Stephanie - I know make-up fairly well and I am no make-up artist by any means lol. I will say that there are a few tips I have learned in FLAWLESS cosmetic application :-)
1.) First things first prior to apply cosmetics you need a good cleanser that works well for your skin type. There are 3 main catergories of skin types
A.) Dry skin
B.) Combination ( T zone ) Forehead/nose/chin
C.) Oily
Once you've washed your face, you need a toner !. I prefer to use Witch Hazel it's got anticeptic properties that'll kill bacteria's and help clean out pores even more and even more leaves your skin refreshed. Some people may be allergic to it and I would say try it and if it breaks you out in hives don't use it. I would avoid most chemical based toners as they strip your skin of your needed moisture content.
Next you need a moisturizer !. ALWAYS use a moisturizer dot a bit on each part of your face ( cheeks, nose, chin ) and let it soak for about 10 mins or so. Now find a moisturizer that works with your skin type as well.
Next is primer it's what adhere's your foundation for longevity over the course of a day. I prefer to use a bit of a higher end primer but Revlon carries one too and other drug store brands too.
Eye makeup wise you should get a decent eye primer too if your wearing eyeshadow or liner it also helps keep your makeup all day.
Back to the face , dot a bit of foundation on the same places on your face as listed above. Use a stippling brush usually found at walmart and stipple it on the face add more if needed. Then conceal any areas like dark circles or blemishes ect. Then take the brush and stipple some more to blend it all in and power lightly.
I hope this helps. Like others it's hard to say how much is too much. But if you need visual tips try
youtube.com and look up makeupgeektv or other makeup gurus. They can show you what you'd need to do and what may work for you.
Best of luck !
