Makeup is one of the surest ways to get a confidence boost when you need it most, but its application is also one of the most difficult to master. A lot of us would love to look flawless every day, but because of a lack of time or desire to experiment, most of us rely on the same old makeup tricks.

Jeffrey Tasker, the regional training manager for makeup brand Laura Mercier, was in Manila recently to launch the Laura Mercier Holiday 2011 collection. Two of the things we picked up from Jeffrey are that makeup doesn't have to be so intimidating and that a woman doesn't have to dive headfirst into things she's not comfortable with. "Baby steps," Jeffrey deems it. When put that way, makeup certainly seems less daunting.

In this FN exclusive, Jeffrey answers our questions on makeup issues commonly experienced by Filipinas. Browse through the gallery to score a tip (or seven!) from him.

Laura Mercier is available at Rustan's Makati, Rustan's Alabang Town Center, Rustan's Shangri-la, Rustan's Robinsons Place, Rustan's Gateway, and Rustan's Ayala Center Cebu.

(Flashbox and product photos courtesy of Rustan's.)

For more makeup tips and tricks, check out these galleries:

• The Eyes Have It: 5 Steps to Perky Peepers
• Kissable Bliss: 5 Steps to a Pretty Pout + 75 Lip Balms, Liners, and Glosses
• Beauty Confidential: 11 Tips and Tricks from Max Factor Chief Makeup Artist Bobby Carlos