- Primer is key. Putting on primer gives you a smooth base for the rest of your makeup. It also helps your look last longer and prevents creasing, smudging, or fading. Choose a primer that suits your skin type and needs, such as hydrating, mattifying, or pore-minimizing.
- Go darker and warmer. Stage lights are notorious for making actors look washed-out. The same can happen in dimly lit venues or when taking photos with flash. Wearing a darker, warmer foundation two shades off from your natural skin color can prevent this from happening. You can also use bronzer and blush to add some warmth and dimension to your face.
- Choose your focus. When it comes to dramatic makeup, balance is everything. You don’t want to overwhelm your face with too many colors or products. Pick one feature to be the focus of your look, such as your eyes or lips, and keep the rest more neutral. For example, if you do a bold eye look, choose a nude lip color that doesn’t wash out your complexion. If you opt for a bright lip color, keep your eye makeup simple and subtle.
- Color correct if needed. If you have any discoloration or blemishes on your skin, you may want to use a color corrector before applying concealer. Color correctors are designed to neutralize unwanted tones on your skin, such as redness, dark circles, or hyperpigmentation. For example, green cancels out red, peach cancels out blue, and yellow cancels out purple. Apply a thin layer of color corrector on the affected areas and blend well before applying concealer.
- Use powder strategically. Powder can help set your makeup and reduce shine, but it can also make your skin look dry or cakey if used too much. To avoid this, use powder sparingly and only on the areas where you need it, such as your T-zone, under eyes, or around the nose. You can also use a setting spray to lock in your makeup and add some hydration and glow to your skin.
- Go for a subtle contour. Contouring can help define your facial features and create the illusion of a slimmer face. However, you don’t want to go overboard with it and end up looking unnatural or muddy. To achieve a subtle contour, use a matte bronzer or contour powder that is one or two shades darker than your skin tone⁶. Apply it along the hollows of your cheeks, the sides of your nose, the temples, and the jawline. Blend well with a fluffy brush or a sponge for a seamless finish.
- Add color with blush. Blush can add some life and color to your face, as well as complement your dramatic makeup look. Choose a blush shade that matches your skin tone and undertone, as well as the mood of your look. For example, if you have a cool undertone and want to create a romantic look, you can go for a pink blush. If you have a warm undertone and want to create a sultry look, you can opt for a coral blush. Apply blush on the apples of your cheeks and blend upwards towards your temples.
- Experiment with different eye makeup looks. The eyes are the windows to the soul, and they can also be the center of attention when it comes to dramatic makeup. There are endless possibilities when it comes to eye makeup looks, from smoky eyes to glitter eyes to graphic liner. You can play with different colors, textures, shapes, and techniques to create an eye-catching look that suits your personality and style. Don’t be afraid to try something new and have fun with it!
- Don’t forget the brows. Your eyebrows frame your face and can make a big difference in how your makeup looks. To achieve well-groomed and defined brows, you can use a brow pencil, powder, gel, or pomade. Choose a brow product that matches your natural hair color and fill in any sparse areas with light strokes. You can also use a spoolie brush to comb through your brows and blend the product for a more natural look. To finish off, you can apply some brow gel or clear mascara to set your brows in place.
- Finish with mascara and lipstick. Mascara and lipstick are the final touches that can complete your dramatic makeup look. Mascara can help open up your eyes and make them look bigger and brighter. Choose a mascara that adds volume, length, and curl to your lashes, and apply two or three coats for maximum impact. You can also use an eyelash curler before applying mascara for extra lift. Lipstick can help tie your look together and add some contrast and color to your face. Choose a lipstick shade that flatters your skin tone and matches your eye makeup. You can also use a lip liner to outline and fill in your lips for a more defined and long-lasting look.
These are some of the tips and tricks that can help you create a dramatic makeup look that will make you stand out and feel confident. Remember to have fun with it and express yourself!
Source:
(1) 8 Dramatic Eye Makeup Looks for Bold Eyes – L’Oréal Paris. https://www.lorealparisusa.com/beauty-magazine/makeup/eye-makeup/dramatic-bold-eyes.
(2) The Biggest Mistake You’re Making With Dramatic Makeup. https://www.thelist.com/1171860/the-biggest-mistake-youre-making-with-dramatic-makeup/.
(3) How to Do Your Makeup for Evening and Formal Events – Byrdie. https://www.byrdie.com/makeup-tips-for-evening-formal-and-nighttime-events-346677.
(4) How to Do Stage Makeup: Tips and Tricks | Backstage. https://www.backstage.com/magazine/article/how-to-do-stage-makeup-76218/.
(5) Dramatic Makeup Transformations: 31 Before and After Looks. https://sheideas.com/makeup-transformations/.
(6) 5-Second Makeup Tips That Make a Huge Difference – Byrdie. https://www.byrdie.com/quick-and-easy-makeup-tips.