COMPLEXION PERFECTERS

• CONCEAL FLAWS...STRATEGICALLY.

A full face of foundation-or too much concealer-can look and feel unnatural, says Mercier. She advises using cover-up only where you need it (and, where you don't, letting your own skin shine through). Blend.

• TRY A SOFT TOUCH.

Your ring finger is the perfect tool for applying makeup, says Davis, because it's the weakest digit. The more powerful index finger may apply color too boldly or tug too much (hello, wrinkles!) on your delicate skin.

• LOOK LUMINOUS.

Every face has natural shadows, and you'll look better if you brighten them, says Craig Jessup, makeup artist for Kevyn Aucoin Beauty. To find the shady spots , he says, just smile at yourself in the mirror. " You'll see darker areas-like your Cupid's bow, under your bottom lip, and at the inner corners or your eyes." To lighten those areas , dab on shimmery white eyeshadows. Blend if necessary.

• GIVE YOURSELF A MINI FACE-LIFT.

Apply blush starting at your upper cheekbone ( at the hairline near your ear) then brush across your cheek horizontally-not diagonally or downward-until you get to the center of your face."You'll be thrilled to see the difference when your blush is darkest at the hairline and faded at the apples, instead of vice versa," says Murray, "because it's more youthful."