When applying foundation, start in the center of the face

Phillips says she always likes to start in the center of the face and work her way out. She explains that one benefit of applying foundation this way is that you avoid getting too much product near the hairline.

Apply foundation in upward strokes

“I always like to apply the foundation in upward strokes,” says Phillips. This technique helps lift the face.

Start with less product

Less is more, according to Phillips. She advises starting with less product because while you can always go back and add more later down the line putting too much on at the start can create a cakey mess. “You always want to go light because you’re blending stuff together, so you just want to kind of gently work it [in],” says Phillips.

Use a product two shades darker for contour

Phillips advises using a product that is two shades darker to contour. You can use this technique under the cheekbone and a bit around the hairline to create dimensions.

Apply concealer in more areas than just your under-eyes

Phillips says she likes to apply concealer in spots that she plans to highlight. She uses concealer in the center of the forehead, corners of the eyes where we get a bit of darkness and the outer corners “to give a little bit of a lift and highlight.”

Use tools, not your fingers

“The technique is easy when you have a good tool,” says Phillips, noting that they make seamless makeup application much easier than working with your fingertips. “Why would you want to use your fingers when you have tools like this?” she says of the Hourglass Cosmetics brushes.

Double-check any lines or pores

Phillips says it’s really important to “make sure that the product is out of any line or pores” before you use setting spray or powder. Ensuring you don’t set makeup in these spots will help avoid creases.

Use setting powder

“I just like to lightly set with a little bit of setting powder” so that everything stays in place, says Phillips. She notes that she brushes most of the extra product off.

Apply blush where your cheeks “get big”

Phillips says she loves blush. She advises applying it “right where your cheeks get big to just get a little bit of color.”

Use a bigger brush while bronzing and a smaller brush while applying blush

A bigger brush allows the product to look more airbrushed, says Phillips. While this is an optimal look for bronzer, it’s not generally the goal for blush, so stick to a smaller brush when applying blush.

Use a setting spray to help makeup stay in the heat

Phillips says a setting spray, like Veil Soft Focus Setting Spray ($48), is great for helping makeup stay intact in the heat. However, she notes that it’s okay if your makeup needs a little touch-up throughout the day—that’s only natural.