Putting the fate of your face-beat in the hands of a makeup artist can be equal parts exciting and FRIGHTENING. Will they overdo it? Will my skin look caked? Are they going to cover up that pimple completely?
Oh, let me count the ways that this could go completely south.
I’ve been getting my makeup done more frequently lately, and with each experience I’m learning how to instruct my artist in a way that yields the perfect result nearly every time. So, that’s what I’m going to be sharing with you today.
Hopefully these tips help ensure your next professional makeup experience goes better than ever.
How to Ensure Your Makeup Artist Gets it Right
1. Choose the Right Artist – this one seems obvious, but if you’re able to do some research, put in a little extra effort to find at artist or salon that does makeup you like. Instagram is the perfect place to stalk makeup artists. If I’m booking my own makeup, I always select from a variety of artists I have noted from seeing on Instagram.
2. Bring a Reference Photo – whether its a photo of yourself from a previous look, a beauty blogger on Pinterest, or a model on Instagram, bring your makeup artist a photo of the makeup look you’re going for. Zoom in on the face, note the things you like about the photo. Do you like the way the skin is done? the brows? the tight-line over the eyes? Be specific! Also, be realistic with your image. I choose photos of women who have similar eye, brow or face shapes as me. I do this because I know there are limitations on what looks good on my eyes ( they’re small & elongated ) and I keep that in mind!
3. Be Specific ( as f*ck ) About What You Want – Speak Up!! This one can be difficult, but be stern about what you want. Example: I like dewey skin ( & therefor prefer the look of a BB cream or moisturizing foundation ), a healthy glow, my brows brushed up, & an over-line on the lips. When it comes to eyes, I don’t like anything too heavy. If I do eyeshadow, I want a super blown-out shadow look. If I do a dramatic liner, I like something thin that elongates my eye shape for the cat-eye appeal. I prefer individual lashes on the outer half of my eye, rather than a strip lash. Do you SEE how specific?? Tell your artist EVERYTHING they need to know to help achieve what you want.
4. Correct, Don’t Micromanage – obviously, your face will look a bit wack going through the process of having your makeup done, so be patient. Everyone looks weird in between the foundation and blush/bronzer stage, for example ( I’m a literal ghost with just foundation on LOL ). If you’re nearing the end, at the end, or you see them do something just COMPLETELY wrong, say something! If the liner is looking too thick, ask if they can thin it out. If your skin is looking caked, ask if they can blend it out. If you don’t like your brows, ask for a re-do! Reference the photo you brought if necessary.
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Follow as many of these steps as you can before your next appointment, and I think you’ll be blown away by the results! Speaking up & being specific can be intimidating, but just like in the success of basically anything else in life: communication is KEY!
Oh, and if you’re an LA girl, I have to add that my favorite independent makeup artist in town is Alexis Oakley ( seriously…… I’ve never loved anyones’ work more ).
If I’m not lucky enough to book Alexis, or I just need something quick & easy, I go to Blushington in West Hollywood. I’ve so far only had good experiences there, the product the artists use is the best, & they generally have openings ( & it’s affordable! ).
Right now, I have the Carte Blush membership to Blushington, which means I can go in an unlimited amount per month for a flat rate. This is worth it if you like having your makeup done flawlessly at all times ( I like sitting there, getting work done, while someone makes me pretty ).
Send this anyone & everyone you know who just NEEDS this type of makeup advice. Help another gal ( or guy ) out, friends.
Talk soon, xx
P