We could all probably use a refresher course in makeup basics. So here’s a start — it’s a rundown with a lot of great tips.

Mascara. With mascara, your lashes look thicker, longer and even curled. To find the right mascara for you, ask yourself what look you want: are you going for volume, length, length + curl, or volume + length?

As for putting on your mascara — you should always sweep the brush slowly from your lashes’ roots to their tips. Apply mascara from the outer lash to the inner lash, and don’t let it dry between coats, because that could make your lashes clumpy.

Eyeliner. Want to make your eyes look larger and your lashes look fuller? Use eyeliner to create a line on the upper or lower eyelid. It comes in pencil, mechanical pencil and liquid versions.

If you’re using a pencil eyeliner, make sure it’s sharp, and draw a line along your lash line from the inner to outer corners. Mechanical pencils are self-sharpening. They’re easier to use, and can be more precise. Use them like you would a regular pencil. With liquid eyeliner, start at the inner corner of your lid and create a line along the entire lash line following the contour of your eye. If you’d like a more dramatic effect, put it on a little heavier at the corners, and draw a line under your lower lashes, too. Be sure to use a cotton swab to blend and remove any excess eyeliner. 

Eyeshadow. Eyeshadow makes your eyes look brighter and more expressive. You can coordinate your eye shadow with your eye color, skin tone, or your clothing color. Using more than one color can give you a lot of different effects.

To put on your eyeshadow, use a sponge-tip applicator, a brush or your finger. And remember, a seasonal color change in your eyeshadow can really update your look. When you’re done, start batting those beautiful eyes.

Lipstick & Gloss. Lipstick and gloss will do wonders for keeping moisture in your lips and will undoubtedly draw attention to your fresh Spring look.

When you’re ready to put on the final touches, apply directly from the tube or wand or use a lip brush and start in the center of your upper lip. Work from the center to the outer edges of your lips, following the contours of your mouth. Then all you have to do is pucker up!

Foundation. A good foundation will conceal minor imperfections and even out skin color and texture. And an added bonus, if you choose one with an SPF, it will help protect your skin from the sun; keeping your face fresh and smooth for years to come.