Foundation for Flawless Makeup

Skin Prep & Primer: The American Way

In the U.S, glowing skin is the base of every great look. Start with a clean face, use a gentle cleanser, and hydrate with a moisturizer that suits your skin type. American favorites include lightweight, fast-absorbing products and SPF protection.

A good primer is a must for long-lasting makeup, especially with busy days or hot weather. Choose a mattifying primer if you tend to get oily in the T-zone (forehead, nose, chin), or an illuminating one for that "California glow."

Color Theory, American Style

Understanding color theory is essential for matching undertones and playing with bold or natural looks. For Americans, warm and cool undertones are key for choosing foundation, concealer, and contour shades.

• Analogous colors - Next to each other on the color wheel give a harmonious, subtle effect, think soft browns and peaches for an everyday look.
• Complementary colors - Opposites offer drama, like a bold red lip with subtle green eyeliner for a holiday party.

Must-Have Brushes & Tools

• Quality Brush Sets

  Invest in a great set of tools. In America, beauty lovers swear by brands like Sigma, Morphe, and Real Techniques.

• Synthetic vs Natural

  Synthetic brushes work best for liquid and cream products, while natural bristles are preferred for powders.

• Maintenance

  Clean brushes weekly with gentle soap or brush cleanser (think: Beauty blender Solid Cleanser) to avoid breakouts and keep application smooth.

Advanced Techniques for Standout Looks

Contouring & Highlighting: American Glam

Contouring and highlighting have become iconic thanks to American celebrities like Kim Kardashian. Use a cream contour for a natural chisel, or powder for more definition.

• Contour - Carve out cheekbones, slim the jawline, and sculpt the nose.
• Highlight - Pop the tops of cheekbones, bridge of the nose, and Cupid's bow.
• Step-by-step - Blend, blend, blend. Americans love a seamless finish, no harsh lines!

Dramatic Eyes: Cut Crease & Smokey Styles

From New York Fashion Week runways to TikTok tutorials, eye makeup trends in America are bold and creative.

• Cut Crease

  Use a light concealer to define your crease, then layer on vibrant shadow for eyes that pop.

• Smokey Eye

  Blend dark to light shades from lash line upward, using browns, charcoals, or even navy for a modern twist.

Lips: Full, Bold & On-Trend

Big, bold lips are always in. Over lining is popular for a fuller pout, use a liner just outside your natural lip line, then fill in with a liquid lipstick for all-day wear.

• Ombré Lips - Blend two lip shades for a gradient effect, a TikTok favorite.
• Matte Finishes - These are popular for their staying power during busy American days.

Eyeliner & Lashes for Instant Impact

Winged liner is a classic American favorite, think Old Hollywood glamour or Euphoria-inspired drama. Use tape for sharp lines or experiment with double wings.

False lashes are a staple, too. Trim them for your eye size and apply with a latex-free glue (Duo is a U.S. favorite).

Innovative & Trendy Techniques in the U.S.

Glitter, Metallics, & Festival Vibes

Glitter and metallics are huge, especially for festivals like Coachella or New Year's Eve parties. Use a sticky primer to lock in sparkle, and set with a spritz of setting spray.

Negative Space & Abstract Artistry

Negative space makeup—leaving parts of your eyelid or lip bare—is trending thanks to American editorial shoots and runway shows. Use tape or stencils to get crisp lines and experiment with bold colors for a modern, artistic vibe.

Stencils & Tape for Precision

Americans love DIY hacks, use painter's tape or ready-made stencils for sharp cat eyes or graphic liner looks. Always peel gently and clean tools immediately to avoid smudges.

Setting & Finishing Touches

Setting Sprays & Powders

A setting spray keeps your look intact from morning yoga to late-night taco runs. Choose hydrating formulas for dry skin or mattifying sprays for oily skin.

Translucent powder (try Laura Mercier, a cult-favorite in the U.S.) controls shine, especially in the T-zone.

Creative Accessories

From rhinestones (hello, festival season!) to pearls, American beauty looks often include fun extras. Use lash glue or cosmetic adhesive, and finish with a swipe of bronzer or blush for warmth.