Master Mineral Makeup in four steps

Step 1 - Face
Ace your base - To make minerals last, prep skin with primer. For a non-cakey look, apply liquid foundation, like Maybelline New York Mineral Power Natural Perfecting Foundation SPF 18 ($10 at drugstores), with a damp sponge.

Camouflage Imperfections - Dot concealer onto flaws with a small makeup brush. Pat extra on with your finger for more coverage.
Get a flawless finish - Dip a fluffy brush, such as the Dior Backstage Makeup Powder Brush ($52 Sephora), into a translucent powder and sweep on.

Step 2 - Cheeks
Create a fresh flush - This requires a two-pronged approach. First, make a "3 and an E" on your face using bronzer and a brush: Beginning on the right side, draw the number three so the bristles start at your hairline, hit your cheekbone, and outline your jawline. Repeat the same motion on the left side, outlining an imaginary E. Second, add blush to the apples of your cheeks so they pop. A bronzer to try: Physicians Formula Mineral Wear 100% Mineral BronzeBrightener ($14 at drugstores); a must-have blush: CoverGirl TruBlend Microminerals Blush in Natural Rose ($11 at drugstores)

Step 3 - Eyes
Emphasize your eyes - Regardless of the look you're going for - subtle or dramatic - the goal is a standout gaze. Complement brown eyes with earthy tones, subtle golds, or soft grays; enhance blue eyes with shimmering taupes, like Pur Minerals Pressed Mineral Eye Shadow in Gold Marcasite ($13 at purminerals.com); and play up green eyes with khaki or moss shades. To intensify the effect, sweep on a liner in a matching or - for evening drama - contrasting shade. Finish with two coats of black mascara.

Step 4 - Lips

Paint your pout - The pigments in mineral formulations aren't as saturated as traditional ones, so you might have to add coats to get the intensity you desire. Pick a hue that works with your skin tone. If you're fair, choose softer pinks similar to Wallett Eco Gloss in Bohemian Blush ($20 at wallett.com); if you're medium, try a vibrant berry hue, such as Emani Minerals Hydrating Mineral Lip Color in VIP ($16 at emani.com). Everything from beigey bronze to rich plum flatters a dark complexion.