Underpainting is a technique where you apply contour, concealer and sometimes blush first and then follow with your foundation on top. This technique neutralises uneven tone and eradicates any harsh lines or unwanted shadows to reveal a flawless base.
When using the underpainting method, you should follow this specific order for applying face makeup:
Cleanse and moisturise: Start with a clean, freshly washed face. Apply your regular moisturiser and allow it to fully absorb into the skin. This step provides a hydrated canvas for makeup application.
Colour correction underpainting: Apply colour-correcting products to neutralise any specific skin concerns ensuring you select the correct shades of colour correctors based on your needs:
- Peach or salmon: Use this to neutralize dark under-eye circles
- Green: To counteract redness or acne
- Lavender or purple: To brighten dull or sallow skin
Blend the corrector gently over the areas with discolouration. It’s essential to blend well to ensure that the corrected areas seamlessly blend with the rest of your skin.
Next, apply cream contour to your face, this is where underpainting comes to life as we are placing it underneath the foundation as opposed to on top. This will act as the bone structure of the face.
Cream Contour: Sculpt the high points you want to define such as cheekbones, jawline, nose and forehead. Blend until you see the contrast.
Concealer: Use concealer to highlight and brighten the face under the eyes, bridge of the nose, chin, middle of the forehead and for extra crispness below the cheekbones to make them pop.
Foundation or skin tint: The premise of underpainting is to create a natural base with no harsh lines. Layering foundation over concealer and contour provides a seamless veil where discolouration is neutralised, and the face looks naturally defined.
