As a result of the covid-19 pandemic, the highlight of glamorous makeup is now hidden behind masks. Though the wearing of masks has become normal, it is quite an overwhelming experience for some makeup lovers. 

For Caribbean women, this is particularly difficult. After struggling tirelessly to create a flawless look, we now have to consider the humid climate which affects our skin coupled with the mandatory requirement of wearing a mask, making us more prone to problematic skin due to clogged pores.

                                              Photo by Adrian Best

Makeup, if not applied with the daily skincare (cleanse, tone, moisturize, and prime) process, will result in having clogged pores and breakouts. If you do not have a regimen for skincare, this would be the perfect time to establish a routine, learn to perfect your eyebrows and eye-shadow techniques, refine your image and enhance your beauty while protecting your skin.

Here are some tips for wearing your makeup while protecting your skin and following the covid-19 protocols.

SKIN:

*  You start with a daily routine to perfecting your skin with cleansing, toning and moisturizing. Do not apply foundation and powder after this step and try to keep your skin fresh and clean all day, allowing your moisturizer to work and hydrate your skin. Moisture is key. If you have blemishes and you're not confident to be without makeup, use concealer in the shade of your skin tone and apply it only to the visible areas that require coverage. A tinted moisturizer can also be used.

EYEBROWS:

* The trends for brows are vastly changing. However you will always be on point with well-arched, natural-looking brows. Use an eyebrow pencil or eyebrow powder, whichever is easier for you, to create fuller-looking brows. Your eyebrows frame your face, so they are a very important part of your overall look. Try not to use black because it creates a harsh appearance and stands out above your look. Use dark brown even if your hair colour is black since it gives a softer and more natural look.

                                                         Photo by Adrian Best

EYES:

*  Focus on your eyes. Highlighting your eyes with makeup can create the same beauty as full makeup and since most of your face is hidden you can use this opportunity to go bold, trying different colours and techniques. 

*  Start by using a white eyeshadow adhesive or primer to ensure that the eyeshadow sticks and does not crease. This will cause your eye makeup to last throughout the day. Concealer can also be used as an eye-shadow primer but since the shades are skin toned the colours would not be their brightest.

*  When applying your eyeshadow, be sure to blend. It's blending that creates the soft natural look, no matter how bold you may go with your colours. Be sure to use the following blending technique:

* Using a soft, clean, blending brush, in a circular motion, blend the area where your colours meet. Remember to use appropriate colours because when your shadows are blended they create a new colour.

*  Don't forget to highlight your brow bone (the area under your eyebrow arch). This gives a nice, finished look. Then apply your eyeliner, mascara and eyelashes if you must.  You can take advantage of your bottom liner: It can be a regular black or you can add the colours to match your eyeshadow. Be sure to finish your look with lip balm to avoid dry lips while wearing your mask.

The eyes are the windows to the soul and they are all that you can display at this time, so whether it be bold or soft and subtle, enhance your beautiful eyes and take care of your skin.

Be your own kind of beautiful. Use your imagination and express yourself!

All photos by Adrian Best