Now let’s talk about makeup (f you missed skincare, check that out first).
Makeup
Sorry to those who’ve heard this before, but it needs repeating: I’ve been a makeup artist since 2007 and have received several, frantic, last-minute requests for makeup services. In all those years, I’ve only been able to complete ONE.
This tells me two things. First, there are occasions where those who don’t wear daily makeup still want to wear makeup, and calling a makeup artist a day or two before you need them doesn’t work most of the time. Second, emergencies happen. Maybe you didn’t know you’d need makeup for an appearance, or maybe your beloved wedding makeup artist can’t make it for whatever reason.
So, you need to have a go-to makeup look in your back pocket. Think of it as makeup insurance.
It certainly doesn’t need to be over-the-top, nor should it require multiple steps and products. Especially if you don’t often wear makeup, too much is never a good idea (unless you want that, but in my experience it’s rarely worked out).
You have a few options.
Makeup Lessons
If you truly want to invest in a great routine, I offer makeup lessons! Here’s what some have said:
I’ve always hated blush because I didn’t think it would last the day and I don’t have the time or patience to be constantly applying makeup…so I am finally glad to find something that lasts… - K after learning my blush layering technique
This was seriously the biggest change to my makeup game you taught me - E
I’ve had this palette and haven’t used it much, simply because I couldn’t decide HOW to use it well. Unnnnnntil you gave me the tip…and that just makes so much sense! -M
Your 5 minute routine SAVED me! -M
All of these lessons or consults addressed particular pain points for each client - so grab a makeup lesson or a quick consult and make makeup your friend!
You can also visit your local makeup counter or beauty store. Lessons are usually free, but it’s customary to purchase the items the sales associate suggests.
Several salons that offer makeup services will also give you a makeup lesson, even if it’s not on their list of services.
Free Makeup Help
If you want something totally free, you are in luck because never before have you had this much direct access to phenomenal makeup artists on YouTube. My three favorites are:
Wayne Goss for basic, every day makeup at an advanced level
Lisa Eldridge for turning the sidewalk into your own red carpet
Shonagh Scott for accessible beauty, no matter your skill level, from a special effects artist
Of course, you can follow Electra Lane, too!
I know the actual techniques are just part of the equation. Finding the right makeup and tools is a task on its own. I’ve made a few, free lists for you to take with you while shopping - feel free to download or screen shot, or pull them from the Free Downloads page here on ElectraLane.com. You’ll find:
There are a few other worksheets and tip sheets there, too, so help yourself and please share with friends.
Practice
So now that you have your basic makeup routine figured out and your makeup kit is ready to go, you have to practice. Seriously. And even if you don’t want to wear said makeup, you can always practice before washing your face at night or before a shower (at least that’s when I try new things - no pressure for it to work).
If you still need to break things down, I have a very special product launching soon that I’m FINALLY proud of. It’s called the Electra Lane Solution, and it will change the way you feel towards makeup. In order to know when it launches, make sure you’re signed up for the Electra Lane Extra, our once-ish monthly newsletter that also gives you access to a subscriber-only makeup lesson library.
Sheesh. I feel like that was a lot. But if someone as perfect as Beyoncé or JLo spends tens of thousands of dollars on their makeup artists, it should make you feel better to know that makeup isn’t a particularly easy task. But you got this. And I’m here to help if you need me!
Appreciate you, mean it. JY