What are the best practices for applying stage makeup?

1 Choose the right products and colors

One of the first steps to applying stage makeup is to choose the right products and colors for your character and the lighting conditions. You will need products that are long-lasting, sweat-resistant, and highly pigmented, such as cream or grease paints, matte powders, and waterproof liners and mascaras. You will also need colors that match your skin tone, but are slightly darker and warmer, to avoid looking washed out or pale under the lights. You may also need to use different colors for different parts of your face, such as a lighter foundation for the center, a darker contour for the edges, and a brighter blush for the cheeks.

3 Apply the makeup in layers

The key to creating a realistic and dramatic stage makeup is to apply it in layers, starting from the lightest to the darkest, and from the largest to the smallest areas. You should start with a thin layer of foundation, using a sponge or a brush, and blend it well into your skin and neck. Then, you should apply a concealer to cover any blemishes, dark circles, or scars, and set it with a translucent powder. Next, you should apply a contour to create shadows and depth on your face, such as on your temples, cheekbones, jawline, and nose. You should also apply a highlighter to create light and contrast on your face, such as on your forehead, bridge of your nose, cheekbones, and chin. Then, you should apply a blush to add some color and warmth to your cheeks, and blend it well with the contour and highlighter.

4 Apply the eye makeup

The eye makeup is one of the most important and expressive parts of stage makeup, as it helps define your character and emotions. You should apply the eye makeup in steps, starting from the brows, to the lids, to the lashes. You should fill in your brows with a pencil or a powder that matches your hair color, and shape them according to your character. Then, you should apply an eyeshadow base to your lids, and choose an eyeshadow color that complements your eye color and character. You should apply the eyeshadow in three shades: a light shade for the inner corner and brow bone, a medium shade for the lid, and a dark shade for the crease and outer corner. You should blend the eyeshadow well to create a smooth transition. Next, you should apply an eyeliner to your upper and lower lash lines, and choose a color that matches your eyeshadow or contrasts it for more drama. You should also apply a mascara to your lashes, and curl them if needed. You may also use false lashes for more volume and length.

6 Blend the makeup well

The final and most important step to applying stage makeup is to blend the makeup well, to create a seamless and flawless look. You should use a clean brush or sponge to blend the edges of your makeup, and avoid any harsh lines or streaks. You should also use a translucent powder to set your makeup, and prevent it from smudging or fading. You should also check your makeup in different lighting conditions, such as natural, artificial, and stage light, and make any adjustments or corrections as needed.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?