Makeup

African American Makeup Tips From the Pros

What are the best foundations? The hottest lipstick shades? Here's your handy hot list

by Katie McCarthy | 3 COMMENTS

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Makeup Colors That Pop (and Four to Avoid) No one can pull off rich or ultra-bright makeup tones like black women can. That orange lip color that ruled the spring collection fashion shows? You own that look. Orchid purple, aka the Pantone Color of the Year? That's all you, too.

"In general, always go with rich colors," says makeup artist Nick Barose, whose clients have included starlets Lupita Nyong'o and Gabrielle Union. "For lighter skin, opt for deep orange, salmon. On deeper, darker skin, go with true red, berries." Makeup guru Elaina Badro, who has worked with actress China Anne McClain and singer Brian McKnight, also loves a deep red lip. "Berry-toned lipsticks are great for cooler undertones on dark skin," she says. "When choosing a red for darker skin with warm undertones, go with a burgundy wine hue." Mills likes purple, gold and chocolate colors on black skin, no matter what your undertone.

Shades that these artists vetoed? Silver, gray and white. These colors "can make the wearer look ashy," says Mills. Badro agrees. "Frosty whites or creams on dark skin... will appear a bit gray." Mills also avoids using orange-y reds on her black clients. "Tomato reds are tricky," she says.

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