How do you apply discreet makeup if you are a male?

Answer 1

Applying discreet makeup for men follows the same basic principles for women, except you should be more sparing and careful about applying makeup as you want your face to look as natural as possible. Having "cakey" makeup on your face is the last thing you want as a guy.

It is highly important to make sure you have all the right materials and the right colour for your skin. Being aware of your skin type also means buying products specially designed for your skin. I understand it can be slightly embarrassing for a male to ask for help with buying makeup products!

Here are the basic steps I would recommend for applying discreet makeup:

1. Make sure you wash and clean your face first using a exfoliant. The exfoliant is designed to remove dead skin by using microbeads in the chemical to "sand" away dead cells. When applying the exfoliant, wet your face first and then massage the cream onto your face making circular movements. Rinse thoroughly and dry your face using a dry towel. Don't rub your face with the towel; a dabbing movement is best.

2. Apply a toner if you wish to. This step is not essential however. The purpose of a toner is to try and restore the skin to its normal pH level.

3. Apply a moisturizing cream to your face, massaging it gently into your face. Remember to leave it for a few minutes so it soaks into the skin before proceeding with the next step.

4. Once you have moisturized, I would suggest applying a concealer to hide any obvious blemishes or skin tone variation. Simply dab the concealer on with your brush and rub it in when you are done applying it. A lot of people suggest putting the concealer on after the foundation, but I personally think it looks better applying the concealer before putting the foundation on. You can always re-apply more concealer once your foundation is on.

5. Applying the foundation is probably the most important step in discreet makeup for men. When applying your foundation, make brushing movements upwards so you don't stretch your skin down unnecessarily. Be very sparing with your application with foundation as you want to form many small layers as opposed to a thick one. This will make it more discreet. Remember to pay attention to the side of your face, the jaw-line and your T-section (forehead and nose).

Do not go over the top with applying foundation as it will give your face the "cakey" look we are trying very much to avoid. One or two layers of foundation should suffice for discreet makeup.