Even the most makeup-savvy among us aren’t always prepared for the differences between prepping makeup for your daily life and getting ready to take an Instagram-ready photo. If you’re in the process of taking your fashion blog to the next level or want to professionalize your look to increase your influencer status, here are the top tips you’ll want to heed to make the most of every post.
Layering is Key for Flawless Skin
For smooth, poreless skin, you need to start with primer to smooth out the skin’s surface and make sure your foundation sticks. Blend your foundation (a silicon blender will be your new best friend) for a seamless, even appearance, then cover any remaining problem areas with concealer. Finally, reduce shine—this is especially important if you plan on using flash photography—with a mattifying powder that will set your foundation.
Bold Brows Rule
The “Instagram Brow” has become a fixation for a reason—brows totally define your face, adding structure and helping your eyes stand out. Using an eyebrow pencil in a shade slightly darker than your natural eyebrows for definition and work in small, hair-length strokes for a natural effect. Don’t go too dark or too heavy with your technique, as overly bold brows will make you look cartoonish instead of chic.
Use Highlighter Strategically
Photos, especially flash images, tend to make light bounce, so too much highlighter and you’ll look like you’re throwing off a glare. Pro artists recommend adding a touch of liquid highlighter to cheekbones, under the arch of your eyebrows just above your pupil, and a tiny dab in the cupid’s bow of your lip for a fresh, youthful look. Makeup mavens spend years mastering the art of highlighting and contouring, so you may have to practice this again and again until you get it just right.
Bring the Drama when it Comes to Lashes
We’re big proponents of a lot of lash, which will emphasize your eyes and make you look awake and alert. Even if high-drama lashes feel like overkill IRL, we guarantee they will look drop-dead gorgeous and natural in all of your photos. Use several coats of a lengthening and thickening mascara, or rock a set of false lashes—there are plenty of natural and easy-to-apply options on the market, so you’ll be sure to find one that works for you.
Always Add Lipstick
Even when you’ve done big lashes, bold brows, and a smokey eye, you’ll want a touch of lipstick to balance out your face in photos. Again, this might feel like a lot of makeup, but on Insta, you’ll simply look put together and polished. A good neutral, nude hue that is just a touch pinker than your lips will go a long way to brighten your face. Or, double down on the bolder factor and go for a rich red that will truly stand out.
Most of all, have fun experimenting with makeup that feels and looks good. And, don’t forget to take plenty of photos of your makeup and outfit in various poses and lighting, to make sure you’re making the most of your look. Happy posting!