Getting started

Written By Matthew Weiss
"I've never worn makeup a day in my whole life! Where do I even BEGIN!?"
Does this sound like you? Have you ever walked into a cosmetic store and spent hours slinking through the endless labyrinth of celebrity-endorsed products, being accosted with bold claims and promises to aid against some condition you didn't even know you had? Or are you just looking for a simple way to get your foot in the door without buying useless products you don't truly need- or WORSE: products you will never end up using?

Well this post is for you!

When I graduated makeup school, I was fortunate enough to get hired on as a Licensed Beauty Advisor for Sephora and it turned out to be a very rewarding experience. One of the things I took great pride in was bonding with and helping people like you. While, admittedly, the main aim of any retail operation is to load customers' baskets up to the point of tearing a bicep, I liked staying real with my clients.

“You don’t need this, that, and the other… you can get THE JOB DONE with only x,y,z. THIS PRODUCT IS $58, LET ME SHOW YOU SOMETHING THAT WILL WORK JUST AS WELL FOR $15!”

So, in the tradition of keeping it real... here are a few reminders (not rules) for getting started into the world of cosmetics that will keep both budget and sanity in mind!

  1. Take a deep breath.

    Seriously! We all gotta start somewhere! It's normal to feel overwhelmed at first.

  2. Have an idea.

    Bringing a photo of a look you're trying to accomplish yourself. Some products and techniques can be hard to explain to a store clerk, but a picture is worth 1,000 words.

  3. Be realistic & Start slow.

    If you're new to applying makeup, be realistic in knowing that a lot of techniques won't come overnight. Starting with a simple yet streamlined process with a modest amount of products will keep you from not only getting overwhelmed, but it will also allow you to build onto your routine and master essential steps like foundation application and blending technique.

  4. Skin care is #1!

    Despite the name, "foundation" is not THE FOUNDATION of an effective makeup look. Taking proper care of your skin is ESSENTIAL for  a cleaner, more beautiful result. Increasing the amount of care you put into your skincare routine is not only great for your overall skin health, but it will tackle a lot of problems early on, prevent serious issues, and will boost your confidence. Always consult a professional to get the most effective care.

  5. Get a color match.

    Purchasing the wrong color of foundation can ruin the entire look and can be discouraging. While most stores have reasonable exchange policies for this reason, you can save yourself the hassle and ask for a color match. Doing this on your own can feel like a daunting task, so trust the professionals! You'll also be able to judge for yourself in the mirror before you buy.

  6. Tools - Less is more

    You can reuse a lot of tools or repurpose them as you go! Although TECHNICALLY there is a brush for every step of the process, you can comfortably accomplish an entire look with only 5 or 6 different brushes. For example, you can use a powder brush to apply bronzer, wipe that same brush off on a clean towel, and apply blush with it!

  7. be aware of the game.

    As I mentioned before, retail is a business that relies on sales. Employees have goals. This is not to disparage any retail associate whatsoever; sales associates can be such a valuable asset in assisting us finding answers to complicated questions and finding great solutions! Before I became skilled, I can't even count how many times I've been sold large baskets worth of junk I would never end up using... what was the purpose of this? Not to mention... how would you feel getting home, looking at 25 new products with barely any knowledge on how to use them? Just stay on your toes and you'll be fine!

  8. Don’t let the price tag fool ya! 

    Just because it's expensive, it doesn't mean it's the best.

  9. Tutorials rock!

    We are so fortunate to be alive during the era of YouTube. Take advantage of the wealth of information at your fingertips. While I wouldn't recommend purchasing EVERY product from EVERY tutorial, a great deal of information can be learned by simulating techniques. Have fun!

    and finally….

  10. products to start with:

    I will go over a few personal favorite BRANDS down the road, but hear me out: we all have opinions on what's "the best." I know what I swear by, but this list grows and evolves with my artistry... It can be exhausting to hear, especially when everyone is throwing out brand names left and right. Here are some staples, independent of who makes them. Do your own research on what fits or appeals to YOU, that's the best part.
    1) Face wash / Toner - remember: skincare is the most important step!
    2) Hydrating Moisturizer - GOOD for your skin & gives the makeup a great surface.
    3) Foundation- evens out skin tone!
    4) Concealer- the usually thicker formula not only covers up, but can be used to highlight!
    5) Contour / bronzer- defines areas such as cheekbones and minimizes other areas.
    6) Blush- that pop of warmth or rosiness that really finishes the look!
    7) Eyeshadow palette- gives you a wide range of colors to accentuate the eyes.
    8) Mascara- because we've gotta bring out those lashes!
    9) Brushes- a set of 5-10 brushes will do ya! (Types: foundation, powder, shadow, etc.)
    10) Setting spray- a fine mist of THIS will lock in your makeup look, increasing longevity.
Matthew Weiss