Monday, May 21, 2012

Makeup Tips for the Ebony Beauty

Out of all the shades of rich browns and mocha colored women, ebony complexions are among the most beautiful. Enhancing ebony beauty with the right makeup colors can be a challenge for darker skinned women, as there are often not enough shades and colors that complement this skin tone. By knowing what to look for, shopping for makeup doesn’t have to be a hassle.

Unlike other complexions, ebony beauties cannot wear just any shade of lipstick, eye shadow color or foundation. It’s only been within the past decade that makeup manufacturers have started selling makeup items specially designed for women of color. But even that has posed a problem. There are plenty of makeup lines in colors that complement the various brown, tan, and olive colored complexions…but what those with a deeper color of skin? If you haven’t come across a makeup collection just for ebony beauties, don’t worry. There is a way to find colors and shades that will make you look fabulous.

When shopping for makeup, women with ebony complexions should stick to makeup brands that carry lines made for women of color. Even if there is not one readily available for ebony skin, these brands automatically guarantee you’ll find shades that work better with darker complexions.

Trying to find a good foundation can be tricky for darker skinned gals. If your skin is already blemish free, smooth and even toned, you don’t even need foundation so skip it. For those who do need cover up, take your skin type into account when shopping for foundation. To lessen your search time, visit the nearest makeup counter at your favorite department store and have one of their makeup artists find the right shade for you. Many companies now specialize in foundation that can be specially blended and mixed to create your own personal shade, which is definitely worth looking into.

For eye makeup, ebony complexions look stunning in shades of dark browns, coppers, burgundies, beiges, and prunes. To play up the eye area a bit, try brushing loose, translucent powder over the entire lid. Shimmer on ebony skin usually ends up looking overdone so if you want to try this look, use as little shimmer as possible.

Lips look great in mocha, deep berry, dark plum, burgundy, chocolate and soft pinks. Stick to these colors and avoid harsh, bright colors like orange or fire engine red. This can create a washed out look and draw attention to your lips for the wrong reasons. Adding a touch of gloss doesn’t hurt either.

Darker skinned women normally don’t need blush but if you’d like to add a splash of color to your cheeks, seek out pinks, burgundies, and reds. The darker your complexion, the darker your blush should be in order for it to show through. Bronzers can also add the right touch of color.