A Cosmetologist's Advice on How to Use Makeup to Stand Out at Prom

Prom is a big event in any teenager's life, especially if you're a girl. Makeup is an important part of achieving the perfect prom look. As a professional cosmetologist, I get a lot of teen clients looking to get a beautiful prom look that will make them stand out from all the others. Here are five great standout prom makeup tips you can use to help achieve the look you're going for.

1. Eyes or Lips?- Think about what you love the most or people comment you most on. Is it your big gorgeous eyes? Or your full pouty lips? The biggest mistake in makeup of any kind is trying to highlight both features. This is especially true for those on their way to prom. Highlighting both will only make you look over done. If you pick your eyes, apply liner, shadow, mascara and false lashes that are reasonable. For lips, apply just a gloss or nude lip color. If you are accentuating your lips, go for a red color that doesn't clash with your dress color. For eyes, keep them neutral and light.

2. Water Proof It- When applying prom makeup, be sure to use waterproof. Often for prom clients, I will use waterproof makeup because of its unique properties that keep makeup from rubbing off or running. This makeup does not run or smudge when in contact with sweat, water or just long wear. Waterproof makeup is made with dimethicone copolyol which is the waterproof version of the same oil that is made by your body to stick to skin and hair. Your prom makeup will last much longer if you use waterproof makeup.

3. Don't Cake It- Few teens actually need foundation and concealer. However, if you do have darker eye circles or red spots, apply concealer to those spots only. Apply a small portion of concealer to your under-eye area. While you are doing this, make sure you are looking up, and use your ring finger and apply the concealer in a rolling motion. Foundation should be applied with a foundation brush. This will ensure even application. Start in the center of your face and blend out. Do not cake it on, only use a little bit. You can finish your base with a translucent powder. Apply lightly all over with a large fluffy powder brush.