MAKEUP FOR MEN

I've been asked several times to share my thoughts about mens grooming. I believe that less is more when it comes to the use of cosmetics. Most guy's skin doesn't have the texture to make the use of foundation invisible. So if you should need to cover a blemish or some other imperfection, use just a small dot of a concealer that matches your skin exactly. And then using your finger or a small makeup sponge, pat gently into the skin. Make sure to not use a sweeping motion as that will just wipe the coverup off the area you want to conceal. If you feel you need more coverage apply another thin layer over the area and again pat gently until the blemish is no longer visible. A very light dusting of baby powder over the concealer, using a small brush, will help to set the concealer and make it stay on longer. You can also use a cotton ball or a powder puff to again press or pat over the product. If you would like to add a subtle bronze look to your face, you can use a gel bronzer (as shown in the photo above). The trick is to apply using fast blending strokes as the gel drys quickly and can look streaky. Thats why I prefer a bronzing powder. Look for one that doesn't contain shimmer for a more natural look. Using a large makeup brush lightly sweep the powder over your entire face. And don't forget your eye lid area as well. Apply lightly and then if you feel you want to look more sun kissed apply a second time. I'm not a fan of plucking the eyebrows, but do like the finished look you get by brushing them into place with a soft toothbrush. If you feel your brows are too pale try adding just a little brown powder eyeshadow following your natural brow shape and then use that toothbrush to smooth them into place. This brushing action also helps to blend and soften the eyeshadow you just applied. TIP: A darker brow really helps to strengthen the look of a mans face. I would suggest going to a professional salon to have them tinted about once a month. Then you can skip using the eyeshadow on them. Also consider having your eyelashes tinted at the same time. Speaking of eyelashes I don't care for the look of mascara on a man because it looks too fake. Instead buy yourself a tube of a clear gel mascara, which can serve a dual purpose.The lash gel can be brushed over your finished eyebrows to help keep them in place. Plus you can  apply the same gel product onto your eyelashes which will darken them slightly and give them a nice accent. Now for the super brave or the more experienced. Purchase a eyelash curler. Curling your lashes really opens up the eyes and makes your eyelashes look longer. Just read the directions that come with it and then practice a lot, until they look just right. When it comes to your lips make sure their smooth and soft. If you see dry patches use your toothbrush and a bit of toothpaste to lightly scrub the scaly dry bits off. Not too hard though, you don't want to make them bleed. Add a touch of lip balm and you're ready to go "face" the world. Now, one of the most important habits to develop is good skin care. Something to clean you skin morning and night. And another product to exfoliate the dry patches a couple times each week. Or more depending on your skin type. Also a good facial mask is to be used at least once a month to tighten up pores and give a clearer look to your skin. In regard to all the products you use, it's always nice to purchase the high end TOM FORD type brands. However, if thats not in your budget, you can find some good stuff in your local drugstore.