New Hair Color? Change the Makeup

(Reuters)

The one product you’ll most likely want to spend money on — for the best color match possible — is foundation. “When going from brunette to blonde, you might want to warm up your foundation a bit, even if it’s just with an extra swipe of bronzer,” says celebrity makeup artist Julie Hewett. As you go lighter with your hair color, you want to make sure your face has enough of a glow so you don’t appear too pale and washed out. As an alternative, you can use tinted moisturizers and BB or CC creams, which even out your skin tone, hide blemishes and feel lighter on the face for daily wear. (Reuters)

Your lips are the one facial feature beauty experts insist you can experiment with. Whether you’re opting to go bright and bold or prefer a classic nude pout, use your new hair color as an opportunity to try out different shades you normally wouldn't consider for day or night. You may think a rich red lipstick may appear too harsh with your usual brunette 'do, but as a blonde you may feel like a bombshell. (Reuters)

When it comes to playing up your eyes to match your hair color, consider using an eyeliner instead of eyeshadow, which is easier to apply and more affordable. “For blondes, a more natural and subtler version of your black liner can be a fantastic shimmering chocolate bronze, fig or even aquamarine,” explains Emmy Award-winning makeup artist Vanessa Elese. “Brunettes can try a dark plum or even emerald green. And redheads can have a dark gray or blue jean blended right into the lash line for the right hint of color and drama.” Elese also recommends using a virtual makeover program, like Taaz.com, which allows you to get a sneak peak of how certain cosmetics will look on you before you invest in them. (Reuters)

To make your hair color appear as natural as possible, it’s generally advised to make your eyebrows complement your mane. And contrary to popular belief, your brows don't always have to match. “Eyebrows are the true frames of the face, so don’t forget to adjust your eyebrows to reflect your new hair color,” says Elese. “For darker-haired ladies, a shade lighter for your eyebrows will work well. If going lighter on your hair, go a shade or two darker on your brows.” Experts warn that dyeing your brows should always be left to a professional to prevent unwanted accidents on the eyes. Also, a colorist would be able to recommend a hue that will enhance your overall look. Depending on your hair color, you may just need highlights, low lights, or just a light touch of tint. (Reuters)

"Summer is all about pastels and vibrant colors, which can easily complement any hair color,” says celebrity makeup artist Julie Tussey of New York City’s Angelo David Salon. “When in doubt, stick with on-trend colors, such as cognac, gold and peach tones around the eyes, lips and cheeks.” However, if you’re looking for colors that are more demure and natural, nude and mauve lips, in particular, work for all hair colors. (Reuters)

According to Tussey, the most important factor in changing up your makeup regimen is the season. “As the weather changes, our skin also changes in tone, which requires a different set of makeup to make it work,” she explains. “Summer weather means your skin will give a warmer tone. Opt for foundations that are a shade darker than usual. My suggestion is to explore BB creams because it multitasks as a primer, moisturizer and SPF while evening out your skin tone. This relieves you from buying other products, which will save you money and time.” (Reuters)