a few tips and tricks just for you.

1. Work with your undertones and use products that compliment your tones. If you have warm tones, stick with earth-toned colors. A simple test to identify your undertone is to take a headshot in front of an off-white background. The off-white background, juxtaposed with your skin, would help bring out your tone.

2. Don't forget those lines- your concealer and your blush. Concealer helps highlight your perfect skin and blush elevates your cheekbones.

3. Metallic eyeshadow is your way to go for a more vivid look.

4. Build in layers for full coverage and apply primer before application to complete the look. Adding and building in layers is one sure way to get full coverage. Applying your foundation in layers allows you to gradually build coverage to reach that flawless look. Again, if you struggle with oily skin, remember to use a primer to reduce the shine and buildup of oil on your face.

5. Contour with a shade darker than your base foundation. When contouring, first identify your undertone and use 2-3 shades darker. For added structure, you can highlight with a concealer or illuminating product.

6. Finding the right shade, as basic as it sounds is very essential. Read further to help you find your right foundation shade. Going even one shade darker or lighter can ruin your look. Finding the right shade involves working with your hues, undertones, and earth tones.

7. Most importantly, do not forget to experiment, experiment and experiment. What better way to learn about your skin and how it works than trial and error? Nobody knows your skin better than you. Trying different products allows you to understand how your skin reacts with these products, and which ones work flawlessly with your skin. The most honest product review is your own experience.

8. Don't hesitate to try black-owned makeup brands. With the changing needs of customers, there has been a growing market for black-owned products, especially in the beauty industry. The idea is that black-owned makeup lines have a better understanding of what products best complement black skin. There are brands like Mented, black radiance, Fenty, the lip bar, etc.

Whatever your melanin-rich skin desires, there is now a wide range of products available. Flawlessly applying your makeup can do wonders to your skin even when it is done with little product. As a woman of color, do not be afraid to try new and bold colors that bring life to your skin. Remember, you are as confident as you look.

You can find more tips, tricks here, and product recommendations.