Know the Look You Want
Before heading to your makeup appointment, think about the look you want to achieve. Do you want something soft and romantic, a bold and glamorous look, or a classic and timeless style? The good thing about events like formal. give you the chance to go all out with your makeup, so feel free to experiment with more dramatic looks if that suits your style.
Consider your outfit and how you want your makeup to complement it. If you’re wearing a bold or statement dress, you might want to opt for more neutral makeup to avoid looking too “overdone.” Alternatively, if your dress is understated, you could make your makeup the focal point with bold eyes or lips. Having reference images from Pinterest, Instagram, or magazines can be really helpful to show your makeup artist.
Consider Your Skin Type
The type of makeup you choose will depend on your skin type, and it’s important to communicate this to your makeup artist. Whether you have dry, oily, or combination skin, your MUA will select the right products and techniques to ensure your makeup lasts throughout the night.
Oily skin: For oily skin, your makeup artist will likely use mattifying products and long-lasting formulas to keep shine at bay, especially in the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin).
Dry skin: If you have dry skin, hydrating primers, foundations, and setting sprays will be used to give your skin a dewy, fresh look without looking flaky or patchy.
Sensitive skin: Sensitive skin may require hypoallergenic products, as well as gentle formulas that won’t cause irritation.
For formal makeup, achieving a flawless base is essential. A good foundation will create a smooth canvas for the rest of your makeup and ensure it lasts through hours of dancing, photos, and celebrations.
Full Coverage: Many choose a full-coverage foundation for formal events like prom, as it provides a flawless finish and ensures that imperfections like blemishes, redness, or uneven skin tone are covered.
Medium to Light Coverage: If you prefer a more natural look, a medium or light-coverage foundation or BB cream can provide a radiant glow while still evening out your skin tone.
Long-Wear Products: Given the long hours you’ll be wearing your makeup, be sure to use a long-wear foundation or setting spray to lock everything in place and prevent your makeup from fading or smudging.
Your makeup artist will typically set the foundation with a lightweight powder or setting spray to ensure longevity, especially if you’re in a warm venue.
Eye Makeup – Bold and Beautiful
Your eyes are likely to be the focal point of your makeup, so you’ll want them to stand out. Depending on your personal style, you can go for anything from a soft, romantic look to bold, dramatic eyes.
Eyeshadow: Soft, neutral shades work well for a classic look, while rich golds, purples, or blues can give you a more vibrant, party-ready vibe. For a formal look, you might want to incorporate shimmery or metallic shades to catch the light.
Eyeliner: Eyeliner can define the eyes and give them more intensity. A cat-eye or winged eyeliner look is popular for formal, but softer eyeliner along the upper lash line can be just as effective for a more subtle look.
False Lashes: Long, voluminous lashes can make a huge difference when it comes to formal makeup. False lashes or lash extensions are a common addition to formal makeup, adding depth and drama. Your makeup artist may apply strip lashes or individual lashes to create the desired effect.
Brows: Well-groomed brows frame the face and enhance your eye makeup. If you have sparse brows, your artist may use a brow pencil, powder, or gel to define and fill them in.
Arrive with a Clean, Bare Face
While it’s tempting to apply makeup before heading to your appointment, it’s best to arrive with a clean, bare face. Any leftover makeup or residue can interfere with the application of your new look. Removing your makeup beforehand ensures that the artist has a clean canvas to work with and saves time during the session.
If you’re coming from work or an event, it’s also a good idea to bring makeup wipes with you just in case, so the artist can quickly remove any leftover makeup without much fuss.
Be Ready to Discuss Your Preferences
A good MUA will ask you questions about your preferences, so be ready to discuss things like:
The level of coverage you want (light, medium, or full).
Whether you prefer a matte or dewy finish.
The tone and shade of foundation that matches your skin.
The colour palette you’d like for your eyes, lips, and cheeks.
Whether you want false lashes or a more natural look.
Avoid Heavy Products Right Before Your Appointment
On the day of your makeup session, try to avoid applying heavy creams, oils, or moisturisers that may interfere with your makeup’s longevity. Your makeup artist will likely be using their own skincare and priming products to prep your face. If you’ve over-applied moisturiser or oils, it can create a greasy base that may affect the way your makeup adheres and lasts.
Additionally, avoid applying any makeup of your own before your appointment. Arriving with a clean face will help the artist work on a smooth, even canvas. If you need to remove any makeup beforehand, bring makeup wipes or a cleanser with you.
Relax and Enjoy the Experience
Finally, remember that the makeup application process is meant to be enjoyable! Trust in your MUA’s expertise and enjoy the pampering experience. Whether it’s a subtle daytime look or a dramatic glam makeover, the time spent with a professional MUA is all about making you feel confident and beautiful.
If you’re booking for a big day—like your wedding or a special event—take the time to sit back and enjoy the moment. This is your time to unwind, let the expert handle everything, and leave feeling your absolute best.
