Many women are often looking for ways to reduce the amount of mistakes that can be made when applying makeup – errors can ruin great looks and be time-consuming to fix. While human error may account for a few mistakes you make while putting on makeup, you may be able to avoid some mishaps by applying cosmetics in a particular order.

Though women often start with foundation, Real Simple magazine reports that experts suggest that you start with your eye makeup to keep loose particles of shadow from sticking to your concealer and creating a smudged mess.

Next, apply concealer to circles, dark spots and blemishes. Follow with foundation if you desire complete coverage, and powder if skin is shiny. To brighten your complexion, brush a colorful blush onto the apples of your cheeks.

The news source recommends putting on your lip color of choice last, so that you don’t smudge it while working on the rest of your face. While sheer glosses can be slicked on quickly, if you opt for bright or dark lipstick, apply the product with a brush for precision.