When it comes to versatile, multi-use products, it's hard to beat loose pigments. They come in just about any color you can think of. You can use them to create a matte look or to add a little shimmer or sparkle to your look. You can use them to create an everyday look or add drama for a night on the town. Alone or used with a mixing medium, most colors can be applied anywhere on the face or body – eyes, lips, cheeks, shoulders and even nails. They also mix well with other makeup to create beautiful effects.

Because loose pigments are powders, there are a few things you need to know about applying them. Like anything else, practice makes perfect.

Using loose pigments on the eye area
Pigments can be used instead of pressed eye shadows or combined with them. One caveat, though; loose pigments tend to fall. Because some of the product will likely end up on the skin under the eye area, it's best to apply foundation and concealer after loose pigments. You're probably going to have to do a little clean up. You probably don't want to wipe off foundation and concealer and then reapply them. It's just a waste of time and products.

When buying loose pigments, you may find labels that warn against using some products or colors in the eye area or on the lips. Pigments containing glitter can cause injury when they get into eyes. Be sure to check the label or product insert for any such warnings.

Application tips
It's a great idea to use an eyeshadow base before applying pigments to the eyelids. Try Urban Decay's Primer Potion. It will help the pigments last longer and they won't settle in creases or wrinkles. Once the shadow base is applied, dip a clean brush or sponge applicator directly into the loose pigments, but be sure to load a minimal amount. Gently tap the brush to remove excess product.

When applying loose pigments, it's important not to use a back-and-forth or sweeping motion. That can cause more fallout. Instead pat pigments into place. Then blend them out leaving no harsh edges. Using a dampened sponge applicator or brush helps to prevent fallout. You can also achieve more intense looks. Just remember to blend with a clean, dry brush after applying pigments.

Mixing mediums and blending products
If you're looking to avoid fallout altogether, you'll need a mixing medium or blending product. Mixing mediums also give loose pigments the ultimate versatility. Combine colors and pigments to create lip color, eyeliner, eyeshadow, or anything else you can imagine. MAC, Make-Up Forever and Naked Cosmetics all offer mediums and blending products. You can even make your own nail polish colors.

Loose pigments offer a lot of versatility and with some experimentation, you can create just about any look you can imagine. It just takes a little creativity and practice.