Classic makeup dos and dont's you should know

Makeup is an art and while I don't believe in rules, I believe in guidelines. So whether you are a makeup enthusiast or just starting out, the following tips will definitely come in handy.

DO use the right foundation for your skin tone. Your best bet is to ask the attendant at the store to do a quick demo on your face by testing the foundation from your cheek down past your jaw. You're not going to wear foundation on your neck, but you want to make sure it looks natural from your face to your neck. Swiping the colour on the back of your hand just won't work!

DO wear concealer under your eyes. It can take five years off your face, especially if you have dark circles under your eyes. The rule of thumb is to choose a colour one or half a shade lighter than your skin tone.

DO use complementary makeup colours. Think of your blush and lipstick as an outfit you're going to wear on your face. For example, if you are wearing a pink lip colour, your blush should be from a similar colour family.

DON'T overdo your eyebrows. Brows that are drawn-on, strongly arched, or too heavy can make you look older than you really are, plus they can look harsh and dated. DON'T over-moisturise around your eyes. Too much moisturiser encourages concealers and foundations to travel right into the very lines you're trying to hide. If you feel you need an extra-emollient moisturiser around your eyes, apply it at night after you've removed your makeup, and use lighter-weight products during the day.

DON'T skip the lip colour. Adding a pop of colour to your lips can brighten up and polish your overall look.

DON'T be afraid to be bold and step out of your comfort zone.

Keep these guidelines in mind the next time you do your makeup, and you will certainly make heads turn; for all the right reasons!

Ruth 'Ruthie' Kinuthia is a make-up professional and founder of Makeup by Ruthie.