China Doll Makeup Techniques

China Doll Makeup Techniques

The classic China doll has a face that is smooth, pale to the point of being almost pure white, with prominent dark colors around the eyes and mouth.  China doll makeup techniques are used to recreate this look on women today.  There are several reasons for women to want to use China doll makeup techniques, including costume parties and for modeling.

Applying China doll makeup techniques should probably be done by a professional makeup artist, especially if you’ve never tried it yourself.  If you do decide to give it a go on your own, the key is to go slowly and use the best products you can find.  Many costume shops will have the thick white powder base for use with several types of costumes (clowns, vampires, Geisha girls, etc.).  You can use everyday makeup for your eyes and mouth.

One of the best China doll makeup techniques is to apply a thin white coat first, then apply a normal amount of eyeliner and dark lipstick.  Don’t overdo any of it at first.  Depending on your skin’s normal color, you may not need much to achieve the look you want.  If that’s the case, you’ll be more comfortable and the makeup will be less likely to run.

Remember that one of the keys with any of the China doll makeup techniques is to create a contrast between the light and dark shades.  Another goal is to give the appearance of a very small mouth and large eyes.  If you happen to have the reverse (small eyes and a generous mouth), take special care with the use of the makeup to create the opposite look.

A note of caution about applying China doll makeup techniques:  the white powder often must be applied in a thick coat.  If you’re prone to breaking out from heavy makeup use, try to find a hypoallergenic product.