How to Apply Gothic Makeup for a Pale Complexion

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Gothic makeup techniques involve subtle to dramatic paleness as the foundation. The best way to apply white cream foundation is to approach the face as a blank canvas, much as an artist would. Thin layers of wash are the first steps to a painting.

Steps

1. Start with a clean, moisturized face. Let the moisturizer set for a few minutes. Wipe off any excess moisturizer with a tissue as greasy skin will make the foundation slip and slide.
   
2. 
   
3. Dip your foundation brush into the white cream-based foundation to wipe up a thin layer onto the brush. Using the foundation brush, gently pat the cream foundation onto the surface of the face in an evenly thin layer. Repeat dipping and gently patting the foundation until the entire face is completely covered with a thin and even base.
   
4. 
   
5. Avoid dragging the brush across the face, as this movement will wipe off the makeup. Blend well at the hairline and jaw line to avoid a mask-like look.
   
6. Once your entire face is covered with a thin and even layer, set the foundation immediately after by brushing loose powder that is lighter than your skin tone, such as porcelain. This absorbs the excess oils on the skin that causes the cream foundation to smear. It helps the makeup to stay put and not move for hours. The powder or cream foundation texture is similar to acrylic gouache painting for its opacity and durability.
   
7. Repeat the white cream foundation and powder process a second time for a more dramatic look for evening. This will help create even long-lasting results.
   
8. If makeup is for film or photography, three thin layers of foundation with loose powder in between are recommended to last for many hours, even under hot lights.
   

Tips

• Full coverage cream foundation in geisha white: A full coverage cream foundation goes on smooth and easy thanks to its liquid texture. This enables you to apply thin and even layers. If your skin is darker and white is too much of a contrast, you can also mix it with foundation of your skin tone.
  
• Loose porcelain powder: This type of powder comes in a container with sieve top that controls the amount of powder you want to add on your kabuki brush. Twirl your brush around the powder on top of the sieve for an even coating before applying it on your face from the forehead down to your cheeks, nose and chin. Blend well around hair and jaw lines.
  

Warnings

• A full coverage cream foundation goes on smooth and easy thanks to its liquid texture. This enables you to apply thin and even layers. If your skin is darker and white is too much of a contrast, you can also mix it with foundation of your skin tone
  

Related wikiHows

• How to Apply Makeup
  
• How to Dress Goth
  
• How to Apply Eye Makeup
  
• How to Be Goth
  
• How to Cover Skin Flaws With Makeup
  

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