03 November 2010

make-up 101 for me (tips from a pro)

Last weekend, I just attended a crash course on make-up for special occasions. So thankful to HR for this opportunity. Here are some of the lessons I've learned from the make-up artist to the celebrities, Jerome Chang:


Tools and Make-up
1. Brush - it's not in the brush, it's in the hands. So it's ok if your tools are not as expensive a Shu Uemura, the magic lies in the artist's skilful hands. And like any skill, applying make-up can be perfected with constant practice.


2. It is ok to scrimp on color but never on the base. Your eye make-up and blush-on can be from cheap local brands but it is always good to invest in good concealers, foundation and make-up base.


3. On concealers and foundation, it’s good to have several shades so you can mix.


4. It is ok to buy cheap products but make sure they are not expired.


5. Cream-based cosmetics are most economical. An applicator brush spreads these cream-based products evenly. Sponges are ok but they absorb your make-up products. Hence, only a percentage adheres to the skin since the majority is absorbed by the sponge. Instead, use a brush.


Applying make-up:
1. First, it’s always good to have a healthy flawless skin. If the canvas is smooth, less work for the make-up artist in hiding the blemishes.


2. Don’t overlook the eyebrows. Since they cap the face, eyebrows give the impression whether the bearer is happy or sad. That’s why they should be well-arched and trimmed, not too short and not too bushy. For eyebrows, the best color is yellowish brown (not too dark).

3. Decide on where to concentrate. If the lips are of bold, bright or shocking color, keep the rest of the face subtle. If you opt for a smoky eye, a nude lipstick is the best choice.


4. On deciding where to concentrate, it is best to know your subject’s assets. If the eyes are expressive, play with the eyes. If the lips are like Angelina Jolie’s, concentrate on it.

5. On cheeks, light pinks and peach create the best natural-looking blush. If your face is round, concentrate on the temples of your cheeks then apply a darker blush (or bronzer) towards the ears. If the face is oval, a horizontal stroke evens the face.

6. For plumper lips, outline the lips with a darker shade then fill the rest with the lighter lipstick. But make sure to blend evenly. Lip liners tend to stay longer than cream based lipsticks so better blend the two colors well.

Always, less is more. Unless this is make-up for theatre, TV or film, make-up for special occasions should only highlight the best assets, not re-create the subject into unrecognizable.

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