1. Make foundation transfer-proof
Because much of the face is covered, foundation should be used sparingly, if at all. Instead, blend concealer under the eyes and on any uneven spots above the nose. If you use foundation, a light application on the exposed areas is all you need.
“Most women choose foundation for the look,” says Keanda Snagg, a makeup artist, meaning that they’re going for colour match and finish and are usually not as concerned about performance. Now is the time to consider a formula’s staying power, too.
Erin Parsons, another makeup artist, predicts that foundation formulas will evolve to focus on skin care. “Masks will shift how we think about foundation,” Parsons says. “When you take them off, your skin is irritated and red. I keep thinking the next generation of foundation will be soothing and protecting.”
2. Emphasise brows and lashes
The new basic face is filled-in brows and amplified lashes. “If there’s one thing we should learn now, it’s how to properly fill in your brows,” makeup artist Moore says. Eyebrow pencils give users more control of colour density (and most people go too dark on brows), so he prefers them to powders, which can be blotchy.
“People tend to fill in too much at the inner part of the brows,” he says. “Focus on the tail because that’s where most brows are sparse. Brush your brows up and outward and fill in only where you need more hair.”
3. Introduce colour with eyeliner
As our time in masks wears on, makeup artists expect we’ll transition to eye makeup that’s simple yet expressive. Eyeliner is the best tool for these times because it’s uncomplicated. A bright colour is interesting and fun without requiring the layering and dimension of eye shadow.
“My favourite is winged eyeliner in any bright colour - pink, blue, burgundy - anything that’s not black,” Snagg says.
An eyeliner newbie can start with a simple line along the lashes and, with practice, work up to a wing. Snagg’s winged liner technique: draw a triangle at the outer corner of the eye. Then, using gentle strokes, create a line that connects that triangle to the inner corner of your eye.
4. Embrace the freedom of masks
During his lockdown, makeup artist Barose made himself up in the style of celebrities representing different eras. “Because I’m being someone else, I feel more free to do things I’ve never done,” he says. “A mask covering your face is similar. It’s a superhero effect because you’re incognito.”
If you favour subdued or minimal makeup, this can be a time to explore, to try new textures and materials.
TWEET YOUR COMMENT