Makeup
first of all i have to say that most makeups are the same. that is there is no need to pay for real expensive makeup from your Dillards or Nordstrom counter. if you can afford it then why not treat yourself but there really is no need. Cover Girl is just as good. and if you buy your makeup from the grocery store it is even cheaper than Walmart.
just one thing. mascara is a problem unless you buy an expensive one. in this case buy the most expensive one you can afford. it is the only thing that i would say "you get what you pay for."
Almay One Coat is good if you don't have a lot of money.
Shelf Life
the shelf life for makeup is really longer than you think. (except mascara, then it is 3 months)
for eyeshadow and blush you can put some rubbing alcohol in a spritzer and spray it and let it air dry.
keep your brushes, sponges and eyeshadow applicators clean. once a week soap and water and more if you have acne. this especially goes for your compact sponges and puffs. again let them air dry.
Foundation:
in the heat of the summer. (like Las Vegas) don't use the liquid foundation as it will get all over your cell phone and your clothes and your boyfriend. instead use the compact foundations. i recommend the Maybelline Pure Stay. it has a bit of powder in it and won't rub off. also it has an spf 15 sunscreen. make sure the color you choose matches your neck so it blends evenly. you don't want to look like you have a mask on. or you can just wear self tanner on your face as a foundation (apply every few days) scrub your face first(apricot scrub) and then moisturize and then apply.
Coverup:
don't use cover up under your eyes. it just makes you look old and stupid. use that only for blemishes and then dab a bit of powder over the zit to keep the cover up from coming off.
Eyes:
if you wear eye pencil under your eye(or on top) then put a dab of eyeshadow on it to keep it from smearing. use a lighter and flick the tip of the pencil if it is hard and hurting during application. let the eye pencil cool for a few seconds and then use it.
lipstick:
i wear the lip stains:
first because they stay on all day and second because they don't rub off on my boyfriend or clothes and third because i only have to apply one time and thats it. they are called mood sticks and they are really cheap. like dollar store cheap. they come in all colors but usually end up being pink after application. then i sometimes put another color on top.
blush:
this is something to use sparingly unless you want to look like a clown. apply to the apple of your cheek. like a light breeze.