Makeup: How much is too much?

Makeup application is, indeed, an art and not a few times, ladies tend to take things overboard. Experts share insights into what constitutes the good, the bad and the downright ugly in Nigeria’s beauty world.

Powder/foundation

Choosing the right powder/foundation is the usual culprit when it comes to excessive makeup. This stems from the fact that many ladies often make the mistake of assumptions when it comes to matching their skin tone to the product. According to Kemi Obele of Glam Look by Ella, “When the face becomes too cakey as a result of the powder application, it is a sign that the makeup is excessive. This also puts the person at risk of a breakout.” Ruth Aderibigbe of RuthyFlashy Beauty World notes that many women make the mistake of using the wrong foundation or powder. Instead of getting confused about numbers, perform a skin test. For ease of choice, choose from the options light, medium and dark, which work for fair, chocolate and dark skinned people respectively. Under no circumstance should there be a marked difference between your face and other parts of your body that will be exposed. If there is any such thing, it is a sign that you’re using the wrong foundation or powder and it is best to discard such product immediately.

Lipstick, lip gloss

When it comes to lipstick/lip gloss, Obele states that “lipstick is considered too much when it is put on too thick. For instance, matte lipstick application is considered too much when it shows signs of cracking. Lip gloss is also considered too much when it is too shiny and dripping.” When also choosing colour, it is important to take note of the environment and occasion before applying lipstick. Unless it’s a costume party or the event calls for such, using colours such as green, white or even yellow lipstick would seem odd for work or other such formal gatherings.

Brows

This is another part of the face where ladies tend to go excessive, even with the services of an expert. Ruth Aderibigbe of Ruthy Flashy Beauty World noted that too much comes in when the brows are drawn on too bold, too thin or scraggly. According to her, “even if you have to draw your brows yourself, it is important to follow the rules. Things are easier now with the aid of brow tracers.”

Blushing/contouring

Ideally, it can be very tricky working with blush for dark-skinned ladies. If you must use blush, seek the services of an expert. Even for fair-skinned ladies, using a blush takes a certain level of skill, else, you would end up with a clown-like appearance. Contouring is used to give shape to the face and unless you’re familiar with how to do it, it is best to seek the services of an expert.

Smudges: Taiwo Yusuph of Tees Beauty Makeover explained that a telltale sign of excessive makeup is when you keep getting smudges on people when you come in contact with them. In the opinion of Jokotola Oluwadamilolanitemi of Draib Beauty Lounge, no makeup is considered too much, rather, the problem is wrong application, especially when it is done by an amateur. According to her, “people need to know that there are different kinds of makeup – casual, bridal, party, among others. There is also the need to know that there is a difference between day and night makeup.”