Shamira's Tips - Performance Makeup

Q: In your photos your makeup looks flawless when you are performing. I'm looking for a tasteful, professional look for my makeup. Do you have any tips on what features I should focus on, and/or techniques for application so my face doesn't wind up running down my costume? Sincerely, Cindy

A: Hi Cindy, Without seeing a picture of your face to give you a more customized response, I can only tell you what I use and it's pretty minimal. Believe me I've gone through all the expensive Estee Lauders/Lancomes over the years and now I am back to cruising the aisles at CVS and Duane Reade! I use very little stage makeup, the less the better.

First moisturize. I use Master Cell Protector Cream from greatamericanproducts.com.

Next, I apply a tiny dab of under-eye concealer when I need it (better to get enough sleep, though!)

Then comes foundation. Depending on the condition of your skin, use only enough to smooth out and blend your skin tone. I don't use blush at all, not even a little. The foundation I use is Revlon's One-Step Compact Makeup. A little goes a very long way. I love this stuff, it's a moist foundation/powder all in one.

Next, I use a light pink powder eyeshadow by L'Oreal on my eyelids and a little under my eyebrows.

After that I use eyeliner: Revlon's Timeliner. It doesn't run when you sweat. I use the color Vixen, not black. I think black is too hard. I don't like the look of dark shadow in the eye crease, so I don't do that. And I don't wear mascara but will occasionally wear false eyelashes. I use those when I'm going to be far away on a big stage. (I'm not wearing them on my DVDs.) To finish the eyes, I put a little sparkly stuff on the eyelids.

Finally, I line my lips with a CVS brand of lipliner that's a nice warm pink. On top of that I wear pink lipstick. On top of that I put a teensy bit of scarlet lipstick, to deepen the color pink, and then clear gloss.

That's it, done! I don't care for the overly dramatic Cleopatra look and think only the very young can get away with that kind of makeup. To be blunt, the older you get, the more witchy you look with that kind of makeup. I'd rather not scare my audience, not even on Halloween!!

<< Previous Tip

Ask Shamira Index

>> Next Tip