Did you know that on average, a women will wait until the two and a half month mark to let her partner view her without makeup? Whether we like it or not, makeup is an important part of daily living for many of us. Here are three basic makeup tips that everyone should know, in general order of how these items should be applied.

1. Foundation

A lot of women are wondering how to put on powder foundation. It seems easy… after all, the powder often comes with a brush! However, certain application techniques will work better than others. The recommended motion is first applying powder horizontally with short back and forth strokes, like erasing words from a page. Then, use a slight rolling motion to even out rough textures. A note for how to put on powder foundation, make sure you have the right shade! There is nothing more awkward than looking at photos later and realizing it looks like you have a tan colored mask on that does not match your ears or neck.

2. Eyes

Your eyes are almost a little face unto themselves, for all the work that goes onto them. I would recommend investing in eye makeup primer. This is usually a liquid layer that helps other makeup stick to your skin, preventing the much loathed eyeshadow crease lines. For the best eyeliner, I would recommend either liquid or cake eyeliner depending on the look you are going for. Liquid gives a more exact line, while cake contributes to slightly smokey eyes. Before applying volumizing mascara, use an eyelash curler. This will help you naturally maximize the appearance of lash length.

3. Lips

There is no right answer for lips, but lipstick is a great basic. To make the most of your lipstick, lip primer is a good idea. This, like eye primer, helps your lipstick stick on and last longer. Lip primers also moisturize and condition your lips. To downplay the matte appearance of lipstick, and to help ensure an even distribution, use a touch of gloss, or even chapstick. Though some people outline their lips with lip liner, only do this if you are prepared to do checkups on distribution, otherwise after several hours you can end up with a clownlike outline around your lips.