The effects of natural light on makeup

When applying your make-up there are many things to take into consideration, beginning with the lighting under which your make-up will be applied and, ultimately, worn. If done correctly, the effects of natural light can enhance your look, creating a more compelling expression of natural beauty.

By applying your make-up in a room with plenty of natural light, you are better able to achieve a cleaner, more natural, look. Natural light provides for less shadow and less opportunity for make-up mishaps, including using a foundation that is too light or too dark for your own natural skin tone. If you don't have windows in the room where you apply your make-up, there are make-up mirrors on the market that simulate natural light.

Take into consideration the time of day your make-up will be worn. If you are planning to attend an event that is taking place early in the morning, apply your make-up more lightly so that it radiates naturally beneath the light hues of the morning sun. Save the more dramatic look for evening events. Because the strength of the sun's natural light changes so dramatically from dusk to dawn, it is important that you allow for that same change with your make-up.

Whether it's your foundation, blush, lipstick or eye shadow, selecting the perfect colour for your face can be something of a challenge. When purchasing foundation, test it in natural light. Many make-up counters offer mirrors that simulate natural light. Make-up colour can look dramatically different beneath artificial lights than it does beneath natural light, so be sure to test all colours in the light that they will actually be worn.