One of my favorite classes in college was my Special Effects Makeup class. I learned everything from injury makeup to full-on fantasy creature creation. It was a lot of fun – and provided great ideas for Halloween makeup. I haven’t kept up with my makeup practice, but I still enjoy watching makeup tutorials online. Here are 5 makeup tutorials that are intermediate – but still not too daunting for beginners.
It takes practice to apply makeup. Don’t expect to get it right on the first try. Be patient and each time you apply the makeup, you will see improvement!
Some of my makeup designs from college (circa 2006).
Makeup & lifestyle creator Rebecca Seals shared this video of her interpretation of the “Other Mother” from Coraline. Her makeup showcases how shadows and highlights can change one’s facial shape and create a skeletal illusion.
Her neck and chest makeup techniques can also be used for any skeleton or corpse character.
Makeup artist Bonnie Corban shared this makeup tutorial on how to make a Harvey Dent / Two-Face look. To make the burn look she uses latex, cotton, and prosthetic teeth, as well as special effects makeup. These same techniques can be used for zombie makeup.
Beauty and lifestyle creator Aaliyah Jay published this makeup tutorial for a She-Devil look. For anyone who wants a super-feminine sexy look this Halloween, this tutorial is for you.Β
Instead of red tones, try some greens for a wildly wicked witch.
Horror & makeup creator Mykie of Glam&Gore posted this awesome horror-fantasy makeup video. Her FX gelatin tutorial is easy-to-follow and a good challenge for beginners, but not too daunting. The gelatin scales can be prepped in advance for quicker makeup application. She also shows how she uses light-up hair extensions to add to the glowing toxic overall look.
Beauty & lifestyle creator Michelle Phan demonstrates how to do your own La Bella Muerte (The Beautiful Death) makeup. Perfect for Dia de los Muertos celebrations, this La Calavera Catrina makeup incorporates elements with special meaning to the wearer. In Michelle’s case, she drew a lotus flower on her chin to represent her favorite flower. As you design your own look, choose colors and designs that represent loved ones lost and your own preferences.Β
This skeletal makeup represents embracing mortality, honoring the dead, and celebrating the beauty of life.Β
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Welcome to my home of all things horror & Halloween! The Horror of Being Emily showcases resources, creative projects, small businesses, and more related to my weird and wonderful Halloween & horror obsession.
