How to Apply Bridal Makeup for an Asian Face

Applying make up to an Asian face is not much different than applying it to a Caucasian or African-American face. The basic rule still applies--make it look like you're not wearing any makeup. General makeup application is usually simple, but your wedding day can be a different story. Follow these guidelines on how to apply wedding makeup to Asian skin and your wedding day makeup jitters will be one less thing to be nervous about.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Mascara Lipstick Lip gloss Concealer Lightening creme Lip pencil

1. Work with a professional to find the perfect shades and colors for your skin. Because Asian skin comes in so many shades and undertones, working with a professional is ideal for finding your exact color.

2. Start getting facials several months before your wedding day. Before your wedding day, you should be making sure your skin is clear and as close to being flawless as possible. If you are going to get facials done, start about 4 or 5 months before your wedding. This will give your skin time to heal if it breaks out and get accustomed to the entire facial process. Schedule your last facial before your wedding at least 3 days before the date to make sure your skin is ready for the makeup on the big day.

3. Work on the eyebrows about 1 month in advance. Getting your eyebrows done 1 month before your wedding day will give you time to fix any problems. This is a general rule if you have never had your eyebrows done or if it has been a very long time since you've last had them done. This way if any problems arise, they can be fixed before the wedding. However, if you get your eyebrows done regularly, you can schedule an eyebrow appointment the day before your wedding if you trust your stylist.

4. Focus on your eyes. Most Asian women have almond-shape eyes, which is one of the most desired shapes. For this reason, it is important to make sure you pay close attention when applying your eye makeup. When it comes to eye shadows, use shades that complement your dress and ones that are light and shimmery. Try sticking with black eyeliner and black mascara because they show up better in pictures and bring more attention to your eyes. This is not the time to experiment with different color liners and shadows, just stick with the basics. By adding a little gray or dark brown shadow to the base of your lower lashes, you can define your eyes nicely for pictures.

5. Accentuate your lips. More often than not, Asian women tend to have thinner lips. If you have thin lips, there are many tricks you can use to make them appear bigger without using harsh lip plumpers or running to the doctor for collagen lip injections. One thing you can do to bring attention to your lips is to make sure they are moisturized. You can do this by using Carmex or Vaseline and rubbing it into your lips. Also, use a nude color lip pencil and make an outline of your lips just outside of them to make them look bigger. As a bonus, the nude pencil will help prevent your lipstick from running or smearing. Apply the color you have chosen, which should be a color that complements your dress and eyes. Then blot your lipstick with a tissue, reapply the lipstick and add a touch of lip gloss.

6. Stay hydrated on the days leading up to your wedding day. Make sure you drink plenty of fluids to keep your skin hydrated before the wedding and on the actual day. This will make your makeup look better on your wedding day and it will adhere to your skin better.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider the high lightening crèmes you will be using with your wedding day makeup. Certain shades could make your skin look very pale in your wedding pictures. Save your lipstick for last, but moisturize your lips while you are moisturizing your face. Apply the moisturizer to your face about 10 minutes before applying the foundation. This will help your foundation go on smoother and look flawless.
• When applying concealer under your eyes, be careful not to pile it on. While taking pictures, your eyes could end up looking too white, like you have very puffy bags under your eyes. You can use bronzers and slight light reflecting foundations, but steer clear of shimmery bronzers and blushers. If you use them, you might end up looking like you're greasy instead of dewy. Always remember to wear waterproof mascara. This is your wedding day, so you might cry!

Resources

• Applying Asian makeup for your wedding day