COSMETICS Powder helps create a fine finish

It provides a smooth base for blush and eye shadow.
NEW YORK (AP) -- Flip through the pages of InStyle and everyone looks great. Now the magazine's editors share their beauty tips in the new book "Getting Gorgeous: The Step-by-Step Guide to Your Best Hair, Makeup and Skin" (Melcher Media).
The first thing to do is to understand cosmetic products -- including what they do, how they should be applied and who they are appropriate for.
When it comes to enhancing the skin, InStyle's team says powder still has its place.
"Many women think powder is hopelessly old-fashioned. But it's excellent for holding foundation and concealer in place, creating a smooth canvas for blush and eye shadow, and giving skin a luxurious finish," according to the book.
Guide
Here's how to wear it correctly:
UPressed powder, which provides a heavier, more matte finish than loose powder, is portable and perfect for touchups. It can be worn on bare skin, as a sheer base or on top of foundation.
If you have oily or acne-prone skin, look for an oil-free formula. Smooth it on fast in fast, upward strokes with the velour powder puff or sponge that comes in the compact. Be warned, though, that these puffs and sponges are bacteria magnets and should be washed (with anitbacterial liquid soap) or replaced once a month.
ULoose powder, whether it's pigmented or translucent, sets makeup, blots shine and leaves skin looking lightly buffed.
Pigmented powder should have pale yellow or golden overtones that match your skin.
The ideal texture should be fine, fluffy and weightless.
To apply, dip a big fluffy brush into the powder and then blow on the bristles or tap the brush handle on your forearm to get rid of any excess. Sweep it onto your face in soft upward motions.
UBronzing powder gives skin a healthy, tanned appearance. Look for warm golden or brown tones a few shades darker than your skin. The sheerer the texture, the more natural it will look.
Bronzing powder also helps neutralize red or ruddy complexions.
It should feel soft like any loose powder, or, if it comes in a compact, like pressed powder or blush.
Bronzing powder should be applied with a big fluffy brush over foundation or on bare skin. Instead of spreading it evenly all over the face, put it only where sunlight would naturally hit, including the center of the forehead, the bridge of the nose, the tops of the cheekbones and the chin.
UIridescent powder gives skin a sexy shimmer with its light-reflecting ingredients such as pearl and mica.
It feels like loose powder and can be used over foundation or on bare skin. Use a large brush to sweep it across the forehead, cheekbones and jawline.
For extra sparkle, continue down to the shoulders and collarbone.