As a professional artist with over 20 years experience, I am always questioned on several aspects of makeup artistry by everyday women who are looking to master the art of makeup at home, as well as upcoming makeup enthusiasts pursuing a professional career. 

I felt compelled to have a discussion on the topic when I started receiving invitations to groups hosted by upcoming makeup artists. I have an eye for the art and so I’m usually able to spot the mishap at first glance.

Let us discuss what makeup really is. The idea behind makeup is to enhance a woman’s feature with the use of beauty products.

A good skin care routine should be an integral part of woman’s daily routine. Cleanse, tone and moisturize every, day twice a day, exfoliate regularly; how often will depend on your skin type and your product of choice.

Products are designed with busy women in mind, scrubs and cleaners are 2 in1. Skin should be treated with love and special care and note, there are products available for all skin types and their needs.

As a makeup artist, you need to be aware of all the different skin types and what products you need to use to get the best results for your clients. Sometimes it would be necessary to use a primer along with your moisturizer, before foundation is applied so that you achieve a long-lasting finish.

If you understand products and the various ways they can be used, then you should be able to avoid some of the mistakes that are commonly made.

Let us start by looking at the three main products and why they are used.

1) FOUNDATION: – Foundations are used to create the illusion of a flawless complexion, even out the skin tone and disguise minor blemishes. It can also be used for protection against environmental elements. They are available in different textures and with ingredients that will cater to your skin’s desire. A lot of manufactures are creating foundations that has skincare benefits. The coverage ranges from light, medium or heavy coverage, depending on what you prefer.

When selecting a foundation, the color should never be compromised. There are a few elements that should be taken into consideration when shopping for a foundation, not just your shade which usually fall into the category of very fair, mediums to dark and the shades in between. Another element is your undertones, neutrals, cool, or warms.

The biggest challenge for most women is where to test for your ideal color. The back of your hands is a no-no, more often than not, the back of the hand is much lighter or darker than the face. These are the 3 areas I incorporate into the process of foundation-matching; the face, the neck and the decolletage. Opt for 3 colors, add along the jawline and go with the one that blends in with the most natural finish.

 2) CONCEALER: - A concealer is used to cover dark circles, brighten, and disguise blemishes. They are also made in different textures that are usually heavily pigmented, thus differentiating from the foundation.

A concealer should never be used over the entire face. Outside of disguising minor blemishes, a concealer can also be used as a highlighter. If you want to cover and or disguise blemishes then concealer should blend with the skin tone. If used as a highlighter then it is okay to use one that is a shade or two lighter than your skin.

3) POWDER: - Powder is used to set the foundation and matte the skin. The best type of powder to use in this instant is a translucent powder. Its texture is sheer and is usually not heavily pigmented.

A press powder is recommended for touch ups. The powder used to set the foundation should never change the color of the foundation so choose wisely. Also note, there are so many options of powders available, sheer, radiant, satin, choices, choices… it all depends on the outcome you desire. 

Now that the canvas - your face, is ready and looking flawless and natural, it’s time for further enhancement with your choice of eye shadows, eyeliner, brow pencil, lip liner, lip gloss, lip stick, bronzer, blush and eyelash extensions.

Let’s take a quick look at eye shadows, bronzers and blushes. It is important to note that these are made in different textures that give you different finishes from matte to metallic, satin to frosty.

It is important to comprehend the results that will be acquired from their uses. When using eye shadows, mastering the art of color placement is important. The use of color and where it is placed can create illusions of smaller, bigger or sexy eyes.

Droopy eyelids, deep set, and wide set eyes can be corrected. Here is where the artist should pay more attention to detail. Color should be used to enhance the eyes.

Watch out for shadows that finish chalky, these do not look natural; furthermore, they belong on a stage not on the eyes of a gorgeous woman walking the streets.

Pay attention to blending techniques. Color coordination is also important and should not be taken for granted. Learn the difference between warm colors and cool colors. Using colors that complement each other gives the best result.

 Armed with a pencil, you can change the shape of any feature on the face. That is the purpose for your liners, to enhance and or change the shape of the chosen feature, eye brows, eyes or lips.

Now that you have a little more insight, I trust that you will enjoy observing and exploring how makeup will enhance your features.

I look forward to your feedback and addressing any of your further concerns