Makeup Application and Lash and Brow Services
Makeup Application and Lash and Brow Services tests color theory, face-shape correction, foundation matching, brow design, and the extra sanitation and patch testing that eye-area services demand.
Color theory in practice
Complementary colors cancel each other: green concealer neutralizes redness, peach or orange cancels blue-purple bruising and dark circles, yellow cancels purple, lavender brightens sallow yellow tones. Undertones run warm (yellow, peach), cool (pink, blue) or neutral; match foundation to the jawline in natural light.
Face shapes
Oval is the reference shape. Round: contour the sides and add height. Long: shade the forehead and chin. Square: soften the jaw corners. Heart: shade the upper forehead and slightly widen the lower face. Highlight brings features forward; contour recedes them.
Sanitation in the makeup kit
Scoop with a spatula, never fingers into jars; use disposable wands and applicators; sharpen pencils; wipe palettes and compacts with alcohol; never double-dip mascara; discard liquids per the PAO symbol; never use a client's personal products on anyone else.
Lash and brow services
Brow design uses three points: start at the inner corner aligned with the side of the nose, arch above the outer edge of the iris, tail at the outer corner. Tints and lash-lift or extension adhesives require a patch test 24–48 hours ahead and a warning about allergy risk with cyanoacrylate. Contraindications for eye services include conjunctivitis, styes, blepharitis, recent eye surgery, lash-loss conditions and known adhesive allergy. Keep eyes closed and check for burning throughout.
Worked example
A first-time brow tint client arrives. Reasoning: patch test behind the ear or inner elbow with the same formula 24–48 hours before, confirm no reaction, then proceed and document the test and timing.
Traps that cost marks
- Matching foundation to the wrist instead of the jawline.
- Pairing green corrector with purple bruising.
- Tinting or lashing without a patch test.
- Reusing a mascara wand.