Makeup Artistry
Colour theory and skin matching
Makeup artistry depends on undertone (warm, cool, neutral) and depth. Match foundation on the jawline in natural light, not on the hand. Correctors neutralise colour: green reduces redness, peach/orange corrects blue undertones, and yellow brightens dullness. Choose products for the client’s skin type; oil-free formulas suit oily skin, cream formulas suit dry skin.
Sanitation and client safety
Never double-dip into creams; use a spatula and disposable wands. Sharpen pencils before use, and do not share mascara or lip products. Check for conjunctivitis, styes, cold sores, or broken skin and postpone eye or lip makeup. Patch-test adhesives and lash glues. Remove makeup with appropriate cleanser and disposable pads.
Worked example
A client with a warm, olive undertone wants a natural bridal look. Reasoning: select a yellow-based foundation matched at the jawline; use peach corrector only where needed; avoid cool pink blush that can look ashy; set with translucent powder and use waterproof mascara for tears. Sanitise brushes before and after, and use disposable wands for creams.
Traps that cost marks
- Testing foundation on the hand instead of the jawline.
- Double-dipping into cream products.
- Using shared mascara wands or lip testers.
- Ignoring active eye infection or cold sore.