Make-up application and cosmetic camouflage
Make-up application and cosmetic camouflage
This domain tests colour theory, skin preparation, product texture, face shapes and the safe, respectful use of camouflage for scarring, pigmentation and vascular conditions.
Core rules
- Identify undertone as warm, cool or neutral and match foundation in natural light along the jawline, not the hand.
- Colour correction uses complementary colours: green neutralises redness, peach or orange neutralises blue bruising, yellow neutralises purple and lilac brightens sallow tones.
- Prepare skin with cleanser, moisturiser and primer; use thin layers and blend edges. Set with powder where appropriate.
- Camouflage products are highly pigmented and water-resistant; apply sparingly, stipple rather than rub, and set to improve durability.
- Hygiene: wash hands, sanitise tools, use disposable applicators, never share mascara or lip products, and sharpen pencils.
- Face shapes and corrective techniques guide contour, highlight and blush placement; keep the client's natural features in mind.
- Remove all make-up before bed and patch test products for sensitive clients.
Worked example
A client wants to conceal a red birthmark on the cheek. The reasoning is to apply a green corrector only on the red area, then a high-coverage camouflage foundation matched to the surrounding skin, stippled and set. A heavy layer all over would look flat and draw attention.
Traps
Matching foundation to the hand; using green all over the face; sharing mascara; applying camouflage thickly in one coat; ignoring skin undertone.