The world is watching in high definition. With cameras capturing every detail, the pressure is on makeup artists to deliver flawless finishes that stand up to the scrutiny of the small screen. It’s no longer enough to look good in person; you need to look impeccable under the unforgiving eye of the HD camera. StyleSpeak spoke to renowned makeup artists to understand the art and science of HD makeup artistry, exploring the latest techniques and secrets to make your clients look like divas.
Less is more
In the age of HD, the adage “less is more” takes on new significance. What might appear flawless under natural light can look cakey or heavy on camera. The key to HD makeup is a sheer, natural finish that enhances features without overwhelming them.
Ojas Rajani, celebrity makeup artist, hairstylist, image consultant, and beauty influencer for 30 years in Bollywood, says, “Flawless makeup has always been a rage for decades. We all want to look picture-perfect on and off camera. Today’s makeup rule follows a simple ideology – Less is more, as HD cameras pick up every flaw. So you have to play smart.”
Hydration: The foundation of flawless HD skin
Hydration is the unsung hero of HD makeup. A well-hydrated canvas ensures makeup glides smoothly, preventing dryness and flakiness and accentuating fine lines. According to Manisha Chopra, International Makeup Coach and Founder – SeaSoul Cosmetics Pvt. Ltd, “The first step is hydration. A well-moisturised face is essential for smooth makeup application and prevents the dreaded cakey look. Use a lightweight, hydrating moisturizer tailored to your skin type to create a supple base.” Ojas added, “The first step in HD makeup is to indulge in hydrating skin care as you need an extremely buttery smooth feel on your face before makeup application.”
Blurring the lines: The power of primer in HD Makeup
A blurring primer is indispensable in the HD makeup artist’s arsenal. It minimizes the appearance of pores, fine lines, and imperfections. Choose a primer with a silicone-based formula for optimal blurring effects. Manisha recommends choosing a primer that complements the skin. Opt for a mattifying primer for oily skin or a hydrating one for dry skin. Ojas adds, “Use a blurring primer on the under eye and laugh lines or pores to blur out any imperfections.”
For extra coverage, consider using a colour-correcting primer underneath the blurring primer to address specific skin concerns like redness or dullness.
Colour Corrector – The secret weapon
Colour correction is often overlooked, but it’s crucial to achieving a flawless HD base. By neutralizing discolourations, colour correctors create a smooth, even canvas for applying foundation. Always use the colour corrector directly to the areas that need correction, using a small brush or your fingertips.
“The corrector should be according to your client’s skin tone. An orange corrector goes on all tones, but use it sparingly on pigmented areas or shadows under the eye”, recommends Ojas.
Concealer – The cornerstone of HD Coverage
Using a concealer is pivotal in all kinds of makeup, but with HD makeup, it becomes all the more important as every detail is magnified.
The first step is to choose a concealer that matches the skin tone and offers buildable coverage. “Use a high-coverage yet lightweight concealer to cover imperfections. Apply it only where needed and blend well. This ensures an even-toned complexion without a heavy appearance,” says Manisha.
Concealers provide targeted coverage for specific imperfections, so choosing the right tone is essential. Ojas recommends using a concealer in rosy tones to neutralise discolouration, while yellow tones must be avoided as they can make the skin look ashy.
Foundation – Making the perfect base
Foundation is a must for any makeup. Ojas suggests using a foundation that is brighter but not lighter on the face and neck in a stippling technique to avoid cakiness. Blending it well in a polishing technique is essential so it looks like a second skin.
“After this, use a lighter concealer in a hiliting technique under the eye to the cheekbone area, the tip of the nose, and the chin to accentuate your features. Set with a setting powder sparingly, use a blush in creme form well blended into the cheekbone area, and avoid too much hiliter as the camera picks up skin granules and textured skin. Even more so, a soft, dewy look is better than a shiny one,” adds Ojas.
For the lips and eyes
Ojas’ pro tip, “Use rosy and peachy tones on lips and eyes to give a more fresh look. Use smudged eyeliner instead of jet black for the eyes, as it accentuates the eyes better and gives them a soft look.
Setting Spray – Adding a Midas touch
“Finish with a setting spray to lock in your makeup and eliminate any powdery residue. A setting spray not only prolongs the wear of your makeup but also imparts a dewy, fresh look that translates beautifully on camera,” says Manisha.
Ojas recommends using a matt finish setting spray, which works best for the camera. The result is a picture-perfect look without using filters.
“By following these steps and focusing on minimal product application, you can achieve a flawless makeup look that is both camera-ready and naturally radiant. Remember, in the world of HD makeup, less truly is more,” concludes Manisha.
