• The best base for makeup is clean skin, Young says. Moisturizer or cold cream won't help makeup adhere, she says.

• Use your fingers rather than a makeup sponge to apply makeup, suggests Emilie Fromm, a professional makeup artist who lives in West Chester Township. The heat your fingers give off will keep makeup warm and pliable.

• If you're going for the skeleton look, use white face makeup and hollow out your features using black, Fromm says. For a zombie effect, use makeup that's five shades lighter than your skin tone, and mix blue makeup with light foundation for around your eyes and mouth. Paint veins on with dark blue and maroon makeup.

• Want great-looking fake blood that won't hurt your wallet? Fromm suggests combining red food coloring and corn syrup.

• Consider visiting a professional. Many costume shops, including Cincinnati Costume Co., (513) 541-6803, and the Costume Gallery (859) 655-9419, have makeup artists on staff.

• Another option is airbrushed makeup. At Anything Airbrushed in Cheviot, your face - or your entire body - can be covered in lightweight, long-lasting makeup in five to 10 minutes. The average cost is $5-$20, says owner Michael Dougherty. Just make an appointment; Dougherty says they'll be packed Halloween weekend. (513) 662-5400.

Lauren Bishop