Ethnic skin, African American skin, Black skin … these are all words used to describe us as women of color.

If you look at 75% of the worlds population, it is made up of people with dark skin.  How has the cosmetic industry viewed our presence when it comes to makeup?

With new technology and intensive training, the cosmetic industry has created a wide range of products designed to enhance the skin of dark skin women. The foundations and products use to have your skin looking red, gray and you might even describe it a ghostly.

The base that was used to create palettes for dark skin tones did not take into consideration the many shades  of black women.  And now that great strides have been made to include your abundantly beautiful hues, the key now becomes, how do you apply your makeup to get flawless looking skin?

Start With a Black Skin Care Regimen

For best results you start with a fresh face and a good black skin care regimen is the place to begin.  Your face is like a blank canvas and you are the artist about to create a masterpiece.

Cleanse – By all means this is the most important step to take in your regimen.  One of the key points to remember is  to not over cleanse your face.  Your morning and night cleansing regimen should be enough.

Tone – The purpose of a toner is to bring your skins pH level into balance.  Some of you still feel the need to use soap on your face.  Toners will also help remove any residue from soap buildup.

Moisturize – A good moisturizer will keep your skin hydrated and moist.  It’s a good idea to purchase one that has a sunscreen in it.  Moisturizers also prep your skin for makeup applications.

It’s been said that as women of color, we don’t have to concern ourselves with anti aging products.  That’s true to a certain extent.  But,  if your lifestyle is one that involves activities that will have you looking older than your age (smoking, alcohol, too much sun exposure, even eating the wrong foods), your skin will become dry and have you looking for a good moisturizer that acts as an anti aging product .

Makeup Basics for Flawless Dark Skin

The Main objective in applying makeup is to accentuate your best features and minimize what you feel is less attractive.

Makeup applications vary depending on your face structure, the shape of your eyes, the color of your hair and the tone of your skin.

Foundations  are used to even out your skin tone, hide minor imperfections and to protect your skin from dirt, debris and the sun.

Liquid and cream are the most widely used types of foundations.  They contain essential and mineral oils and are referred to as oil based.  These products are typically the choice  for normal to dry skin.

Water based liquid foundations generally give your skin a more matte finish.  They are more effective for oily skin because they won’t add more oil to your skin.

Liquid foundations are suspensions of organic and inorganic pigments that are either in an alcohol or water based solution.  Most liquid solutions have to be shaken before they’re used.

When using a foundation its success is dependent upon selecting the right color and using an effective application method.

Concealers are used to cover blemishes and discolorations on your skin and are applied before your foundation.

Some concealers treat acne and oiliness while others provide anti aging ingredients and moisturizing benefits.  Concealers come in pots, pencils, wands and tubes or sticks.

How Long Does It Take To Apply Makeup To Your Dark Skin Tones

It should never take longer than 15 minutes to apply your makeup.  When applying your foundation, use a sponge and begin under your eye area.  This is where you’ll find coverage needed most.

Once your foundation is applied, it’s just a matter of adding a little eye candy and lip color.  Of course if you want a more dramatic look, your eye liner and mascara will have a heavier application.

Don’t forget the tools of the trade.  Makeup brushes and sponges  are the key to a perfect application and flawless appearance.

While most of you don’t need to wear makeup, it’s always good to know the basics if you ever decide to give it a go.

Dedicated To Your Beauty,

Juliette Samuel
Esthetician/Author/Publisher

Nyraju Skin Care