Makeup Techniques and Cosmetology
Domain 7 tests makeup application, colour matching and hygiene. Expect face-shape correction, undertone and product-texture questions.
Core rules
- Prep skin: cleanse, moisturise, prime; use sunscreen if the look is for daylight.
- Match foundation to the jawline in natural light; check oxidisation after a few minutes. Undertone may be warm, cool or neutral.
- Concealer corrects; foundation evens. Set with powder only where needed.
- Colour theory: opposite colours neutralise (green for redness, peach for blue-grey shadows). Use sparingly.
- Face shapes: contour to recede, highlight to bring forward. Round face: shade temples and jaw, blush upward. Long face: shade forehead and chin. Square: soften corners.
- Eyes: prime, use transition shade, build colour, line, curl lashes, mascara. Keep liner symmetrical.
- Lips: exfoliate, balm, liner optional, lipstick, blot.
- Hygiene: sharpen pencils, sanitise palettes, use disposable wands, never share mascara, patch test and check allergies.
Worked example
A client with a round face and warm undertone wants a natural day look. Reasoning: choose a yellow-based foundation matched at the jaw, light concealer under eyes, soft peach blush swept upward, light contour at temples and jaw, neutral shadow, brown liner, mascara, and a warm nude lip. Avoid heavy contour and cool pink foundation, which will look ashy.
Traps that cost marks
- Testing foundation on the hand.
- Over-contouring in daylight.
- Using a tester mascara on a client.
- Ignoring a known allergy to fragrance or nickel.