GirlsGuideTo | 5 DIY Makeup Cocktails

Are you searching for that perfect shade of lipstick or eyeshadow? Instead of wasting money purchasing product after product at the makeup counter, learn to make it yourself. Mixing makeup allows you to create a one-of-a-kind product that works best for your skin and complexion. Plus, it allows you to adjust the depth and shine of your products. Don't worry if you're not a regular DIY-er, all of these 'cocktails' include just two ingredients.

Bronzer + Lotion = Subtle Shimmer
When it comes to using bronzer, no one wants to be mistaken for a cast member of “The Jersey Shore.” It’s surprisingly easy to take bronzer too far, especially because many formulas contain glitter, which can look a little tacky if you’re not careful. For the most flattering results, you want to look subtly bronzed and glowing, but not glittery.

To achieve that tasteful balance, try mixing body bronzer with ordinary body lotion. This results in just the right amount of shimmer, so your skin will have a golden, glowing appearance. Mixing body bronzer with lotion is a great solution if you accidentally purchase bronzer that’s a little too dark for your face. Plus, if you use this beauty concoction just before the beach, the shimmer actually helps diminish the appearance of cellulite.

To DIY: Mix one part body lotion with one part bronzer. Add more lotion if the bronzer is very sparkly or too dark. Bonus, the body lotion ensures that the subtle sparkle will stick to your skin and not your dress.

Try:Bonne Bell Bronzing GelwithVaseline Total Moisture Lotion

Foundation + Sunscreen = True Full Coverage
Whether you crashed your bike as a kid or tripped in your platform heels, everyone has a few scars. But, instead of just slathering on foundation to cover those skin imperfections, take the time to protect them. Damaged skin tissue, like that of scars, is much more susceptible to sun damage, so it’s essential to protect it using SPF. For ease, mix sunscreen with foundation. The combination blends really well into skin, plus natural sunscreen has a reflective quality that enhances your glow and camouflages flaws beautifully.

Lipstick + Balm = Your Perfect Shade
Not quite happy with your lip shade? Layering shades and applying a glossy topcoat will just leave you with a messy and way too shiny pout. Instead, get the color you want by mixing two (or more) lipsticks with a moisturizing clear lip balm or gloss. Simply use the back of your hand as a palette, and keep the shades and balm separate. Then, slowly add the lipsticks of your choice to the balm until you reach your perfect shade. Not only will you have a shade customized just for you, but the balm will help prevent your lips from drying out. And while it will keep the shade form being too matte or heavy-looking, it won’t wash out the color.

Highlighter + Moisturizer = Illuminated Skin
Using a highlighter can be intimidating. It’s tricky if you’re not sure where to apply the highlighter and how much, so that’s why this beauty cocktail is so useful! Simply mix your highlighter with a face moisturizer in your hands. Then apply to your face before you layer on foundation. You’ll achieve a glowing-from-within look that’s believable. If you have oily skin, avoid the T-zone area since adding a highlighter could make those areas appear greasy instead of dewy.

Loose Pigment + Cream Shadow = Long Lasting, Perfect Shade Eye Shadow
Do you wish you could try some of the brighter, longer-lasting cream shadows, but don’t want to commit to just one color? Usually, when investing in a long-wearing cream shadow, we stick to neutral shades. Powder eye shadows offer colors in every hue of the rainbow, but they usually fade much quicker.

Your solution? Blend a bright loose powder with a cream shadow! You’ll have a bold hue with some serious staying power. Using a silver or white cream will make the color pop even more. Simply mix the colors ‘til you achieve the right shade, and just use your hand as the palette again.