If your skin is dry or flaky, consider gently exfoliating after you cleanse or use an exfoliating cleanser to slough away rough patches.
If you have warm or reddish undertones, look for a foundation with a yellow or golden finish. If your character is supposed to be sick or tired, go with a foundation that has cool undertones. Consider applying primer before foundation. It’s not required, but it can help makeup last longer, especially under the hot stage lights.
If you don’t have dark circles or blemishes, you don’t need to use concealer.
Mattifying is important, since you don’t want your face to look shiny under the stage lights.
You don’t have to do this for basic stage makeup, it can give your face a more chiseled appearance from a distance. [8] X Research source If you don’t have bronzer on hand, try using a brown eyeshadow. [9] X Research source
Use a blush color that complements your skin tone. Peachy blushes tend to look good on warm undertones, and pinks and roses complement cool undertones.
If you’re blond, use a light or medium brown pencil or brow powder to fill in your brows to ensure they show up from a distance. To further define your eyebrows, you can apply a white eyeliner or cream directly beneath each eyebrow, which will provide a sharp contrast. Be sure to blend the makeup well so that you don’t have a harsh white line. [12] X Research source
If you need to create a wide-eyed look, skip the darker colors and just use the lightest eyeshadow all over your lids. To make your eyes look smaller, apply only the darkest color from your eyelashes to your crease. You don’t have to use eyeshadow primer before applying eyeshadow, but it can help your eyeshadow last longer.
Blues and greens are good choices for dramatic or colorful characters. For a more sinister vibe, try a deep berry color.
Waterproof formulas will hold up the best on stage. For dramatic roles, use thick black eyeliner to accentuate your eyes. Use a liquid liner on your upper lash line if you want more definition.
Use a waterproof formula to prevent your mascara from running on stage. You can also apply false eyelashes if you want your eyes to really pop. [15] X Research source Applying mascara to the lower lashes can make eyes look smaller, so it’s usually best to skip it.
Pick the shade that makes the most sense for your specific character. [17] X Research source
Cream formulas work well for dry lips. Liquid matte formulas have great staying power, but can be drying. Choose the lipstick that works best for you![19] X Expert Source Katya GudaevaProfessional Makeup Artist Expert Interview. 11 April 2019.
If you need to, you can also powder your face in between scenes to prolong your stage makeup.
Makeup remover wipes work well if you’re on the go. [22] X Research source Sleeping in your makeup can wreak havoc on your skin and cause serious breakouts. [23] X Expert Source Katya GudaevaProfessional Makeup Artist Expert Interview. 11 April 2019.
If you’re prone to acne, consider using an over-the-counter benzoyl peroxide cleanser.
