Prom Makeup Tips: From Reducing Shine to Retaining Lipstick

A huge part of going to the prom takes place before the actual prom, especially for the girls. Besides choosing the perfect dress, the right shoes and finding a fun date, every girl going to the prom needs to worry about her hair and makeup. Getting the two done professionally is not always in someone's budget, but both are just as important as the dress.

Make sure you take the time needed to perfect your prom makeup, try out several looks beforehand taking into consideration the dress you will be wearing and the way you will be wearing your hair. As with any time you apply makeup, less is always more. It is the way you apply your makeup that makes all the difference, so create a look that enhances your features and makes them sparkle.

Here are the top five prom makeup tips that girls look for help with every year. Everytime I apply makeup for a friend going to the prom, I use each of these techniques to achieve the look they want.

Best Way to Reduce Shine
One of everyone's biggest concern when applying makeup for the prom is an easy way to reduce shine. The last thing you want in your prom pictures is a shiny forehead and nose, but as the night goes on the chances of both occurring rises. The easiest way to avoid this problem is to start at the beginning, when you are applying your foundation. A matte formula works the best and there are several new products that are not only matte, but specially formulated to reduce shine even under the brightest lights.

Not So Smoky, Smoky Eyes
The smoky eye look is a great way to set off one of the best features on your face and give you a dramatic look, but not everyone is comfortable with full on black eyelids. That's fine, there is a way to replicate a smoky eye that is a little more subtle but doesn't give up any of the dramatic flair that you crave. Instead of using black, charcoal and gray shades use tones in the purple and blue family. Blue pigments are a great idea for lips and around the eyes, because it makes the whites of your teeth and eyes really pop. Instead of sweeping black eyeshadow over your eyelids, use lavender eyeshadow over your entire lid and then brush dark violet into the creases.