Time and time again, as a former professional NYC dancer, I witnessed attractive young girls poorly put on tons of makeup before performances. In my 10 years of dancing I saw how, well, ugly, bad backstage makeup skills can get! Makeup can help create the best possible version of ourselves. As a makeup artist I learned how to emphasize our best aspects with makeup.

This is my list of Top 10 Performance Makeup Mistakes in no particular order.

1) MISTAKE: Lack of Eyebrows! WHY? When there are no eyebrows we lose the emotional expression of the face.

FIX IT: In order to create a more natural look then an eyebrow pencil use a pressed mineral eye shadow powder. Use a color that either matches or is slightly darker than your own hair color. To accentuate and frame the eyes use an angled eyeliner makeup brush to fill in the natural shape of the eyebrows.

2) MISTAKE: On the inside of the lower lash line using a black pencil eyeliner. WHY? This is a great makeup method for fashion shows, print ads, TV, and in person but not for performances on stage. During a stage performance it makes eyes look smaller.

FIX IT: A WHITE Highlighter Pencil on the outside corner of the eyes and on the inside lower lash line will make eyes look bigger and brighter.

3) MISTAKE: Applying black liner under the eye and in to the far inner corner of the eye. WHY? It gives the eye a very round appearance, you want more of an almond shape. It can sometimes give the look of being “cross-eyed” to the dancer.

FIX IT: In order to achieve the more desirable shape use a darker brown eye shadow with an eyeliner brush as a liner under the eye. Start under the pupil and brush out following the natural curve of the eye.

Do NOT join the upper lash liner and the lower lash liner. Not connecting these lines will give you the illusion that the whites of the eyes are very large.

4) MISTAKE: The darkest eye shadow contour color that is too close to the nose and too high on the crease of the eye (up to the eyebrows). WHY? It takes all of the emotion out of the eyes. It gives the look of big black holes. For the same reason the “Smokey-eyed look” does NOT work on stage performances.

FIX IT: Make sure the dark contour color stops before it nears the eyebrows. Apply the shadow with an eye shadow brush that is small and angled. When adding darker contour color to crease area of the eye focus on the outer half of the eye and do not bring the dark color too far in towards the nose.

5) MISTAKE: No foundation applied for stage performances. WHY? Wearing makeup without a foundation won’t stand up when you get sweaty. It will look blotchy and not touch-up well.

FIX IT: Creating a clean, matte surface for the makeup requires foundation. When choosing a foundation use a lightweight, mineral oil free/non-comedogenic, water resistant foundation. This will keep makeup looking smooth and clean all day long!

6) MISTAKE: Wearing false lashes that are either too big or too thick. WHY? Since stage lighting come down from the top, large lashes form a shadow under the eyes. This can make your eyes look closed, sleepy, or heavy.

FIX IT: If the lashes are a demi/half lash then they will not need to trimmed to fit the eye otherwise trim them to fit. Always trim from the outside edge. False lashes that are longer on the outer edge and get shorter as they go towards the inner eye are the best choice. Avoid oversized lashes and choose ones that concentrate on the outer third of the eye.

7) MISTAKE: Poor makeup color choices used for stage makeup. WHY? Just because we see a makeup color on TV, does not mean that it will work for a stage performance. On TV when makeup is done, colors can match outfits, be more understated and more “fashionable” in style. Our main purpose on stage is to make sure the facial expression and features can be seen and the dancer looks striking under severe stage lighting.

FIX IT: Wear neutral tones to bring out the innate beauty in the dancer’s face. Also there are neutral rose-toned lipsticks that look lovely. Bright red isn’t better! If bright red glaring lipstick has the audience is distracted from the performance then it is not serving its purpose.

8) MISTAKE: A sharp line for blush or too much blush. WHY? Too much blush or a sharp line can make performers look harsh or old.

FIX IT: Neutral rose toned or pink/peach toned colors. The other benefit is these colors will work on all skin tones – lightest to darkest. To create a soft line place your brush at the hair line and brush forward, blend upward around the apples of the cheeks. It is important to not allow blush to dip below the lip line.

9) MISTAKE: Using too much glitter. WHY? When you use glitter is on every part of your face, body, and costume it is very distracting to the audience and judges.

FIX IT: Pick one part that you will use glitter on. Use glitter in your hair, or use a shimmering white to highlight your cheekbones, or try a red glitter lip. The important part is to pick ONE part of the body not every part for your “glitter-fitti!

10) MISTAKE: Needing more makeup. WHY? Because of the strength of stage lights and the distance from the performer to the audience, the facial features tend to lose their dimension. Facial features “flatten” out when you don’t have enough makeup on.

FIX IT: Apply makeup so that it is dark enough to see your features without strain from the 8th-10th row. Stage lighting is makes it necessary to wear makeup if you a natural look on stage. Again, because you saw the look on a dancer on TV, does not mean it will work on the stage.

Nobody likes pain, but who said it has to hurt? This is the 21st Century. Might scientists have created something that numbs so well that pain is not felt? The answer is a profound “YES”. There are many topical anesthetics available for the technician to numb the area prior to permanent makeup. The topical cream is applied before the permanent makeup procedure; the timer is set for 15-20 minutes and bingo – numb! Topical anesthetics usually contain any combination of the following: Lidocaine, Tetracaine, Benzocaine or Epinephrine, in an emollient base. Since the effects of pain can include swelling, bleeding and delayed healing, it’s important to both technician and client to alleviate pain. The safest topicals have a pH balance close to human tears which is 7.5. These products numb so well, that the procedure is very tolerable and that’s why so many people are having this done!

Eyebrows

As time goes by, many women begin to lose their eyebrows. Or, if they tweezed or shaved them in the ’80’s often-times they didn’t grow back. With permanent makeup, beautiful brows can be yours without the fuss of pencils that wear off or smear. The “After” photo shown on Nancy’s website, noted in the bottom paragraph of this article, shows how color can be placed behind the brow hairs giving a more sophisticated, polished, finished look.

I’m Concerned About the Word “Permanent

o What if I don’t like the color? Oh No!

o What if the technician makes a mistake? Oops!

o What if I just don’t like it? Ugh!

Hold your horses – Let me alleviate your fears! Permanent makeup needs to be applied 2 or 3 times (4 weeks apart) to be truly permanent. It’s true. The first time you have permanent makeup applied, it will be a little darker than you imagined, but much of it will flake off by the time it has healed (2-4 wks). This means that you need to come back to have additional color applied.

Think of it as painting a house or car. They require several coats of paint, right? Permanent makeup acts the same way. Typically, it needs to be layered on to achieve the desired outcome. Upon completion of a procedure, the color will be brighter and darker than the final outcome. During the 7-14 days of healing, small amounts of pigment will flake off during healing – think of it as the body doing its job by expelling the pigment during the healing period. This means if the color is not right, the technician can modify it on the touchup visits. If the technician places pigment in a place it shouldn’t be, it probably will flake off during the healing period or can be adjusted or removed at the next appt.

What if you don’t like it? Only a very small percentage of people end up not liking it. Why? Because they had unrealistic expectations of the procedure to begin with. They likely didn’t do their research to know what to expect. Alleviate your concerns: Talk to your technician and ask questions!

Permanent Makeup Is Ingenuity at its Best

Since time began, humans have been decorating their bodies with color . Permanent makeup is not new nor is it a trend destined to go out of style next season. It’s here to stay because it’s so timeless. It’s popular because it is ingenuity at its best! If you’re applying makeup everyday anyway, why not save yourself some time and money and just have it done permanently? We all know makeup applied sparingly makes a woman more attractive if not downright beautiful. What you may not realize is that many woman have already had their makeup applied permanently.

Perfect brows, lips & eyeliner can be yours with Permanent makeup – done so subtly, naturally, and beautifully only YOU know you have it. Think of the time savings! Do you reach for that lipstick after a meal because of embarrassing chalky, pasty, white lips? Imagine now your lips are permanently colored – a natural baby pink color (or your choice) that you’ve wanted for aeons. If your brows are sparse, or your lips uneven, you are probably a candidate for permanent makeup. Since it is applied so subtly, you don’t have to worry that it will be too dark, or unnatural. In summary, permanent makeup is what woman are having done these days – and they’re very happy they finally did it! What are you waiting for?

Many people think they should apply makeup exactly the way all their friends do. While this is true, in terms of makeup application techniques-such as how to blend concealer or how to apply foundation smoothly and evenly, it couldn’t be further from the truth when it comes to other considerations of makeup application-like color choices, for instance.

Your choice of makeup-particularly colors and specific techniques to create focal points-should be based on your coloring, facial structure, skin condition, and other personal factors. You want to look the best that you can be! Good makeup application can help you look your personal best.

The color of concealer and foundation you select should closely match your skin tone, but it should also be selected in colors that will even out skin coloring. For instance, if you are prone to redness or splotchiness, you want to select a foundation and concealer in a color that will neutralize that redness. Similarly, if your skin tone tends to be yellowish, you will want to use a foundation with a bluer cast to even out your skin tone.

The type of makeup you use-whether cream, powder, or liquid, for example-should also be based on your particular skin type. Dry or oily skin requires different kinds of products. Likewise, you should select products best suited to your complexion-depending on whether you can see enlarged pores, whether skin is clear or blemished, and so on.

After you’ve applied foundation and concealer to create a clean palette for the rest of your makeup, it’s time to assess your facial features. Look at your face and decide what you like best-and least-about your facial structure or features. For example, if you have large, beautiful eyes, you might decide they are your best feature and want to highlight your eyes.

Assess your face shape and whether you want to emphasize the shape or downplay it. For instance, if you have a round face and want to visually slim the appearance of your face, how and where you apply blush can help you achieve this result. If you have a thick chin, some subtle blush under your jaw line can help slenderize this area.

Determine if you want to emphasize your lips or your eyes today, but not both, as that can be overwhelming. If you don’t like your lips-because you think they are too thin or too puffy or whatever-you may opt to make your eyes the focal point every day. If you’re not fond of your eyes-perhaps you think they are too squinty-you may make the opposite choice. If you are happy with all of your features, you may opt to emphasize your eyes one day and then put the focus on your lips on another.

Now select colors and techniques that will downplay certain features-perhaps with the use of more subdued colors. Then use colors and techniques to highlight the features you want to be the focal point for today. Brighter and deeper colors and sparkle and shine are great ways to create focal points on the face. Customize your makeup for you and the look you want!

When applying makeup to your face, it is important to use the right brushes. Not all brushes are made alike, and some are better for applying makeup than others. You will want to invest in a great set of makeup brushes so that you can avoid causing damage to the delicate skin on your face.

The first thing you need to do when buying makeup brushes is to sit down and consider your budget. Keep in mind that a high-quality set of makeup brushes will last for a few years if they are properly maintained. Brushes that are durable and made from quality materials are going to be more expensive than brushes that are typically found in drugstores. Costly brushes are well worth the investment, because they will allow you to apply your makeup evenly.

The foundation brush is a brush that will aid you in applying foundation to your face. The foundation brush is an essential tool, because it helps to keep oils and dirt away from your face. When you apply foundation using your hands, you risk getting oils in your pores that could potentially cause you to break out or get blackheads.

The powder brush needs to be light and fluffy. It is designed for gently sweeping powder over your face – the powder helps to reduce visible shine and keep your makeup in place. The powder brush is often larger than the foundation brush, and it is very easy to use.

The blusher brush looks very similar to the powder brush, except that it is smaller. It is designed for the application of blush or bronzer onto the cheeks. You do not need to press firmly with the blusher brush in order to get the defined cheekbones that you desire.

The concealer brush is small and will allow you to apply concealer onto the specific places where it is needed. The handle of a concealer brush is typically very easy to control, and the bristles are flat for effective blending.

The eyebrow brush helps to ensure that your eyebrow hairs are in perfect place. This brush can be used to separate the brows or to push hairs toward their ideal location. The eyebrow brush should be used lightly so that it does not cause injury.

All of these makeup brushes will help you to achieve a beautiful look. With practice, you will be able to control the brushes easily. Remember to clean them on a regular basis.

Women Love to wear Makeup and this is no secret. There are many who will not set foot outside of their door or stand in front of another person without first putting makeup on their face. While makeup may make you look good in your eyes, there are some that can harm your Skin and you will not realize this until later on, when you start to develop wrinkles at a young age. It is not good to clog your pores or to put stuff on your face that causes it to dry up day in and day out. If you would like to wear makeup that will not hurt your face in the long run, then you should look into Bare Minerals Makeup.

Below, we are going to take a closer look at Mineral Makeup and tell You how it is done. How is Mineral Makeup done? It is done by using cosmetics that only include Natural substances. They do not have any perfumes, dyes or chemicals in them. Basically, they are Naturally made by using occurring minerals in powder form. Today, many Women are turning to it because it is a Healthy alternative to using the synthetic makeup that is chemical based. The chemical based makeup can cause some side effects, such as dry Skin and wrinkles. What is the Original of Mineral Makeup? Would you believe it if we Told you that it has an ancient existence?

Mineral Makeup is a Term that came out during the 1970s. This was a Time when people were more into those Natural things. Women, especially, enjoyed wearing this makeup. Originally, you would find this makeup being sold in the body boutiques. During the year 1998, the Mineral Makeup started to get Popular with the famous Cosmetic companies. This became a big hit and more and more companies started to sell it. You will find this type of Makeup in a number of different types. You have blush, Foundation, eye shadow and lipstick that is made from minerals.

When you are paying the cost for this type of Beauty Product, it is Important to make sure it is True. ARTISTRY Foundation is True, it Instantly Hydrates Skin and Optimizes moisture levels for up to Eight Hours, while Diminishing the appearance of fine lines. It has Built-in SPF 20 PA+++ supremely Protects Skin from the Sun’s damaging rays, while the exclusive Veil of Protection Helps Prevent visible signs of premature Aging. True Mineral Makeup will use a variety of Natural Oils, waxes and plant extracts. With this form of Beauty product, there are Many Benefits. If you need light coverage, then this would be the perfect Choice. They also have titanium dioxide in them, which is an Ingredient that is used in order to “Reduce Acne”. Did we mention that it is biodegradable Therefore, there is No chances that your Skin will be damaged when you wear it.

Often times, Dermatologists around the world Recommend this Beauty Product. If you have sensitive Skin, then this is the perfect Choice. They do not fill wrinkles or clog pores on your Face. When there are pros, there will be cons and we do not think it is fair if we do not tell you the cons. ARTISTRY Hydrating Foundation (1. fl. oz) offers the most powerful age defense available from ARTISTRY Today – to help Prevent and Repair Skin damage, while increasing Skin Hydration by 181%! This Type of Makeup can wear off easily. We recommend you using the oil based, because the other type can dry your Skin up.

In the end, we have to say that the “Benefits” outweigh the disadvantages. What do you Think? If you don’t seem to have much luck getting rid of your Skin blemishes, you might have to pay a little more for Makeup that gives you Exceptional Coverage.

Makeup artists are the magicians who can transform your face from “Nay” to “Yay” with their sleight of hand. Their dexterity in highlighting your beautiful features and enhancing the visual appeal of your face is something to hold in awe. While it is true that any conscious person can handle fixing up their faces on their own, there are some situations that demand professional intervention. This article will take you on a walkthrough of when and how to choose a makeup artist.

When do you need to hire a makeup artist?

Everyday business requires just little makeup, which is more or less basic when you are attending a casual gathering. Some amount of foundation to even out your skin tone, a basic eyeliner outline, a nude eyeshadow and some lipstick usually does the trick. However, for the events listed under, since they demand dressing up considerably, you need a professional makeup artist to make you look extra gorgeous and get that wow factor rolling for you:

• Weddings – whether it be your own or one of your friend’s, weddings are a special event. Not only do you need to pick out a dress very carefully, but you also need a makeup artist to help you look your best.

• Company dinners – there are many working women around the globe who are required to attend company dinners and other celebrations, where many important people are invited. Hiring a makeup artist for these events will ensure you don’t overdo things yourself. A professional yet fit-for-dinner look can be easily had with a little assistance from a professional.

• Galas – Many of us are part of greater causes and socially responsible activities. Gala dinners are usually held for members, sponsors and clients, making them a sensitive platform. Getting the right look becomes important, and for an amateur, things can easily get out of hand during makeup.

How to hire a makeup artist

There are so many makeup artists out there, but not all of them are professionals. Here are a few things you can consider to help you hire the right one.

• Interview – this is the best way to find out how much an artist knows about what he/she is doing. Makeup techniques should be their second nature. They should know which palette would suit your skin tone and eye color, for starters.

• Tools – ask about the tools the artist uses. Sometimes, skill allows them to create better results with basic tools. Swanky is not always good – especially because the artist who does not have much skill will try to cover it up with a lot of automated stuff.

• Products – no one knows your skin better than yourself. Ensure that the artist agrees to using products of your preference on your skin – make sure he/she has them.

The above tips should have you sorted.

Makeup and products thereof are prone to a wide array of bacteria. This doesn’t get better when people decide to share the makeup. Bacteria will pitch camp in many of these products breeding dire repercussions evident with infections.

The best thing is to take caution. The following are makeup safety tips that will allow people to enjoy their products and not have to worry about serious infections that may come courtesy of bacteria.

1. The first thing is to avoid sharing makeup especially eye products and lip products. This is because bacteria causing eye infections can easily be transmitted this way. Those who share lip gloss will risk getting cold sores as infections loom. Avoid this as much as possible.

2. When not in use, it is vital to keep the makeup covered tightly in their containers. This will see bacteria from the outside kept out or avoided as much as possible.

3. Cosmetics will come with preservatives which will kill bacteria. However, when direct sunlight hits these products, the preservatives might not work effectively. For this reason, it is crucial to avoid direct sunlight where these products are concerned.

4. Whenever you suffer eye infections like conjunctivitis or pink eye, never use the products at all. However, when they are used, throw them away after use.

5. These products should not have any liquid added to them. Not unless this is indicated, keep liquids far to avoid the infestation of bacteria.

6. When the makeup changes colour or is no longer as it used to be, the preservatives may have expired and this means that bacteria will thrive. Therefore, throw the products out get new ones.

Above tips for cosmetics safety are outlined by the US Food and Drug Administration FDA.

Application agents like powder puffs should be washed in warm water using a good soap to keep the bacteria risk at bay. There is great importance also in knowing how long different products should be used. Lipstick and foundation should be used for one year while mascara should be used for 3 months only. Powders and shadows will be best when used for 2 years.

These recommendations will promote health when observed.

If you wear makeup, you need to know how to clean makeup brushes. If you don’t clean your make up brushes, you’ll either wind up spoiling them and throwing them away, or they will mess up your clean, fresh look by changing the colors of your makeup. If you’re not sure how to clean makeup brushes, don’t worry; it’s simple. The main thing is using the right type of cleaner for the kind of cosmetic brush you have. It’s also most important to clean your makeup brushes frequently, so that there’s very little build up on them.

Applying your make up correctly is at least as important as the quality of the makeup itself. Professional makeup artists take a lot of time smoothing, blending and brushing creams and powders into their clients’ soon flawless faces. Great brushes help make perfect makeup possible.

What Materials and Hair Products are Brushes Made of?

Makeup brushes come in all sorts of materials, with the cheapest usually being made of sponge or plastic and the most expensive some sort of animal hair. High quality natural hair brushes used by professional models and painters are made of sable, and if you want a particular brush shape in an excellent quality brush, you can find them at art supply stores. Badger fur, pony hair and even squirrel hair are also used to make brushes. The best makeup, such as mineral makeup, will often come with a set of fine brushes: perfect application gives your makeup a beautiful soft finish.

The Importance of Properly Cleaning Your Makeup Brushes

Properly cleaning your makeup brushes will save you time, money and even your face! You will save time because clean makeup brushes make application easier, so that loose powder goes where you want it instead of clinging to an oily brush. You won’t have to makeup as often because your makeup will be fresh – not contaminated with skin oils and old, oxidized colors. You’ll save money by cleaning your makeup brushes because they will last longer, so you won’t have to buy new ones. And you can save your face from breakouts associated with bacterial and oil build up on grimy old brushes. Five minutes a week, a little sudsy water, and your makeup brushes will stay fresh and new much longer. See a selection of inexpensive brush cleaner that will renew dirty cosmetics brushes.

Properly Cleaning Your Cosmetic Brushes Will Make Them Last Longer

Besides letting your brushes last longer (very important if you’re going to buy more expensive, smoother brushes), if you know how to clean your make up brushes, you can minimize skin problems such as breakouts from accumulated oils or eye infections from mascara brushes. Hygiene is one reason that experts say never to share your makeup with a friend: you can transmit bacteria on the applicators. Cold sores, acne, rashes and staph germs can move easily from one makeup brush to another, so never borrow someone else’s brush or powder puff. In fact, for people who apply makeup using their fingers, it’s not even a good idea to wipe your fingers across someone else’s blusher or eye shadow, because you’re picking up bacteria from their fingers and skin.

How to Wash Your Make up Brushes Free of Bacteria

You can wash your makeup brushes in warm, soapy water, using an antibacterial soap, shampoo or a hand sanitizer. There are also special products for cleaning your makeup brushes. Lipstick brushes may need extra care because of the extra emollients in lip colors, which can make them sticky and hard to wash. Wash them with a gentle oil removing wash you may already use for your skin, and take your time, working out the lipstick from the brush bristles.

Shape brushes while wet and let them dry to preserve their smoothness. Lay them flat instead of standing them on end, or you will damage either the bristles or handle of the brush. Wash them gently, never scrubbing, or the hairs will start to come out. Follow any cleaning instructions that come with your makeup brushes in case they have special requirements. And if you can’t make up your mind to commit to cleaning your brushes, you can always buy disposable sponge brushes and throw them away more frequently. Especially if you suffer from very oily skin or acne, make sure you’re always using a clean makeup brush to minimize bacterial problems that may increase your skin trouble.

Dirty Makeup Brushes Carry Bacteria and Will Not Give You a Flawless Look

Whatever you do, don’t use the same makeup brushes day in and day out without washing them. Aside from harboring bacteria, makeup pigments bind with the oils from your skin, making brushes sticky and dirty. Makeup colors can change, becoming darker or more orange due to oxidation and to mixing with skin oils or dust, making a mess of your daily makeup routine. Clean your brushes once a week to keep them working properly, and if a brush becomes stained or misshapen, throw it out and get a new one.

The aim of makeup brushes is to make you beautiful. The unfortunate thing is that there are some scratchy brushes that cause facial abrasions when you use them. If you have a scratchy brush, you shouldn’t dispose it-you should soften it. Here are some of the ways of softening it:

How To Make Makeup Brushes Soft

There are many ways of softening the brushes. The most effective ways include:

Rinsing: you should rinse the brushes thoroughly with lukewarm tap water. You should run through the brush bristles with your fingers to ensure that all the bristles are exposed to water. You should massage away the caked-on makeup until bristles are perfectly clean.

Washing: after rinsing the brushes you should now wash them. For ideal results you should wash them under a steady stream of warm water. When washing them you should apply foaming facial cleanser into the bristles to give the bristles a perfect look. Once you are through with the cleaning you should rinse the bristles thoroughly to prevent them from clumping together.

After washing you should dry the brushes by putting them outside so that they can dry completely before putting them back into the bag. You should ensure that the brushes are completely dry to prevent them from smelling like a wet dog. To avoid damaging the bristles you should put the brushes flat on the ground.

Other Maintenance Tips

In addition to cleaning the makeup brushes, there are other maintenance tips that you need to put into consideration to ensure that your brushes last for a long time. These tips include:

Keep them standing: after applying makeup you should place your brushes standing up. You should also separate your brushes between uses. This means that you shouldn’t use the same brush for all of your makeup needs.

To ensure that the brushes stay soft for a long time and at the same time last for long, you should take good care of them. Even with the greatest care it’s inevitable for the brushes to get old. You should be keen and be quick to note when your brushes are old and replace them as soon as possible.

When buying new brushes you should be keen and ensure that they are of high quality. For ideal results you should do plenty of research and ensure that you are buying from a reputable store. When making your purchase you should note that different brushes are ideal for different functions.

The purpose for all makeup is to enhance your best features and minimize your flaws. Unlike television of old, high definition television does not require the thick pancake makeup, dark contouring or dramatic applications. Nor will everyday street makeup create flawless looking skin.

A professional makeup artist, studied in HDTV, can tailor your approach guided by your coloring and bone structure. For personal application, the following is a guideline to the products and application techniques you will need before you appear on HDTV.

Men and women alike require a foundation, concealer and blush/bronzer for any HDTV appearance. Women (and some men) will also need eye makeup and lip color.

Aptly named, the foundation selected for on air appearance is the single most important element in creating a pleasing look.

The allover face makeup used in HDTV differs from daywear. Even the most flawless complexions should not attempt to go barefaced. Makeup for HDTV should cover the entire face, neck, hands and any other exposed skin. Attempting spot application will appear just as that…spots!

The two formulations of makeup to date which best serve HDTV are airbrush and mineral powders.

Airbrush makeup is the choice of most professional television makeup artists. The coverage is complete and flawless. Applying airbrush makeup requires a compressor-like machine. Makeup is applied in seconds, evenly and completely. Tiny molecules of either water based, alcohol, polymer, or silicone based foundation is sprayed through a medium to fine airbrush nozzle onto the skin.

Complete airbrush systems with a low pressure compressor (about 10 psi) range in price from $120US to $1,000US or more.

Television anchors, hosts or frequent TV guests would benefit from this investment. Use takes a little practice, but it is easy to master. The flawless appearance pays for itself.

“Airbrush” makeup in an aerosol can is available at many price ranges. This make-up works quite well for occasional application. However, following manufacturer’s instructions to apply to the hand and then to the face can lead to streaking. Direct spraying on to the face is not recommended by most manufacturers, or by this author. This product is inexpensive, and can produce acceptable results.

Airbrush makeup can correct flaws, hide tattoos and cover rosacea, port wine and similar skin blemishes.

The other option for HDTV quality foundation is mineral powders. This is the easiest makeup to master for amateur application. Skin tone shades are applied via a kabuki brush, a stub handled thickly bristled brush.

Application involves buffing the powder into the skin, which creates a soft matte appearance. Shine on HDTV is glaring, distracting, and reminiscent of the flop sweats on Broadcast News.

The actual application uses a surprisingly small amount of powder to achieve coverage. Minor to moderate skin imperfections can be hidden without creating a chalky appearance.

The only caution in selecting a mineral powder makeup is the mica content. Mica is a light reflector, and can create unflattering reflections on the skin. Test any mineral powder under a strong light or in bright sunlight. If the powder appears to “sparkle”, choose another brand with less reflectivity.

Poorly applied makeup is a distraction (remember Al Gore’s imitation Reagan makeup during the first George W. Bush presidential debate?)

Adjusting the makeup formulation and application before standing in from of a high definition camera can create the appearance you need to allow your message to be heard.