Going Full Coverage
I encountered and even made my fair share of makeup mistakes. One of the biggest lessons I learned early on was the importance of avoiding overly thick makeup application, which I saw growing up, back when I wasn’t into the makeup thing. I saw some instances where the color match was not great, and the makeup application was too thick, it ended up looking like a clown. From those instances forward, I made a conscious effort to steer clear of heavy makeup throughout my journey.
I was always cautious with foundation, especially on myself, and that tendency carried over to how I applied makeup for others. I leaned towards a more subtle, natural approach.
During one particular gig—a fashion show—I learned an important lesson. My client wanted more coverage, more color, and a bolder look, but I was hesitant to go heavier. I was afraid of overdoing it. Eventually, she picked up the brush and applied more herself. In the end, it was a much-needed adjustment because the harsh stage lighting would have washed her out if we hadn’t added more blush.
Which lead me to the question “To full-coverage or not?”… One of the most common pieces of feedback I’ve received revolves around coverage. I’ve noticed that non-Filipina women often prefer fuller coverage and a more pronounced makeup application, whereas Filipinas tend to favor a more natural look, which aligns with my personal style.
Today, there are so many advanced techniques that allow us to achieve fuller coverage while still maintaining a natural, flawless finish. And though preferences may vary, I always strive to strike the perfect balance, ensuring that my clients feel confident and beautiful in their own skin.