How Can You Make Sure Your Makeup Lasts all Day?

We have all the insider tips you need to keep your powder puffed, your lipstick stuck, and your mascara on your lashes, so you can look your bridal best all day long.

The Canvas
It all begins with your skin. We know that you take care of your face, drank plenty of water, and stayed out of the sun. Follow these steps to get your face makeup-ready for the wedding day:

• Start using a lip balm or moisturizer -- color fades unevenly on dry, chapped lips.
• Don't use harsh treatments on oily skin -- you could actually increase the oil in your skin. Instead, create a skincare routine using cleansers and balancers that have been customized for your skin type.
• The months before your wedding are the days to experiment with makeup -- take the time to choose a custom makeup palette that's perfect for your complexion. Make sure you've made your selections at least one month before the wedding in order to avoid any potential reactions to new products.
• Get your last regular facial a week before the wedding.
• If you rarely have facials, don't get one within a month of the wedding.

The Base
You've done your homework. Your skin glows. What comes first? Foundation? Powder? Concealer? Try these tips for a flawless complexion:

• Apply moisturizer 20 minutes before starting your makeup -- to minimize slide.
• Use concealer under your eyes. If you think you'll be a teary bride, look for an oil-based concealer.
• If your foundation wears away easily, try a formula with a little oil -- sounds strange, but it works.
• Finish your foundation with face powder.

The Cheeks
For a blushing bride look that doesn't dissolve during the ceremony, try these great techniques:

• Use a powder-based blush -- it'll last longer than a cream blush.
• Alternatively, try a cheek stain; just be sure to blend fast. Once the stain sets, it stays put.

The Eyes
Try these tips to keep your eye makeup in place through the waterworks:

• Prep your eyelids with an eyeshadow base or a little face powder.
• Use waterproof mascara. Allow each coat to dry for a few seconds before applying the next layer.
• If you expect to cry a lot, leave your lower lashes clean; this minimizes smudging.
• Try an eyelash perm -- the French swear by this spa technique. Results last for about nine weeks.

The Lips
You'll need lip color that lasts without constant touchups. Try these steps for a lasting, kissable smile.

• Skip your lip moisturizer or apply it at least an hour before starting your makeup.
• Prep your lips with a little foundation to give the color a base.
• Using a lip liner, first outline your lips; then fill them in for an extra layer of color.
• Apply your lipstick with a lip brush.
• Apply one layer of lipstick, blot with a tissue, and apply the second layer.
• For color that really lasts, try a lip stain. This is a particularly good choice if you want a bright, high-maintenance lip color, like ruby red.
• Moisturize your lips in the days before the wedding -- lip stains can be drying.
• If you use lip stain, apply it directly to lips -- skip the foundation and lip liner steps.
• Be sure to have makeup remover ready for mistakes; lip stain won't just wipe off.

Test-Drive Your Makeup
You should test your makeup at least two weeks before your wedding to leave time to make any adjustments. Give your finished makeup a few minutes to set; then mist your face with water from a spray bottle. The spray will simulate tears and give you a good idea of how your makeup will hold up to a good cry. Keep your makeup on through at least one meal and see how you look after a few hours. If you're still picture-perfect with just a few minor touch-ups, you've got a winning routine. Now get out there and smile!