No matter if you are a hair stylist or a makeup artist in this beauty industry, you know it's all about the look when it comes to your clients. They expect not to have even a single bit of makeup crease or an unruly lock out of place from the minute they leave your studio until the event is over. That just isn't happening. From an unexpected rain shower to a daylong of happenings, your clients' looks can fade or change pretty easily. This is where touch-up skills come in.
If you have recently completed an Advanced Pro Makeup & Hair Design Certification, you are already on the right path. But how can you take those learned techniques and make sure your clients look as fresh at the end of the day as they did when they first sat in your chair? Let's dive into the essential touch-up techniques you need to keep your clients glowing and polished all day long.
Why Touch-Up Skills Matter
Before diving into the how-to, it's worth establishing why touch-up skills are imperative for your profession. As a certified pro, you know firsthand the importance of providing stunning looks; however, should you not know how to upkeep them, the reputation could turn against you.
It is not just an application that clients expect to be done flawlessly. They want longevity, and that's where touch-ups come in. Whether it's a wedding, a photo shoot, or some high-profile event, the ability to keep your client looking fresh all day increases their confidence-and your credibility, of course. Who wouldn't want to be that artist who's going to help keep their client's makeup looking its best no matter what, right?
The Art of Touching Up Makeup
1. Have the Right Makeup Products
Of course, not every makeup product used for touchups is created equally. When trying to touchup on the run, you know you need just the right tools. You'll want to get ready with minimal, travel-sized products that you can use around existing makeup, so consider investing in
Blotting papers: These sheets are great when you need a little extra something to soak away excess oil or shine without rubbing off makeup.
Setting spray: This can help refresh the skin and lock in makeup for long-lasting results.
Compact powders: A light dusting of powder helps control shine and set makeup without caking.
Cream blushes and highlighters: These blend seamlessly into the skin for a natural, dewy finish.
Lipsticks or glosses: Make sure your client has a shade to reapply when needed.
2. Perfecting the Skin
Your client's skin can change over time due to natural oils and movement. If you see the makeup settling into fine lines or fading, you can correct it with minimal effort:
Foundation touch-ups: Use a sponge to apply a small amount of foundation where needed to blend it into the skin.
Concealer: For areas that need extra coverage (like under-eye circles or blemishes), a dab of concealer can make a world of difference.
3. Fixing the Eyes
The eyes are one of the most noticeable features, so it’s essential to make sure they stay flawless. Here are a few tips:
Mascara: Carry a mini mascara wand for quick fixes if any smudging occurs.
Eye makeup touch-ups: Apply with a small eyeshadow brush. Just lightly apply out all creases or fading, then use a little extra pigment where it is needed.
Eyebrows: Brow pencil or gel. Fill in spaces and tame flyaways. This small comb or brush keeps your brows looking smooth throughout the day.
4. Lip Touch-Ups
Lipstick can smudge easily, especially after a meal or drink. Keep your client's lips fresh by following these simple steps:
Same lipstick or gloss: You can even use a lip liner to reshape the lips if necessary.
Exfoliate lips: A quick lip scrub can prevent any chapped lips from ruining the look, ensuring a smooth application of product.
Touch-Up Skills in Hairstyling
Just like makeup, hairstyling also requires a good knowledge of how to refresh and re-style during the day. For, after all, hair can lose its shape, volume, or texture over time.
1. Quick Volume Boost
If your client's hair starts to fall flat, do not panic. Just carry a dry shampoo or texturizing spray to add volume and texture back into the hair. Lightly tousling the hair with your fingers can help restore that freshly styled look.
2. Tame Flyaways
Flyaways can occur due to humidity or a long day. A small travel-size hairspray or smoothing serum can be a lifesaver in taming those unruly strands without weighing the hair down.
3. Smoothing Frizz
For clients with curly or wavy hair, frizz can quickly become an issue. Carrying a lightweight anti-frizz serum or gel can help you quickly smooth down frizz and restore shine.
4. Set the Style
Bring additional pins, elastics, and a small can of hairspray to styles that will hold their shape, such as updos or braids. You will be re-pinning or readjusting parts of the style during the day.
Pro Tips from Your Advanced Certification
You already have the foundation of expert techniques with your Advanced Pro Makeup & Hair Design Certification. Here are a few pro tips that will set you apart when it comes to touch-ups:
Prepping for Touch-Ups: Always start with a strong foundation. If you've set the makeup or hair properly in the beginning, touch-ups will be minimal and easy.
Be Discreet: Clients want to look fresh without drawing attention to the fact that their makeup or hair needs a touch-up. Be subtle, smooth, and efficient.
Carry Travel-Sized Products: Portability is key. Mini versions of your favorite products can make your life much easier during an event or on-location shoot.
Client Education: Teach your clients the basics of touch-ups. Offer advice on which products to carry with them for quick fixes, empowering them to maintain their look.
Conclusion: Elevate Your Expertise with Touch-Up Techniques
The Advanced Pro Makeup & Hair Design Certification has armed you with the advanced skills, but touch-up techniques can just take your artistry to the next level. Clients will always come back because they will appreciate having stayed fresh and fabulous throughout the day on their wedding day, for instance.
With the right products, techniques, and a solid understanding of touch-ups, you'll be able to maintain your client's flawless look no matter what happens. And, of course, as you continue to hone these skills, you will build your reputation as the go-to pro who delivers fresh, stunning results all day long.
Keep practicing, keep learning, and keep your clients looking fabulous—because in the world of beauty, first impressions are important, but lasting impressions are everything.
