The Best Makeup for Drag Queens
Are you a drag queen in search of the perfect makeup look? You have come to the right place! In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about finding the best makeup for drag queens. Unleash your creativity and unleash your true identity!
Quick facts: Best Makeup For Drag Queens
- ✅ Drag queens typically use multiple layers of foundation and contour products to achieve a sharp, porcelain look to the face – DragQueenMakeup.com
- ✅ When first starting out, drag queens should invest in quality makeup products, as they last longer and stand up to the harsh stage lighting better – Glamour
- ✅ Drag queens rely on makeup to create the illusion of different shapes and angles on the face, such as high cheekbones, a defined jawline and a slim nose – Allure
- ✅ Bold and colorful eye makeup is a signature look for drag queens, often featuring thick eyelashes, bright eyeliner and bold eyeshadows – Cosmopolitan
- ✅ Drag queens often use shimmery and glittery products to add a dazzling finish to their look – Buzzfeed
Foundation
Foundation is a key part of drag queen makeup. It helps create a flawless, flawless-looking complexion. Many drag queens will opt for a full coverage foundation, while others might prefer a lighter coverage. Either way, you’ll need to make sure you have the right shade of foundation to create a perfect canvas for your look.
Let’s discuss the different foundation options available to drag queens:
Choose the right foundation for your skin type
When it comes to drag makeup, choosing the right foundation is paramount. The choice of foundation depends largely on skin type. For example, someone with naturally oily skin would benefit from a matte finish foundation, while someone with dry skin might prefer a creamier formulation. Selecting the correct shade is also essential— you don’t want to have a face that’s too white or too orange compared to your chest and neck. It’s best to test the product in natural light and apply it under the jawline to ensure that you get an even match.
Skin types are divided into four categories: normal, dry, oily and combination – so choosing the right foundation for your skin type is important. In general, foundation formulated for oily or combination skin will give you better coverage and keep your makeup in place longer. Additionally, investing in a good setting powder can help minimize shine and set your makeup if you have an oily complexion.
For those with dry skin, look for something creamy and full-coverage with natural oils like shea butter or jojojo oil that won’t clog pores or irritate sensitive areas of your face.
Consider using a primer
Using a primer before applying foundation is one of the most important steps in creating a flawless look for drag queens. Primers are like invisible foundations that create a barrier between the skin and makeup, allowing for better color payoff and longer wear. Primers can also be used as a way to correct any imperfections such as fine lines, pores, acne scars, and discoloration.
Most primers contain silicone-based ingredients which give it its light but slightly tacky feeling when applied to the skin. Applying primer with either a brush or your fingers will help keep the foundation in place throughout the day and reduce shine caused by excess oil. Finally, primer helps create a smooth base which allows for an even application of foundation and other makeup products such as blush and bronzer.
Use a setting powder to set your makeup
Using a setting powder is an essential step in any drag queen’s makeup routine. Setting powder acts like a sealant; it helps to keep your makeup in place and prevents it from slipping or smearing. It also eliminates shine and helps absorb oils while still providing a natural finish. You can find loose setting powders, pressed setting powders, or even translucent setting powder, depending on the look you’re going for and the type of makeup you’re applying.
To apply your setting powder, simply use a brush or pouf to apply an even layer over your face. Start with the center of your face and brush outward in all directions. Be sure to also sweep some down your neck, shoulders, cleavage area, and upper chest; this will help prevent any makeup “hot spots” from appearing throughout the day.
Make sure that you do NOT dust off excess product; instead work it into the skin with very light circular motions for maximum effect!
Eyeshadow
Eyeshadow can take a drag queen’s look to the next level and create a truly stunning visual effect. With the right shades, blending and application, you can create bold and dramatic looks that will really make your performance stand out.
Let’s dive in to the world of makeup for drag queens, starting with eyeshadow.
Choose colors that complement your skin tone
When choosing eyeshadow for your makeup look, it is important to consider what colors will best complement your skin tone. For example, if you have a light skin tone, some good options are soft pastels and muted shades of pink, blue or green. If you have dark skin tones, bolder and brighter shades such as deep reds or blues will work well.
In addition to colour-matching the right eyeshadow with your skin tone, it’s also important to choose shadows that complement the colours of your outfit. Consider the mood of your look and balance warm tones with cool tones accordingly.
Lastly, think about the shape of your eyes when selecting an eyeshadow palette: larger palettes with multiple hues can create a more vivid eye-catching look (such as a smokey eye) while smaller palettes with just two or three shades can create a more subtle effect.
Use a primer to make your eyeshadow last longer
Using a primer before applying eyeshadow is the best way to make sure it stays in place all day. Primers help fill in any lines or creases on the eyelids, creating a smooth canvas that allows for more even and longer-lasting eyeshadow application. Primers also keep other makeup products, like concealer and foundation, from settling into fine lines and wrinkles, which could make them look cakey and streaky.
Whether you’re using an aerosol primer or a tube of liquid primer, they both create an invisible layer between your skin and the eyeshadow that helps it stay longer in place. For drag queens who do perform long shows, this is essential to prevent those dreaded “tear streaks” under the eyes due to sweat after long performances.
Experiment with different eyeshadow techniques
Drag queens often use eyeshadow to create beautiful, colorful, and theatrical looks. Experimenting with different eyeshadow techniques can help you create the perfect look for your drag performance. When it comes to eyeshadow, there is no one-size-fits-all formula; the look you choose will depend on your own unique style and the character you want to portray.
One technique that most drag queens swear by is brightening and defining their eyes by using a light foundation or concealer before applying a colored eyeshadow. This gives a smooth base for the color of the eye makeup to really do its work. Additionally, it helps make sure that every color stands out – even when blending multiple colors together.
Another staple of drag makeup is contouring with darker shades of eye shadow around the crease and brow bone area, as this can create an illusion of larger and more dramatic eyes. As you experiment with different techniques, remember that while it’s important to be creative, don’t be afraid to try something outside of your comfort zone either!
Blush
Blush is an essential makeup item for drag queens as it provides an overall rosy look to the face. Blush helps to emphasize the features of the face and add a little bit of color and dimension. When applied correctly, blush can provide a natural and luminous look while also making the face look more defined.
Let’s take a closer look at the different types of blush available for drag queens:
Choose a blush that complements your skin tone
Choosing the right blush can make or break your drag look. While some drag queens favor bright and bold colors, others like to channel a more natural, subtle look. Regardless of your approach, choosing the right blush is essential to create a perfect finished look.
When selecting a blush for your skin tone, try to complement rather than replicate it. If you have fair skin, choose pink or peach colors that are warmer and not too pigmented; if you have medium-dark skin tones opt for apricot or deep colors just slightly pinker than your natural skin color. Darker skin tones will benefit from orange-red hues with more pigment while olive toned skins should pick natural rosy colors with an earthy base rather than blue tinted shades.
Taking into account your overall look and coloring is key when deciding which blush to choose—whether it’s a light dusting all over for an everyday vibe or bold swipes for those occasions when you want to stand out from the crowd.
Use a brush to apply blush
A brush is one of the best tools to apply blush to your cheeks, giving you a natural and even look. There are two types of brushes you can use—a synthetic brush or a natural hair brush. Natural hair brushes tend to pick up more product and provide a smoother application, while synthetic brushes are perfect for precise control and blending.
When applying blush with a brush, it’s important to start with clean skin and evenly distribute the color on your cheeks. Start at the apple of your cheek, then blend outwards towards your temples. Make sure not to go too far above the apples or below your jawline – focus on keeping the color mainly concentrated in that area. After you’re done applying blush, be sure to blend any harsh lines that may have been created when applying it with a brush.
Contour and highlight with blush
Contouring with blush, along with highlighting, can give a drag queen’s face an extra dimension and add depth to her look. To contour the cheekbones, choose a matte blush shade that is two or three shades darker than the base color of your foundation. Apply in a light circular motion on the hollows of the cheeks, towards your temples and below your jawline.
Highlighting should be done with a shimmery blush that is two or three shades lighter than the base color of your foundation. Apply this on top of your cheekbones and above your eyebrows for an added glow. Blush can also be used to create a more defined cupid’s bow by adding a pinkish hue on top.
With these simple contouring and highlighting tips you can create bold looks that make sure all eyes are on you!
Lips
Lips are the focal point of a drag queen’s makeup look and the right lip product can really make a statement. Choosing the right lipstick, lip liner, and gloss is essential to create the perfect look.
Let’s explore the different types of lip products and how to use them to create a look that is sure to wow:
Choose a lip color that complements your skin tone
When choosing the best makeup for drag queens, it’s important to take into consideration your skin tone. Your choice of lip color should complement your overall look and needs to flatter your skin’s natural undertones. A light, cool-toned lipstick is ideal for fair and cool complexions, whereas a deep burgundy or purple hue is better suited to warmer complexions.
When selecting the right lipstick or lip gloss, avoid shades that are too bright; instead focus on hues that will make your features pop without overpowering the rest of your makeup. For long-lasting results, it’s also important to apply a lip primer first and let it dry before applying lipstick or lip gloss. Finally, don’t forget to set completed lips with a translucent powder for extra staying power.
Use a lip primer for longer wear
When it comes to lip makeup for drag queens, the key is to stay put and look fabulous. To ensure your lipstick lasts throughout the night, start with a lip primer. A lip primer is a product specifically formulated to keep your lipstick in place for hours and prevent it from smudging or feathering as you apply it. It has a tacky consistency that helps lock in color and define the lips, providing an even base for color application.
Additionally, primers are blended with nourishing ingredients like Vitamin E that help to smooth and soften lips while protecting them against drying out or becoming damaged by wear. Using a primer will help you achieve a beautiful, long-lasting look that will last throughout the evening!
Outline your lips with a lip liner
Outlining your lips with a lip liner is an essential step in any drag makeup routine. Lip liners are used to create the illusion of larger, fuller lips by adding definition and creating structure and dimension. Lip liners are usually applied after foundation and concealer have been blended, but before lip gloss or lipstick is added.
When selecting a lip liner, look for one that matches the natural color of your mouth or has a slight pink tint to it. Begin by lining the inside of your lips with the pencil and filling it in completely, then extend it slightly beyond the outer corners of your mouth using light strokes and feathering outward. Blend out the edges either with your fingertip or by pressing on tissue paper to soften them. Once you’ve finished outlining, you can apply lipstick or gloss for added color and drama!
Finishing Touches
Once you’ve completed the makeup look for your drag persona, it’s time to think about finishing touches. These are the little details that can help enhance an already stunning makeup look. Whether you’re looking for the right wig, some glittery eyeshadow, or a bold lip color, there are many great options to choose from. Let’s take a look at some of the best finishing touches for drag queens:
Set your makeup with a setting spray
Setting spray is a must-have makeup item for drag queens, allowing them to perfect their look with a long lasting matte finish. Setting sprays help make makeup stay on longer, and provide an additional layer of protection against smudging and fading. The setting spray also works by making your makeup appear more uniformed, creating a “melted” look that appliers can’t achieve with powder alone.
When using setting spray, make sure to hold the bottle about eight to ten inches from your face and give it time to dry before completing the next step in your makeup routine. This will ensure that the spray won’t disturb any of your base products that may have been used prior. Setting sprays come in a variety of finishes ranging from matte to dewy; so choose one based off your desired look!
Use a highlighting powder to emphasize your features
Highlighting powder is a key part of creating a flawless drag queen look. It’s used to accentuate facial features, create the illusion of higher cheeks, and make your makeup look more natural. Highlighting powder usually has an iridescent finish, giving you a radiant glow.
When applying it to your face, you want to make sure to use light strokes so that it looks natural and not cakey.
You should apply the highlighting powder in areas where sunlight naturally hits the face, such as:
- the tops of cheekbones
- down the center of the nose
- brow bone
- cupid’s bow
For an extra pop of shimmer, apply it on any of the areas mentioned above. To make sure your makeup looks even and polished, blend out any harsh lines with a dense brush or damp sponge before moving onto other parts of your makeup routine.
Use false eyelashes for a dramatic look
False eyelashes are a great way to take your makeup look to the next level. False eyelashes come in a variety of natural and dramatic looks, making them perfect for creating the eye-catching and glamorous look that drag queens need.
Before applying, be sure to measure the false eyelash against your natural lash line and trim it as necessary so that it fits your eye perfectly.
Once you have chosen the right size, add a thin layer of glue along the vein of the eyelash band. Wait for about 30 seconds until it dries just enough and then apply onto your lash line. Make sure to press from both sides of your eyes before giving it one more gentle press down for extra security. To finish off, use an eyelash curler for added volume and curl before adding some mascara on top! With false eyelashes applied correctly, you’ll achieve an ultra-dramatic eye level up from your usual makeup looks.
FAQs about: Best Makeup For Drag Queens
Q: What makeup is best for drag queens?
A: Drag queens often use a full-coverage foundation and powder to create a flawless base. Then they use heavy contouring and bright, bold eyeshadows and lipsticks to create a dramatic look.
Q: What tools do I need for a drag makeup look?
A: You’ll need a foundation, powder, concealer, contour kit, blush, eyeshadow, false eyelashes, eyeliner, lip liner, and lipstick.
Q: What is the best way to apply drag makeup?
A: Start with a clean, moisturized face and apply foundation and powder. Then use a contour kit to create a chiseled look and blend blush into the cheekbones. Apply eyeshadow, false eyelashes, and eyeliner. Then line and fill in your lips with lip liner and lipstick.