How to Use Ben Nye Make-Up

A clown in stage makeup.

Ben Nye Makeup for Theater and beyond has steadily grown in popularity since its debut in 1930. The company offers a variety of stage makeup perfect for theatrical productions and costumes. Because of the superb quality and ease of use, Ben Nye makeup is considered a top choice for makeup artists across the globe.

Things You'll Need

• Facial cleanser
• Face moisturizer
• Foundation/primer
• Sponge
• Powder
• Cosmetic brushes/applicators
• Cosmetics for your particular look
• Makeup remover

Instructions

1. Wash your face with facial cleanser and gently pat dry. It's best to begin with a fresh face so that your cosmetic application will last longer.

2. Apply a facial moisturizer and let it dry. Moisturize every part of your face including the eyelids and mouth. This will help your makeup last longer and prevent dried out or cracking foundation.

3. Apply your foundation with a clean sponge. Apply small dots of the foundation around your face, including the forehead, chin, cheeks and nose. Blend these dots together with your sponge. Make sure there is no obvious makeup line around your hairline and jawline.
   Note: There are several types of Ben Nye foundations to choose from. They include: Creme, which is oil-based, light, long-lasting and great for the stage; Matte, which is cream-based, gives a flat appearance and is great for film or up-close work; and Cake, which goes on slightly wet and dries on the skin, does not require powder to set, and removes easily with water.

4. Select a loose powder that matches your skin tone/foundation. Cover your entire face, excluding lips, with a cosmetic brush after the foundation is set.

5. Apply the rest of your makeup as necessary for your particular look (e.g. animal, monster, geisha, etc.). Use appropriate brushes to ensure a smooth application and a more polished look. Brushes will also keep unnecessary dirt and germs off your face.

6. For non-character makeup application, focus on accentuating each of your features. Apply Ben Nye's black eyeliner. To do this, close your eye and hold your eyelid taught. With the other hand, draw a straight line (as thick as you like) directly above the lash line. Hold your eyelid in place for at least five seconds before releasing so that it does not smudge.

7. Apply your preferred shade of Ben Nye's blush to the apple of your cheeks. Start just below the apple and move the brush toward your ears. Blend so that there are no harsh lines. This technique works for men and women.

8. Apply your preferred shade of Ben Nye's lipstick to your lips. The shade should be at least one or two shades darker than your natural lip color. This goes for men and women.

9. Remove all of the cosmetics when you are finished. If you have water-based makeup then use tepid water with just a bit of soap. If you have oil-based makeup, remove the cosmetics with Ben Nye makeup remover. Use a moist, lukewarm washcloth and massage in circles until everything is removed. You can also purchase Ben Nye's eye makeup remover. This is a gentle, yet efficient, eye makeup remover which is ideal for the eye area.

Tips & Warnings

• Have a run through with your cosmetic application and then see what the cosmetics look like on stage or in front of the camera. Ben Nye Makeup also offers makeup for everyday wear.

Resources

• Ben Nye Official Website