Makeup is one of the most versatile forms of self-expression out there. Literally, there are endless possibilities for how to apply it. But if you’re looking to create a more masculine look, there are certain techniques you can use.
When it comes to looking masculine, sometimes less is more. A light foundation or BB cream, some simple concealer to even out your skin tone and a bit of mascara can go a long way. Contouring is another great way to add some definition to your face. Use a bronzer a few shades darker than your skin tone to create some shadows along your jawline, temples, and cheekbones. Finally, brows can make or break your whole look. If you want a more masculine appearance, opt for a thicker, darker brow.
Remember, experimentation is key! Try out different techniques presented in this article until you find what works best for you.
1. Find your best foundation match
The first step to pulling off any makeup look is finding the right foundation. This is especially important when trying to create a masculine look, as you don’t want your foundation to look cakey or heavy. The goal is to even out your skin tone and create a smooth canvas for the rest of your makeup.
When choosing a foundation, it’s important to find one that’s the right shade for your skin. If you can, test out foundations in natural light to get a better sense of how they’ll look once applied. Once you’ve found a foundation you like, apply it with a damp beauty sponge for the most even coverage.
2. Conceal problem areas
After you’ve applied your foundation, it’s time to tackle any problem areas with concealer. If you have dark circles or blemishes you’d like to cover up, choose a concealer that’s one or two shades lighter than your skin tone. Apply the concealer directly to the areas you want to cover, and then blend it out with a beauty sponge or your fingers.
3. Define your brows
Brows can make or break your whole look, so it’s important to take the time to get them right. If you want a more masculine appearance, opt for a thicker, darker brow.
First, use a brow pencil or powder to fill in any sparse areas. Then, use a brow gel to comb your brows into place and keep them there all day.
Some popular masculine eyebrow shapes include:
- The straight brow: this is a classic masculine look that works well for most face shapes. To achieve this look, fill in your brows as usual, then use a brow gel to comb them straight up and out.
- The natural brow: if you have full, thick brows naturally, lucky you! Simply fill in any sparse areas and comb them into place with a brow gel.
- The angled brow: this look is great for angular or square face shapes. To achieve it, fill in your brows as usual, then use a brow gel to comb them up and out at an angle.
4. Add some contouring
Contouring is a great way to add some definition to your face and create the illusion of a more masculine jawline. To contour, use a bronzer or contouring powder that’s a few shades darker than your skin tone. Apply it along your jawline, temples, and cheekbones, then blend it out with a makeup brush or beauty sponge.
5. Highlight your best features
After you’ve contoured, it’s time to highlight your best features. Use a highlighter or illuminator on your cheekbones, brow bones, and down the center of your nose. This will give you a natural-looking glow and help to make your features pop.
6. Choose the right blush
Blush is a great way to add some color to your face, but it’s important to choose the right shade. Opt for a natural-looking matte blush in a shade that compliments your skin tone. Apply it to the apples of your cheeks and blend it outwards for a healthy-looking flush. Then, apply a light dusting. Too much color will make you look more feminine.
7. Line your eyes
Eye liner is a great way to make your eyes pop, but it can be tricky to get right. If you want a more masculine look, go for a thicker, darker line. Start by lining your upper lid, then use a smudging brush to blend the line outwards for a soft, smokey effect.
8. Go light on the mascara
No makeup look is complete without a coat (or two) of mascara. However, to achieve a more masculine look, it’s important to go light on the mascara. Apply one or two coats to your upper lashes, then use a Lash Comb to separate and define them.
9. Fill in your lips (optional)
This step is optional because not everyone likes to wear lipstick or lip gloss. However, if you want to add a little more definition, go for a shade that’s natural-looking and complimentary to your skin tone. Apply it with a lip brush for the most precise application. Be sure to use a tissue to blot away any excess.
You can create a thinner lip look if you want by avoiding any color in the center of your lips. Instead, focus on the outer edges and blend the color inwards.
10. Set your makeup
Once you’ve finished applying your makeup, it’s important to set it in place. This will help to prevent your makeup from sliding or smudging throughout the day. Use a setting powder or spray to set your makeup, then you’re good to go!
Final thoughts
Well, there you have it! These are just a few ways to apply makeup to look more masculine. Just remember to keep it simple and natural-looking, and you’ll be sure to turn heads for all the right reasons. Now that you know how to apply makeup to look masculine, put these tips into practice and see for yourself how they work. With a little bit of time and effort, you’ll be able to create the perfect masculine makeup look for you.