How to Apply Makeup for Mardi Gras

Mardi Gras is all about showing off. While many people dress up in costumes and choose masks to hide their identities, some people prefer to apply makeup to create their own unique looks. If masks give you a claustrophobic feeling, apply authentic Mardi Gras makeup instead. Once you learn how to apply makeup, you can create a different Mardi Gras look every day.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Stencils
• Water
• Hair stylist
• Paintbrush
• Face painting books
• Face paint
• Glitter dust
• Makeup sponge
• Powder brush

Apply Mardi Gras Makeup

1. Pick up a face paint kit from your local arts-and-crafts or costume store. Stick with primary colors and mix new shades as needed. Be sure to look for water-based paints so you can wash them off easily with soap.
2. Pick up a makeup sponge at your local pharmacy or beauty-supply store. Set the tone for your entire look by dabbing the face gently with a single color, such as white, green, purple or gold. Dip the sponge in water, and then in the paint.
3. Use a fine paintbrush to create graphic designs along the eye areas and around the rim of your face. Get the look of a court jester by painting a series of colored diamonds around the eye area. Apply paint to the top of one eye and around the bottom of the other eye to create a symmetrical look.
4. Create clean lines with face-painting stencils. Apply paint to the inside areas for perfect looking shapes every time. Choose popular stencils like musical notes, stars, diamonds, crescent moons and hearts.
5. Wear a simple plastic mask and dress it up with bright, bold makeup. Apply bright red lipstick for a harlequin look. Apply glitter eyeliner to draw attention your eyes.
6. Pick up some glitter dust in iridescent white or gold. Apply glitter dust by lightly feathering it with a thick powder brush. Don't press hard on the brush.
7. Get your hair stylist to apply long hair extensions, or buy a fun wig for a true escape from reality. At the very least, apply glitter hairspray for a little extra sparkle.
8. Get inspiration from face painting books like "Five Minute Faces" by Snazaroo (see Resources below). Refer to color pictures to brainstorm ideas for your own unique painted mask.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid getting costume makeup near your eyes and mouth.
• Never use acrylic paint on the skin.