Welcome to the realm where makeup transcends traditional boundaries — an era where it's not just a woman's accessory but a tool for everyone. At Avenue B, we see the lines blurring and new horizons expanding in the world of men’s makeup.
The surge is real, with influencers taking charge, makeup artists breaking stereotypes, and modern gents eager to step out with their best face forward. If you think makeup is merely about concealing imperfections, think again. It's more about bringing out what’s unique in you, embracing those nuances, and rocking them with confidence.
With the evolution of men’s grooming intersecting with the dynamic makeup industry, there's never been a more exciting time to dive in. Whether you're here out of pure curiosity, to refine your existing skills, or to start your makeup journey, we've got your back.
Let's embark on this transformative journey together!
We've all heard the saying, "A good foundation is key." When it comes to makeup, it's not just about the products you put on top but what lies beneath. Skincare isn't an afterthought; it’s the bedrock of a great makeup look.
Starting with skincare is much like prepping a canvas before painting. Imagine attempting to create a masterpiece on a rugged, uneven surface.
The result? A look that's far from the desired finish. The same applies to our skin. The smoother and more hydrated your base, the better the makeup will sit and the more natural-looking the outcome.
Here's a heads-up for all men reading this: if you think skincare is a vast, complicated world, it doesn’t have to be. You're already on the right track with a dash of knowledge and a dab of the right moisturizer (especially one with SPF for that added protection from harmful UV rays).
Remember those pesky dark circles, blemishes, or early signs of fine lines? A dedicated skincare routine can address these concerns, reducing the need for heavy concealers and full-coverage products.
Moreover, understanding your skin's needs will be instrumental for gents with specific skin types, whether oily, dry, or combination. Tailoring a skincare routine based on your skin type ensures that the makeup products you use afterward complement rather than conflict with your skin. It minimizes breakouts, avoids that cakey look, and keeps the skin feeling fresh and breathable.
In the intersection of men's grooming and makeup, skincare is the bridge. It enhances the way makeup sits on your face and boosts your skin's overall health and appearance. It's the silent partner in the journey to achieve that flawless makeup look. And trust us, a little effort on the skincare front goes a long way in the world of makeup.
Delving into the realm of men's makeup starts with a critical first step: understanding your skin type. Think of it as getting to know the landscape before plotting the journey.
The beauty products that work wonders for your friend might not give you the same jaw-dropping results. Why? Because everyone's skin is its unique territory, and what suits one might not suit another.
Let's break down the basics. Skin is generally categorized into four main types: oily, dry, combination, and normal.
But why is this important? Here are a few reasons:
Knowing your skin type narrows down the wide world of makeup products, ensuring you spend wisely and maximize your purchases.
For example:
Your skin type directly impacts how makeup applies and stays put. Oily skin can cause makeup to slide, while dry skin might make it patchy.
By understanding and prepping for your type:
This isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about skin health. Addressing your skin type means:
At the end of the day, your skin type isn’t just a label — it’s a guide, a friend whispering the secrets of makeup that will genuinely work for you. Respect it, cater to it, and watch as your makeup game levels up.
Pro Tip: Need skincare advice? Explore our Skin Quiz and Foundation Finder for personalized product recommendations based on your skin and beauty objectives.
We often hear of makeup's prowess in masking those pesky skin troubles, from blemishes to eye bags. Yet, it's essential to remember that makeup isn't just about hiding — it's about highlighting the best of you!
Let's face it, even with the best skincare routine in the world, occasional imperfections like dark circles after a night of binge-watching or a surprise pimple before a big date are inevitable. This is where makeup shines as a trusty sidekick.
Ever had one of those mornings where a sudden zit or under-eye shadow made an unexpected appearance? Every guy has. That's where a trusty concealer, like e.l.f. Cosmetics 16HR Camo Concealer comes into play.
This crease-proof liquid concealer doesn't just offer a promise — it delivers a whopping 16-hour full coverage with a matte finish. It's designed to conceal every little imperfection, from dark circles and blemishes to those sneaky fine lines. Just a dab here and there, and you're set to face whatever the day throws at you.
When choosing your shade, go for one that matches your skin tone or is a tad lighter. This ensures that even while you're getting that top-tier coverage, it remains your secret, with a natural look devoid of any obvious makeup giveaways.
For some, "foundation" might conjure images of thick, cakey layers. But here's the catch: foundation has evolved. There's a world of choice, from light-coverage tinted moisturizers to full-coverage formulas.
For days when you want a more even skin tone without the feel of wearing makeup, a tinted moisturizer or BB cream works wonders. And if you're aiming for that impeccable, photo-ready look, perhaps for an event or photoshoot, full coverage is your best mate.
Just remember to always aim for a shade that seamlessly blends with your natural skin tone — our Foundation Finder tool is an excellent way to get started on this journey.
While the idea of bronzing and highlighting might sound a tad advanced, trust us, it's simpler than it sounds. Bronzers add warmth and dimension, especially if your face tends to look a tad pale post-foundation.
For a natural look, opt for a matte bronzer like Maybelline’s Face Studio Bronzer and apply it lightly where the sun naturally hits — the top of the forehead, cheekbones, and bridge of the nose. Highlighters, on the other hand, are all about that subtle glow. A little dab on the high points of your face (top of the cheekbones, brow bone) can make a world of difference.
The eyes are the windows to the soul. And just like we dress up our windows at home with curtains and drapes, our eyes deserve some attention too.
For men who want to bring focus to their eyes or create a more defined look, eyeliners and eyebrow products are your go-to. Eyeliners can be used to give your eyes a subtle definition or even a bold, dramatic look, depending on your mood and the occasion.
If you're a beginner, a pencil liner like L’Oréal Paris’ Infallible Pro Last Waterproof Eyeliner is a great place to start, offering precision without the fuss. And for the more adventurous, there's always the liquid liner.
Eyebrows frame your face, and while naturally thick brows are in vogue, some might need a little help. You can use an eyebrow pencil or a brow gel to fill in sparse areas or tame unruly brows. Try Revlon’s ColorStay Brow Fiber Filler for that naturally filled-in look without appearing overdone.
While lipsticks might not be the first thing you reach for in the men's makeup aisle, a vast range of products can give your lips a hint of color and moisture. Lip balms with a slight tint can hydrate your lips and provide a natural-looking finish.
If you want something with a bit more punch, a tinted lip balm or lip tint can do the trick. Brands like Burt’s Bees offer subtle shades that look fantastic on any skin tone.
After putting in all the effort to achieve your desired makeup look, the last thing you want is for it to fade away or smudge within a few hours. Enter setting powders and sprays. A light dusting of a loose powder with a fluffy brush ensures your makeup stays put, reducing the risk of it looking oily or shiny.
For an added layer of protection, a setting spray — like Milani’s Make It Last Dewy Setting Spray — can be spritzed on to ensure your makeup look lasts from dawn to dusk.
Starting your journey in makeup can feel daunting, especially with the vast array of products and techniques available. But worry not — as with any skill, makeup mastery comes with patience, practice, and a sprinkle of guidance.
Let’s dive into some essential tips tailored for those just venturing into the world of men's makeup:
It’s tempting to buy an entire collection right off the bat, but it's wiser to start with basic products. Your initial picks should be a good moisturizer, concealer, and a foundation or tinted moisturizer. This will give you a feel for the products without overwhelming you.
Don’t get discouraged if your first makeup application isn’t flawless. It’s a learning curve! Practice in your free time, try out different products, and watch tutorials to refine your skills.
One of the golden rules in makeup is to start with less product and build up as needed. This prevents cakiness and gives a more natural finish.
Investing in good-quality makeup brushes and sponges can make a world of difference. They help in blending the products seamlessly, giving a professional finish. Remember to clean your tools regularly to prevent breakouts.
Makeup is a form of art. Don’t be afraid to experiment with colors, textures, and techniques. And remember, it’s okay to make mistakes; makeup can always be washed off!
At the end of the day, remove all makeup using a gentle makeup remover or cleansing oil. It prevents clogged pores and keeps your skin healthy.
With the surge in men’s makeup, numerous tutorials, blogs, and courses are tailored for men. Leverage these resources to enhance your knowledge and skills.
Makeup is all about enhancing your natural beauty and expressing yourself. Wear it with confidence, and you'll always look and feel your best.
So, now you know what makeup products to start with — but how can you really put them to the test to create trendy, showstopping looks? Here are some of the best trends in men’s makeup to give you inspo.
It goes without saying that snatched brows are a huge flex… and they’re one of the biggest trends in men’s makeup. We’re talking carved arches, neat and tidy lines, and just a touch of highlight on the brow bone.
This look draws attention to your brows and creates a bold, powerful statement.
Do you live for loud colors and conversation-starter looks? This trend might be just for you.
Pairing bright, bold eyeshadows over quiet, subtle face makeup is on-trend — and for good reason. Electric blues, bright pinks, and stunning purple shades love to steal the spotlight. When you use them along with understated face makeup that lets your natural self shine through, you allow the colors to really do the talking.
Bring out your most vogue-ready self with the chiseled contour trend that boasts sharp cheekbones and photo-ready bone structure. This trend appeals to makeup-lovers and shy beauty newbies alike — whether you’re fully confident with stunting in full-glam or still getting used to applying a touch of color, you can take the chiseled contour look in so many directions.
Carve out your cheekbones as a way to add a subtle but stunning note to your everyday look, or use it as the final step in your vogue-worthy creation.
The world of men’s makeup is no longer on the sidelines. It’s in the spotlight, celebrated and embraced. At Avenue B, we champion the idea that makeup is a form of self-expression, an art, and everyone, irrespective of gender, has the right to paint their canvas how they see fit.
So, gents, as you checkout your cart — filled with newfound makeup treasures — remember: Wear it with pride, wear it with confidence, and most importantly, wear it for you.
Sources:
Do You Really Need a Skin Care Routine? | Northwestern Medicine
Know Your Skin Type Before Choosing Skin Care Products | Cleveland Clinic
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