Our makeup artist Patty Bell answered beauty and makeup questions submitted by you! Here’s what she had to say:
“How do I keep my eyeliner from running or smearing all day?”
Patty Bell: First of all, I’d recommend avoiding any rich eye creams, they tend to cause makeup to run. The key to keeping you eyeliner in place is LAYERING! Use an eyeshadow base first and apply your eyeshadows so the eyeliner has a powder base. I prefer using waterproof eyeliners such as: Urban Decay 24/7, Makeup Forever, or MAC Powerpoint, which are all very long lasting. After lining with the pencil, go over that pencil with an eyeshadow to set the liner and for extra staying power, top it off with a waterproof gel liner and finish with an eyeliner sealer such as She- Lac from Benefit.
“Do you recommend using cream or powder blush?”
Patty Bell: It depends. Powder blush is usually my first choice, but I do love the natural look of cream blush for a nice glow, or on a more mature skin, but not if your skin is oily. For longer lasting blush, use the cream first and set with the powder. I personally love NARS powder blush and Stila’s convertible colors for cream blush.
“What is the difference between foundation and concealer?”
Patty Bell: Foundation is used to even out the skin tone and is meant to be applied all over the face while concealer, which is a heavier consistency, is used to cover things such as blemishes, under eye circles, birthmarks, etc. They are frequently used together for the best results with the foundation going on first, followed by the concealer. Make sure to set everything with a translucent powder for the longest lasting makeup application.
“I always feel like I’m caking on my foundation, I need it, but I don’t want to look like Snooki. Any suggestions?”
Patty Bell: Make sure your skin is clean and exfoliated before applying foundation and always start with a primer on the skin first for the smoothest looking skin. Foundation does NOT need to be applied all over the face. You can just spot treat areas that need the most coverage and blend with a wet makeup sponge. I personally love the Beauty Blender sponges. It gives a flawless, airbrushed look to the skin, by gently pressing the little pink egg into the skin.