Loved working on this latest Guess X strand bags shoot photographed by Tom Wholohan. Model Summer Kane.

When it comes to makeup for darker skin tones, the key is to enhance natural beauty while celebrating the rich shades. Natural makeup allows the skin to shine through, creating a radiant and effortless look. In this guide, i’ll explore tips and techniques to achieve a stunning natural makeup look that complements and accentuates dark skin tones.

1. Start with Skincare:

The foundation of any makeup look is healthy, well-moisturized skin. Begin by cleansing the skin and applying a hydrating moisturizer to create a smooth base. Consider using a primer to ensure your makeup lasts longer and adheres seamlessly.

2. Choosing the Right Foundation:

Finding the perfect foundation match is crucial for a natural look. Many makeup brands now offer diverse shade ranges to cater to darker skin tones. Look for foundations with warm undertones to complement the natural richness of the skin. Applying foundation sparingly and focusing on areas that may need extra coverage creates a natural, skin-like finish.

3. Highlight with Concealer:

To brighten specific areas, such as the under-eye area and the center of the forehead, use a concealer that is one to two shades lighter than your foundation. This technique adds dimension to your face, providing a fresh and awake appearance without looking overly highlighted.

4. Bronze and Contour:

Dark skin tones beautifully lend themselves to bronzing and contouring. Choose warm-toned bronzers and contours to define your cheekbones, jawline, and forehead. Be mindful of the products’ pigmentation and blend thoroughly for a seamless, natural finish.

6. Eyeshadow Choices:

For a natural look, opt for neutral eyeshadow tones like warm browns, coppers, or terracottas. These colors complement dark skin tones beautifully and can be applied lightly for a subtle wash of color or built up for a more defined look. Consider adding a touch of shimmer to the center of the lids for an extra pop.

7. Luscious Lashes:

Curl your lashes and apply mascara to open up the eyes. If you want to take it a step further, you can apply natural-looking false lashes for added volume. A few individual lashes on the outer corners can create a fluttery effect without appearing too dramatic.

8. Accentuate Lips with Earthy Tones:

Dark skin tones can carry a wide range of lip colors. For a natural look, opt for earthy tones like rich browns, warm nudes, or deep mauves. Consider lip liners to define the edges, and choose a lipstick or gloss that enhances your natural lip color.

1. Celebrating Natural Texture:

The afro, with its voluminous and textured curls, is a symbol of natural beauty and authenticity. One of the first considerations when working with a model sporting an afro is to celebrate and enhance the natural texture of their hair. I went for minimal manipulation, allowing the model’s afro to take center stage. Moisturizing products and light styling techniques were used to define curls and showcase the hair’s natural bounce and vitality.