I learned a lot more than just "acting stuff."
We had an entire class on MAKEUP. Yes, Stage Makeup is different from Real Makeup, but there are some carry over points.
1) Know Your Face
When was the last time you really looked at your face? I'm not talking about when you did your makeup last or when you took your last selfie. I want you to take about 10 minutes out of your day, sit in front of the mirror with good lighting, and just LOOK at your face.
Find your strengths and the things you may want to downplay. For me, I have really good cheekbones and a good nose...but my forehead is ridiculous!
I've seen a lot of "how to contour" pins and I take issue with some of it because we all have different faces. What works for Kim Kardashian probably doesn't work for Reese Witherspoon because they have different face shapes and bone structures.
Learn your face. Learn the high points (where you'll apply highlight) and the points where you'll apply shadow.
2) A Good Base Is Important
Proper foundation color is KEY. Applying your foundation and setting it is important. Good contour helps show the natural shapes in your face.
You have to think of it like building a house: Foundation First.
Then you go in and fix up everything else.
(Proper foundation has always been my weak spot..pale kids unite!)
3) Makeup Should Be Fun
We had a lot of assignments. From basic beauty makeup to old age to fantasy, it was never a dull moment walking into class.
Your regular makeup should be just as much fun.
If you're bored with your look, it's time to take a day and just play. Play with colors, find a tutorial and try it, or do a crazy fantasy look. You should wear makeup because you enjoy it; not out of some societal obligation.
One reason I love Ipsy is they give me products I may not try otherwise. Lime green eyeshadow? Turns out I love it. Brownish lipstick? Not that bad.
(That's an affiliate link. If you sign up for Ipsy using that link I do get points in return)
4) Some Things Don't Work. That's Okay
When you play with makeup you're going to come across things that do not work and look hideous.
Example: During one of our fantasy assignments I decided to be a fairy. Part of that was to draw a flower design across my forehead. It looked interesting right in front of the mirror...but from the seats with me on stage? Big splotch of ICK right above my eye.
I chalked it up as a learning experience and NEVER DID IT AGAIN.
Regular makeup is like that too. Maybe you look awful in orange eyeshadow. Maybe Barbie Pink lipstick makes your lips look funny. You'll never know until you try....and then take an objective look at the result. Not sure? Ask a good friend, one that will be brutally honest with you.
5) There's Always Something To Learn
No one will ever know everything. There will always be something you can learn. New products will come out all the time. You don't have to spend all of your time researching and keeping up with trends, but take a few minutes here and there to watch a video or read and article. Meet someone with super awesome eyeliner skills? Ask her if she'll help you! People that love makeup are usually willing to help others love makeup as well. Please ask what lipstick I'm wearing if you love the color! I'm more than happy to share.