Is It Better To Do Your Makeup in Natural Light?

If you've noticed that the "expectation vs. reality" phenomenon is especially real when trying to re-create a makeup look, you're not alone. But you may just be in the wrong lighting. Standard bathroom lighting often just won't cut it when it comes to doing your makeup. While you might not have a choice every day, for special occasions or when you want to make sure your glam looks the best possible, step away from the bathroom.

"It's best to do your makeup in natural lighting," editorial makeup artist Randall Intrabartola says. "You will be able to see your makeup — colors, intensities, blends, etc. — the clearest and also know what it will look like outside of the house."

If you've also struggled to get your makeup to look right in photos (guilty), Intrabartola has a few tips for that. Whatever lighting you'll be taking the photos in, whether that's natural, studio, or a third type, she recommends doing your makeup in that same lighting so you'll know exactly how it will appear on camera. If you'll be shooting outdoors, this means using tried-and-true natural light, but if shooting indoors, this may require some extra help, like a key light or ring light to get the best look. As far as ring lights go, Intrabartola loves this Amazon option from Neewer. She uses it with a mirror on her vanity to do her makeup every day and says it's bright enough and you can adjust the temperature to suit your needs. If you want to get really serious, Intrabartola even recommends going as far as to purchase your own panel light or lighted mirror. Both of these can help you perfect your look and take it to the next level, even if you're already applying your makeup in natural light. 

Lastly, Intrabartola says a good setting spray or translucent powder is necessary to top off any look and lock it into place. After applying your makeup in the right lighting, she recommends setting with one of her favorites like Makeup by Mario's SurrealSkin Soft Blur Setting Powder or Urban Decay's All Nighter Setting Spray.