Gothic Makeup Techniques with White Foundation

Gothic makeup techniques involve subtle to dramatic paleness as the foundation. For this, you’ll need a cream-based white foundation and loose powder in porcelain or lighter than your skin.

A full coverage cream foundation goes on smooth and easy thanks to its liquid texture. This enables you to apply thin and even layers. If your skin is darker and white is too much of a contrast, you can also mix it with foundation of your skin tone. White full coverage cream foundation allows you to create that professional look. This foundation is called “geisha white” because it can be layered with loose powder multiple times until the skin is completely white.

Loose powder comes in a container with sieve top that controls the amount of powder you want to add on your kabuki brush. Twirl your brush around the powder on top of the sieve for an even coating before applying it on your face from the forehead down to your cheeks, nose and chin. Blend well around hair and jaw lines.

In addition to a pale complexion, gothic makeup techniques are known for its theatrical eye makeup designs. Some artistry is required to achieve the mysterious effect with a combination of eyeliner, blending of eye shadows and mascara or false eye lashes. One of the most striking features of Goth is that both men and women wear the ubiquitous black eye liner. This is one aspect of this makeup application that not only takes practice, but an extremely steady hand.

Pencil eyeliners tend to be quite popular because they are easier to use. The tissue of the eye area is extremely delicate, therefore when choosing an eyeliner pencil, be sure to select one that is soft enough to glide easily. Liquid eyeliners require more practice, but create precise lines once applied with enough control. Felt tip liners are quite similar to liquid eyeliners in consistency and offers a bit more control. Cake eyeliners, traditionally used by professionals are now becoming very popular. A new trend is to use eye shadows as eyeliners for gothic makeup techniques. The advantage of this is that you have so many more colors with which to line.

Finally, with lip color, you can really go wild and choose deep reds, purples, black and even non-traditional colors such as royal blues and coppers. Because gothic lip color is dark, it’s difficult to achieve the opacity or coverage with lipstick alone. Use a lip liner first before applying lipstick for longer-lasting color that does not smear easily.

For more information about gothic makeup techniques and goth, read “Step-by-Step Essential Guide to that Elusive Gothic Look & Style”.

Home | Gothic Fashion | Resources | Gothic Shop | Info | Map