How to Make Up a Practice Mannequin Head

Many cosmetologists practice on mannequins.

Mannequin heads allow cosmetology students and makeup enthusiasts to practice their techniques without the use of human subjects. Unlike human faces, mannequins remain perfectly still, allowing for easier makeup application. The use of mannequins also avoids the skin problems, such as dryness or acne, associated with excessive makeup use on the skin. Mannequins are available in a number of styles that replicate a variety of human faces. Although it does provide valuable experience, applying makeup to a mannequin differs from practicing on a human face. As mannequin surfaces do not absorb moisture like human skin does, less makeup is required.

Things You'll Need

• Mannequin head
• Alcohol-based wet wipes
• Makeup sponges
• Makeup brushes
• Foundation
• Eyebrow shadow
• Eyeshadow
• Eyeliner
• Mascara
• Blush
• Lipstick

Instructions

1. Clean the entire mannequin head using alcohol-based wet wipes. If your mannequin head has a removable cover, clean it using the wipes.

2. Hold different shades of foundation next to the mannequin head and select the one that closest matches the skin. Using a makeup sponge, apply a small amount of foundation to the forehead, cheekbones, nose and chin. Smooth the foundation outward until it is blended into the mannequin surface.

3. Apply powdered eyebrow shadow to both of the eyebrows. Select a light, medium and dark shade of eyeshadow. Start with the lightest shade and brush above each of the mannequin's eyes. Apply enough to achieve the desired shape and color.

4. Apply pencil or liquid eyeliner to the lids of each of the mannequin's eyes. Apply the makeup as close as possible to where the eyelashes begin.

5. Choose brown mascara for a light-skinned mannequin, or a brownish-black for darker skin tones. Apply two coats to the lower and upper eyelashes.

6. Select a blush that is close to the skin tone of the mannequin. Put a small amount of blush onto a makeup brush. Start in line with one of the mannequin's ears and smooth the blush down toward the mid-cheek area. Apply blush to the other cheek.

7. 

   Lipstick is one of the most popular beauty products.

   Use a neutral-colored pencil to line the mannequin's lips. Select one or two shades of lipstick. Use a brush to spread the lipstick onto the mannequin and blend in.

8. Inspect the mannequin head. Adjust makeup if needed to create the desired look.

Tips & Warnings

• Learning to properly apply makeup requires practice. Take pictures of each completed mannequin to record your progress.

• Applying makeup to a mannequin head is slightly different from applying it to a human face. A human face requires more makeup because it absorbs moisture.

References

• Mannequin Head: Tips to Makeup on Mannequin Head
• Shape: Applying Makeup: 4 Steps to a Flawless Face
• Apply Makeup: How to Apply Makeup

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Reader's Digest: How to Choose Makeup and Use It Beautifully