Makeup for deep skin

Makeup, product by product

How to choose each product for deep skin, how to apply it, how long to wear it, when not to use it, and what the evidence says about safety.

Face

Base, colour and glow

Face
Primer
A thin first layer that helps makeup grip, blur pores and last longer in heat.
Face
Tinted sunscreen
Sun protection with a sheer tint; iron oxides also block light that darkens marks.
Face
Foundation
Evens skin tone and covers dark marks, from sheer to full coverage.
Face
Concealer
Covers spots, dark marks and under-eye darkness in small areas.
Face
Colour corrector
Cancels dark or uneven colour before concealer, so you need less concealer.
Face
Setting powder
Absorbs oil and sets cream makeup so it lasts longer and transfers less.
Face
Blush
Adds warmth and life to the cheeks, which foundation can flatten on deep skin.
Face
Bronzer & contour
Bronzer adds warmth; contour adds soft shadow to shape the face.
Face
Highlighter
Adds light to the high points of the face.

Eyes

The most delicate area: extra care

Eyes
Brows
Fills and shapes brows with pencil, powder or gel; tints and microblading last longer.
Eyes
Eyeshadow
Adds colour and depth to the eyelids; a primer stops creasing.
Eyes
Eyeliner
Defines the eye with pencil, gel or liquid along the lash line.
Eyes
Kohl, tiro & kwalli
Traditional eye powders can contain dangerous lead. Here is how to stay safe.
Eyes
Mascara
Darkens, lengthens and thickens your lashes.
Eyes
False lashes (strip)
Strip lashes glued along the lash line for a fuller look, for a day or an event.
Eyes
Lash extensions
Single synthetic lashes glued to your own lashes in a salon; they last a few weeks.

Lips

Colour you also swallow a little of

Lips
Lipstick
Adds colour to the lips. Dark or two-toned lips are normal.
Lips
Lip liner
Shapes the lips, stops colour bleeding and blends a darker outer lip.
Lips
Lip gloss & balm
Adds shine and moisture; balms protect lips from harmattan dryness.

Finish & care

Setting, removing and clean tools

Finish & care
Setting spray
A fine mist that helps makeup survive sweat and humidity, or melts powder.
Finish & care
Makeup remover
Dissolves makeup gently so you can cleanse without rubbing or leaving residue.
Finish & care
Brushes & sponges
Tools that blend makeup; dirty ones spread germs and can cause breakouts.

Put it together

All looks

Short step-by-step looks, from a ten-minute everyday face to bridal, each step linked to its guide.

Education only. Product types and ingredient classes, never brands. Content pending doctor review. If a product hurts, stings or swells your skin or eyes, stop using it.