Wedding Makeup for Deeper Skin Tones: What Artists Get Wrong & How to Do It Right

February 2, 2025
Posted in News
February 2, 2025 Diana Anghelus

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Photo: Lia's Photography

When it comes to wedding makeup, every bride’s goal is to look her best. However, brides with deeper skin tones often hesitate when choosing a makeup artist. I believe that their hesitation is most likely due to past poor experiences or concerns after seeing portfolios where something looked off (the most common issue is the wrong foundation).
In this article, I’ll break down why makeup for rich melanin requires a different approach and what mistakes to avoid in order to get great results.

Common Makeup Mistakes on Deeper Skin Tones

One of the most common mistakes is selecting the wrong foundation. Many artists assume that deeper skin tones are always warm, which is not true. In my experience, most of my clients with deep complexions have neutral or cool undertones. Using the wrong shade would lead to an ashy or grayish appearance.

Pro Tip: Always match foundation based on undertone, not just depth. Testing it in natural light is the best way to get a perfect match. Some great brands that carry foundations for deeper skin tones are MAC, NARS, Fenty Beauty and Juvia’s Place.

Have you ever noticed flashback in photos? This is often caused by powders containing silica, which can leave a white cast under bright lighting.

Solution: Use finely milled powders like Laura Mercier Translucent in Medium Deep, RCMA No Color Powder or Ben Nye Translucent in Chestnut. No one wants to look like a ghost in their wedding pictures, right?

Many artists either use contour shades that are too cool or make the mistake of using black, which can look theatrical instead of natural. Instead, try reverse contouring, by using a lighter translucent powder to create dimension under the cheekbones.

For highlighters, avoid icy tones, which can appear stark on deep skin. Instead, choose gold and bronze shades to add warmth and radiance.

Some artists avoid blush on deeper skin tones, thinking it won’t show up, or they use shades that appear chalky. In reality, bold shades like berry, rich plums and tangerine look stunning on melanin-rich skin.

What I recommend: Raisin and Fever blushes by MAC are my personal favorites for deep complexions.

Another common mistake is using nude lip colors that are meant for lighter complexions, which looks pale or ashy. Why not choose rich browns or deep tones that complement melanin-rich skin?

A must-have product? MAC Chestnut lip liner is perfect for defining the lips and blending with other shades to create a custom look. If you love berry tones, they can be a fantastic and flattering option, too.

And lastly, deeper skin tones shine when paired with radiant, lighter eyeshadow shades that brighten the complexion. Darker shadows can sometimes mute the vibrancy of the skin rather than enhance it. Go with colors that pop and bring out the eyes.

Why Choosing the Right Makeup Artist Matters

Your wedding day is not the right time for a makeup artist to experiment with deeper skin tones. Choose an artist who understands melanin-rich skin.
Before booking, ask to see examples of their work on deeper skin tones for your piece of mind that they have experience and expertise.

If you are looking for a professional who specializes in all skin tones, including deep complexions, let’s chat! I’d love to make you feel like a million bucks on your big day.

Diana Anghelus

Owner of MakeupByDiana.com

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I welcome you to contact me for more information
about any of my makeup services.