How to enhance your mood with makeup

Who’s guilty of turning makeup application into a habitual task?

Look, we get it, no one has the time to create a red carpet-inspired, full face of glam every morning.

But embracing a touch of colour and creativity for an extra five minutes could result in a makeup look that doesn’t just look great; it can also possess the ability to enhance your mood.

We’re not saying a pop of green eyeshadow is suddenly going to cure your seasonal depression, but that doesn’t mean it can’t give you a serotonin boost when you need it the most.

Keen to give it a whirl? We spoke to Australian makeup artist Helen Samaryan about embracing rule-breaking makeup, how to paint your face so it sparks joy, and why colour really isn’t as scary as it seems. 

Makeup can influence your mood

“I believe makeup is a way of expressing yourself,” says Samaryan. “Makeup can influence how you see yourself, which in turn can influence your mood.” 

“For me a small pop of bright colour can make me feel happier and more energetic,” she continues. “[While] a bold wine red lip can make me feel strong and confident.”

How to wear colourful makeup

“If, like me, your favourite look is a bit more subdued and you tend to gravitate to neutral or soft bronze hues, don't let that stop you from having a bit of fun with colour,” Samaryan advises. “The use of bright colours doesn’t have to make you look like a clown.” 

“I would recommend adding a touch of colour to one focal point of your natural makeup look,” she explains. “Choose to play up one feature at a time.” 

Still don’t know where to start? Samaryan suggests “opting for a bright lip or a colourful eyeliner instead of brown or black.”

How to figure out which colours suit you

“There really are no rules but it depends on what you are trying to achieve with your makeup,” Samaryan says about choosing which colour to go with.

“If you want a slightly softer look, try to complement your skin tone/eye and hair colour with the same undertone of colour,” she suggests. “If your complexion has a warmer undertone, gravitate to warmer shades, and if your complexion is cooler go with cool tones.” 

Unsure if you’re warm or cool? Look at your veins. If they’re blue with a hint of purple you’re likely cool and if they lean green you’re likely warm.

“However, if you want to make more of a statement, do the opposite,” Samaryan went on. “For example, if you have blue eyes, using warmer hues will make your eyes pop as it’s opposite on the colour wheel.” 

The main takeaway? “There are no rules, it’s all about what makes you feel good!”

Just have fun!

“I’m someone that really dislikes putting rules around how someone wears their makeup,” explains Samaryan. “Makeup is an artistic expression and who’s to say what’s right and wrong.”

“Sure, not every makeup style or colour is everyone’s cup of tea but that’s just personal preference,” she assures. 

“Makeup is there to have fun with,” she continues. “As soon as you start putting rules around, it I feel it restricts the creative and fun part of it.” 

“Just express yourself and have fun with it!”

Main image credit: @helensmakeupartist / Getty

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