Makeup Basics-More than Imagined

Basic makeup principles are a whole lot more involved than just applying primer, foundation, blush, eye shadow, eyeliner, mascara, lip liner and a swipe of lipstick. Most any cosmetology related program today requires a range of coursework to qualify as a makeup artist. Budding amateur makeup enthusiasts will soon discover that there are a number of important steps in learning how to apply makeup professionally.

Amateur to Professional

Going from an amateur makeup enthusiast to an expert involves study through a cosmetology school that provides a listing of courses of study that meet varying state standards for Cosmetology or Esthetics licenses.

Makeup Application Coursework

Makeup application is usually grouped under the broad area of cosmetology and makeup application is one part of a cosmetologist’s skill set. There are courses that are a general part of a cosmetology curriculum as well as more specific classes that deal directly with the application of makeup in different capacities.

Core classes

Most every school requires

– Safety and sanitation procedures

– Business ethics and marketing

Makeup Specific Classes

Makekup application usually entails

– Color Theory – light/dark effects

– Product Selection – broad type of makeup products used and available today

– Application Techniques for:
• foundations, concealers, primers
• eye shadow, eyeliner and false lashes
• eyebrow shaping and coloring
• blush, rouge

Other Makeup Application Coursework

Depending on the cosmetology school, makeup application coursework can include:

– Challenges faced in professional makeup artistry
– Makeup artistry tools, brushes, air brushes and other equipment
– Skin type assessment for conditions and sensitivities
– Facial Structure, along with face shapes, eye and hair color
– Facial contouring and highlighting
– Makeup blending techniques and the tools necessary for use
– Makeup corrective techniques for skin irregularities
– Makeup application for special events – parties, weddings, reunions and other events
– Makeup application for television, photography and video lighting
– Makeup application for theater and stage
– Makeup for special effects and film
– Makeup design for varying looks – vintage, modern, runway and unconventional
– Makeup design for natural, day and evening looks
– Makeup design and application for ethnic and mature looks
– Makeup application for men

Knowing how to apply makeup effectively is an art. Even if you are able to make up your your own face, there is a learning curve that has to be hurdled to pass on your skills to others. With the right training, makeup application offers numerous possibilities to amateur makeup artists who want to use their creative abilities to enrich their own lives and the lives of others. It’s an art worth pursuing.