Contrary to popular belief, makeup looks good on darker skin as well as lighter skin. The makeup on the darker skin is just as flattering if not even better when applied properly.

The key for the darker skin is to use the best foundation with a water base. Since the darker skin tends to look oily, the water-based foundation will provide the enhanced appearance without the oily look. Using a shade coordinated with the natural skin tone enhances the appearance further.

Use a dusting powder over the foundation to prevent the oily appearance. Make sure to blend the foundation into the lines of the hair and jaws for a seamless look. Do not apply the dusting powder in the areas of the eyes.

For the colors of eye shadow, select browns and bronzes to flatter the darker skin tone. Metallic colored eye shadows also are a great selection for the eye shadow colors. Using white or light colored eye shadow look good on the darker skin tones as well as purple and blues to enhance the natural beautiful coloring.

Apply the eye shadow in layers or combination of three for a dramatic effect for the eyes. Use the darker colors on the outside areas of eyes with the lighter shades used closer to the nose regions.

Use a dark colored eyeliner to highlight the shape of the eyes. Using brown or black for the colors of the eyeliner makes the eyes stand out. With the ring finger on the left hand, if you are right-handed, gently blend the eyeliner to soften the effect around the eyes.

Apply mascara to add to the attraction of the eyes. Using brown or black mascara to the eye lashes lengthen the lashes as well as frames the eyes on the face. Apply two coats of mascara to increase the effect.

Apply a highlighter to the bridge of the nose, around the eyes, above the cheekbones, and upper lip. This will make the face brighter presenting a new appearance to the other areas of the face as well as the eyes, lips, and cheeks.

Apply a blush in a natural shade to emphasize the shape of the cheekbones. Apply with a brush and blend the blush into the foundation with gently pressure. Use the ring finger of the left hand again to avoid stretching the skin with too much pressure.

Apply lipstick in dark red, burgundy, or corals. The colors enhance the darker skin tone while adding the needed color to the lips. Use a lip liner to keep the lipstick from smearing or fading in the lip region.

Use darker colors for the evening to present the best presentation of makeup.

Jason Ladock

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