How to Use Makeup for Dark Skin Tones

Those with dark skin tones can wear many colors of makeup.

The only rules that apply to makeup are those that focus on skin tones. While there are no hard and fast rules about what one can wear, it is best to go with colors that are flattering and suit the undertones of your skin. For dark skin tones, some makeup can cause a gray or ashy appearance, so it's imperative to check out various makeup brands that offer a wide variety of foundation and concealer colors to keep the look fresh.

Instructions

1. Seek out the proper foundation and concealer. This is the hardest part for women with dark skin tones. Companies like MAC, Nars and Milani offer a large range of colors for face makeup. Makeup should be close enough to your own skin tone so that, after it is blended on, it seamlessly mixes with your own skin color. While drugstores can offer a wide range, it is best to be color-matched at a department store, where you can wear the foundation for a few hours and see how it works with your skin as the day goes on.

2. Keep your skin well-moisturized. Even with the correct foundation color, dark skin has a tendency to be either overly dry or oily, which can ruin your makeup. Those with dry skin should keep their skin moisturized with a cream moisturizer daily. For those with oily skin, use an oil-free moisturizer with a lotion consistency for keeping your skin moisturized without distributing more oil to the skin or clogging the pores.

3. Don't be afraid of bright colors. Many bright colors on the market are far more sheer when applied to the skin. Dark skin works beautifully with bright colors such as orange, coral and hot pink. Use a duo fiber brush for applying cheek color in these saturated shades. This allows you to use a light hand and gradually build color to the intensity you want. Use a subtle amount for every day and build the color for evening.

4. Be subtle with highlighter on the eyes or cheeks. Highlighting an area can make your features pop but because dark skin showcases highlighting products so prominently, it can be easy to go overboard. Use a very finely milled eye shadow in a shimmery tone like soft silver or champagne to highlight the brow bone. For the highest plane of the cheeks, use a highlighter in a cream or liquid form. Gently dot the product on the highest point of your cheeks and blend it outward with your fingers.

References

• Beauty Makeup Tips: Makeup for Dark Skin