Category Archives: makeup tips

My Makeup Process of Creating the Right Look

Posted on by under bridal makeup, Instagram, makeup, makeup artistry, makeup techniques, makeup tips

I just recently posted this information on my Instagram but thought this was a great post for aspiring makeup artists, clients, and other artists to read.  I wanted to share a more in-depth way I go about creating the right look for my clients and brides.  My goal is to fully understand the desired look and then go through the design process through my makeup artistry to get to the final look at the end.

Fatima 2

Bridal look I created for Fatima

– I first ask if there are any photos of makeup styles to look at prior to the makeup application to get a general idea of the look that I am asked to create. If there are no photos or ideas, I will proceed with asking some thorough questions to ensure I understand makeup preferences and the overall vision.

– I like to also learn in advance how much makeup one wears on a regular basis (if any) so I can gauge the comfort level of how much makeup to apply. For more natural and clean looks, I will opt for a neutral color palette and make sure there’s a smooth blend with the application. I never want someone to feel they are wearing too much makeup as often times, less is more.

– I will ask very specific questions regarding: Placement (ex: Do you wear top and bottom liner normally?), Color preferences (ex: Do you feel more comfortable in warmer tones such as golds for the eye shadows?), and Intensity (ex: Do you like a more dramatic look or more natural?)

– In situations people are meeting me for the first time and I’m designing a look in advance for an event, I will show as I go. Meaning I will show with a mirror the steps of the makeup application as I am applying the makeup to make sure we are both on the same page.  As I mentioned earlier, I really take the time to listen and understand so I can translate this information into the final look at the end.

– Once I’m completely done with the makeup application, I will fully examine everything from every angle. Then I will tweak anything if needed and make any changes. I essentially edit (or fine tune as I like to call it) and really blend everything more thoroughly. I’ll then record everything I used along with the exact placement so I can replicate the look in the future for the day of the event.

This pretty much explains my creative process behind how I go about makeup artistry from client to client.  Aside from having the right skills, I think it is a necessity to truly get to know your client and really understand what they are looking for from the very beginning.

Duo Eyelash Adhesive – Black vs. Clear Glue -Does it Make a Difference?

Posted on by under eye makeup, false eyelashes, makeup, makeup artistry, makeup techniques, makeup tips

Eyelash glueWhen it comes to applying false eyelashes, Duo Eyelash Adhesive is hands down the eyelash glue of choice by professional makeup artists.  There are a few others that exist but there is nothing that can compare to this brand.

Now this is where things get a little more tricky.  Duo offers a clear glue (it goes on white and dries clear) or a black glue.  So which is best?

The reason behind providing the choice of a black glue is that when it dries, it gives the appearance of wearing black eyeliner.  This saves a step from applying actual eyeliner if it already looks like you are wearing it.  As a concept, I think this is brilliant!

However, the glue can sometimes be a little messy and smudge or move around during the application.  This is where things can get sticky (figuratively) because fixing this is not easy.  It would look like smudged black eyeliner and once it dries, it is fully set.

This is why I always prefer the clear Duo Eyelash Adhesive.  Since it dries clear, it doesn’t show up.  Meaning if the glue smudges during the application, it does not matter as everything is hidden.  

The best technique when applying false eyelashes is to first apply all your eye shadow followed by lining the eyes on top (if you want to skip eyeliner altogether, this is an option too although I always think false lashes should be paired up with a little eyeliner).  Then you can go ahead and apply the false eyelashes over top the eyeliner as close to the lash line as possible.  I sometimes will also take it a step further and go over the top liner again once the glue is dried to make sure the eyeliner is extra smooth and defined.  I also like to do this as it conceals even more the fact that I applied a set of false eyelashes.

Given the choice, I will always recommend the clear Duo Eyelash Adhesive!