Prom is often the first time someone has had their makeup done professionally, and it should feel exciting rather than nerve-racking. The goal is simple: you should look like the best version of yourself in the photos on the lawn and still feel like you on the dance floor.
Prep young skin gently
- Do not try new skincare in the week before. A new scrub or mask is the most common reason for a breakout on the night.
- Keep your routine simple: cleanse, moisturise, sun cream in the day.
- Leave spots alone. Concealer covers a spot far better than it covers a picked one.
On the night I start with skin prep before any makeup goes on, the same as I do for my brides.
Choose a look for your dress
Bring a photo of your dress, or wear something in its colour, plus a few photos of looks you like. Then we choose one feature to focus on.
- Soft and glowing: fresh skin, defined brows, mascara or lashes, a pretty lip. Lovely with pastel and floral dresses.
- Soft glam: a blended smoky eye, lashes and a your-lips-but-better shade.
- A statement: a bold lip or a sparkly eye, with everything else kept soft so it does not look heavy.
Photos on the night
Prom photos usually mean flash and phone cameras, often outdoors first and inside later. A few things help:
- A satin finish base photographs better than very matte or very dewy.
- A little more blush than feels normal, because the camera takes colour out of the face.
- Lashes that lift the eye rather than weigh it down.
Make it last until the end
- Eat before your appointment, not straight after, so your lip colour has time to settle.
- Pack your lipstick, a compact powder or blotting papers and a cotton bud.
- Blot rather than wipe if it gets warm on the dance floor.
Booking prom makeup
I do prom makeup at my studio in Bingham, just outside Nottingham, or at your home by quote. A group of friends getting ready together is a lovely way to start the night: tell me how many faces and the time you need to leave, and I will plan the timings. Your appointment is booked once it is paid.
You can find more about occasion makeup on my services page, or send me the date.