EDUCATION AT CAMERA READY

The fine line between finishing powder and setting powder is frustratingly blurry. The industry now seems to market these products as one and the same, making the actual uses and benefits of each unclear. If you’re feeling confused and unsure of which powder is right for you, worry no more! We’re breaking down the differences between the two so you can feel more comfortable and educated before making a purchase. We’ve even linked to a few of the best setting and finishing powders that are perfect for any makeup bag or kit. Happy powder shopping, beauties!   What is Setting Powder? Designed to “set” or hold foundation in place, setting powders prevent base makeup from rubbing off and reduce shine for a long-lasting, flawless complexion. There are different types of setting powders that you can pick from depending on your needs, as well as options between translucent powder or slightly tinted to match your skin tone. Types of Setting Powders: Loose powder Pressed powder Translucent powder Tinted powder Choosing the best form of setting powder is purely a matter of preference. Pressed powders are semi-solid, easy to use, and great for taking on the go. Loose powders are finer in consistency and don’t transport well – they’re messy! But they do offer great lightweight coverage and work well for those prone to oily skin or who prefer wearing liquid foundations. Setting powder also serves as the perfect weapon against excess oil buildup - hello, mid-day touchups! For those in search of a more sheer look, apply setting powder in place of foundation for lightweight, natural coverage.  5 Best Setting Powders Our makeup artist community has voted, and these are the five best setting powders, according to them: RCMA - No Color Powder Ben Nye - Neutral Set Danessa Myricks Beauty - Evolution Powder Laura Mercier - Translucent Loose Setting Powder Mehron - UltraFine Setting Powder   RCMA’s No Color Powder: Loved amongst celebrities and makeup artists, this beauty favorite sets foundation without changing the color. The formula delivers a smooth translucent powder veil without adding unwanted texture or creating a "caked on" look. This setting powder keeps shine at bay and disappears completely for an invisible hold.  Ben Nye’s Neutral Set: This colorless powder formula blends with every skin tone without diminishing the complexion’s natural glow. Ben Nye's only non-translucent powder that contains a bright white pigment is good for very fair shades. This setting powder controls perspiration for high-energy performers. Danessa Myricks Beauty’s Evolution Powder: This setting powder provides a silky smooth, invisible finish. This light-diffusing, weightless, translucent powder can be used over and under foundation. The product mimics perfect skin with professionally tested, vegan, and cruelty free ingredients. It’s also available in four tinted shades to match fair to deep skin tones. Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder: This cult classic blends seamlessly, setting makeup in place for long lasting results.  It’s also incredibly lightweight and offers a flawless, 16 hour mattifying finish you can count on. Mehron’s UltraFine Setting Powder: Finish off your look with this finely processed, clump-free setting powder with a built-in antiperspirant. Specially designed to retain the smoothness of your makeup, the product comes in a user-friendly, convenient "shaker" container.   How is Finishing Powder Different from Setting Powder? As the name suggests, finishing powders are designed for use after a makeup look is complete. While this product is not recommended for daily use, it’s a great option when you’ll be in front of bright lights and cameras.  Most commonly sold in loose form, finishing powders blur fine lines, conceal pores, and leave a flawless, camera ready finish. Blend the product well to avoid a dry, cakey appearance and also to eliminate white flashback on camera. 3 Most Popular Finishing Powders These top three finishing powders have been vetted by the pros to help you select the best options for all your makeup needs: Ben Nye – Banana Powder Mehron – Celebre Pro HD Loose Mineral Finishing Powder RCMA – Over Powder   Ben Nye’s Banana Powder: This silky-fine, mattifying translucent powder delivers a hint of color without casting a white glare in your photos. Available in four luxurious tints, this finishing powder offers a beautiful shade for every skin tone. Mehron’s Celebré Pro HD Loose Mineral Finishing Powder: This Mehron product is a luxurious matte finishing powder that comes in three versatile shades to perfectly complement every skin tone. Made of transparent French delaminated talc, it keeps your colors bright and true. This ultra-fine powder is made with a multi-mineral complex to promote skin’s vigor and moisturization, keeping skin soft and hydrated. RCMA’s Over Powder: This lightweight finishing powder adds a soft sheen effect. These powders are gorgeous when layered over blush or any of the high points of the face and perfect for achieving an ethereal effect all over the body. Dust it onto collarbones, shoulders, cheekbones, and the cupid's bow for a subtle, light-catching highlight.  Now that we’re all squared up with the differences between setting powders and finishing powders, you’re ready to get to work creating flawless makeup looks and setting and finishing them like a pro. Which finishing and setting powders do you think are the best? Let us know in the comments below, and be sure to tag us on Instagram in your completed looks.   About Camera Ready Cosmetics Camera Ready Cosmetics was founded in 2003 by a professional makeup artist. With over 20 years serving the pro community, Camera Ready Cosmetics prioritizes quality and value with the artist in mind.  Our team of experts understands what makeup essentials an artist needs.  

This Halloween season, we’re teaming up with talented makeup artists to bring you a series of exclusive SFX makeup tutorials every week through Halloween. In our fifth release of the series, PRO artist Kelly Tull re-creates a Creepy Glam Halloween Clown featuring a collection of products from Camera Ready Cosmetics that makes for the perfect clown makeup look for girls (or guys!). Follow along as Kelly walks you through each step of creating this clown makeup look with her makeup painting tutorial! SFX Clown Makeup Look Must-Haves Mehron30-Well Paradise Palette$129.95 RCMA MakeupNo Color Powder$14 These are the special effects makeup products she used to create her clown makeup look: Mehron Paradise Palette – $129.95 Ben Nye Studio Color Eye & Cheek Rainbow Palette – $58 RCMA No Color Powder – $14 NYX Born to Glow Liquid Illuminator– $7.50 Dose of Colors Liquid Matte Lipstick – Berry Me, $19 NYX Slim Lipliner Pencil – Currant, $5 Total Cost: $233.45 You can also get this clown makeup look for less! Use individual refill shades versus the full size palettes and choose a lip color you already have on hand: Camera Ready Gel Eye Liner - Black Out, $10.99 La Femme Blush Rouge REFILL - Flamingo Pink, $7.90 Mehron Paradise Cake Makeup REFILLS - Various Colors, $7.95 NYX Born to Glow Liquid Illuminator - Various Colors, $7.50 Total Cost: $34+ How to Apply This Clown Makeup Look in 8 Easy Steps - A Clown Makeup Tutorial Our eight-step glam-scary clown makeup tutorial will walk you through this perfect clown makeup look for girls or guys from foundation to the final shimmer so you can learn how to apply scary clown makeup for Halloween like a pro. Get ready; get set; SCARE! (But make it glam.)   Step 1: Foundation Step 2: Eyes and brows Step 3: Lips Step 4: Cheeks Step 5: Mouth Step 6: Finishing eye touches Step 7: Neck ruffle Step 8: Glow, baby!   Step 1: Set foundation in place. Kelly uses the RCMA No Color Powder to lock her foundation in place. This sets a flawless, full-coverage base for the rest of your clown makeup for Halloween application. Step 2: Create exaggerated brows and detailing around the eyes. Using a fine detail brush, dip into a black gel liner or aqua-paint to fill in your eyebrows. For the inward portion of your brows (facing the nose) extend lines outward and up towards the forehead. Using the same black makeup, create clown-like detailing above the brows and around the eye area. Follow the video above to watch how Kelly accomplishes this, or follow your own style to create your perfect clown makeup look for Halloween! While you're waiting for this clown makeup to dry, continue with steps 3 thru 5. Step 3: Line and fill-in your lips. Choose a dark purple or mauve color to line the full perimeter of your lips. When lining the lips, extend the corners of your mouth slightly outward for a wider, more exaggerated clown makeup lip effect. Find a similar liquid lipstick color in a matte finish to fill in your clown lips since clown makeup often features overdrawn lips. Step 4: Create bright pink clown cheeks. Choose a rosy or light pink powder blush color and apply in a circular motion to the apples of your cheeks. You'll be left with round, cartoonish, clown-like cheeks - which is essential for any great clown makeup look. Go back over the blush with a bright pink aqua-paint to really make your cheeks pop. Step 5: Create a cartoon clown makeup mouth. Dip into a brown face paint to draw a large, cartoonish outline of a mouth around your lips. Start just between the bottom of your nose and upper lip, drawing the line out towards the bottom of your cheeks and down towards your chin. Follow the video above to watch how Kelly completes this portion of her clown makeup look. Once you have your outline, fill-in the lines with a white face paint. Do not paint over your lipstick from the previous step. Step 6: Complete your clown makeup eye design. Now that your eyes have had time to dry, fill in the shapes you created earlier with the same black gel liner and finish off the look by gluing sequins or gems in certain parts of the eye design for a dramatic, glam effect. Go ahead and be creative! No two clown makeup looks are alike, so express yourself with unique shapes! Step 7: Paint a colorful neck ruffle to bring your clown makeup look to life. The iconic clown ruffle is a must to complete this clown makeup look! But no worries, you don't need to go buy one; just paint one! Choosing bright, vibrant cake makeup colors, created thing blocks of color from the top of the neck to the top of your chest, finishing them off in a pointed fashion. Alternate colors as you go until the full neck is filled in. Add white circles to the end of each pointed color line, and then outline everything in black (the circles and the individual color strips). You now have a bright collar that’s an excellent addition to your clown makeup for Halloween without any extra accessories. Step 8: Add some serious glow! Apply a shimmering body illuminator, like NYX Born to Glow Liquid Illuminator, to the shoulders and chest (just below your painted neck ruffle). Also, add it to the forehead and T-zone. This adds an extra element of glam! If you want to transform this clown makeup look into a scary clown makeup look, simply add some special effects blood. Visit our YouTube channel for more step-by-step SFX tutorials. A special thank you to artist Kelly Tull (@kellytull_) for bringing this Creepy-Glam Halloween Clown to life. Check out CRC's other SFX Tutorials: Comic Book Pop Art by Kelly Tull CATS with a Twist by Andie Piazza The Nun by Janet Cake Glam-Gore Witch by Rachel Quattlebaum We’re accepting your videos as part of our SFX tutorial series! Send submissions to marketing@crcmakeup.com for consideration. Need something specific to create your SFX Halloween looks or want to find other unique makeup products to embellish your clown makeup look? Shop Camera Ready’s extensive collection of top special effects brands here. Don’t see what you’re looking for? Contact our Customer Experience Team for a comparable alternative, or to see if we can order the exact product you need to create your perfect clown makeup for Halloween.

Special effects makeup isn’t reserved only for the Halloween lovers. Although, it’s this time of year that really gets us excited about the creative, endless possibilities in the world of SFX makeup. Whether you’re curious to know what the professionals are using, building your own SFX makeup kit, or simply have no idea what any of the special effects talk is all about, take a peek at our best SFX makeup products for Halloween.   10 Best SFX Makeup Products for Halloween: These bestsellers consistently make the list year after year, and for good reason – they’re best in class for their respective product categories. Add a few (or all) to your SFX makeup kit or at-home makeup collection, and be sure to tag us in your Halloween makeup creations on Instagram and Facebook!  Skin Illustrator On Set FX Palette Graftobian Stipple Sponge Ben Nye Magicake Aqua Paint Pros-Aide “Original” Adhesive Mehron Rigid Collodion Kryolan Professional Make-Up Eye Blood Ben Nye Clown White Ben Nye Fresh Scab Bdellium Tools SFX Brushes 1. Read all the way through to see our #1 bestselling SFX Halloween makeup product! 10: Skin Illustrator On Set FX Palette, $60.50 This compact, pocket-sized palette contains 10 of the most popular Halloween SFX makeup colors from Skin Illustrator’s line of pigments. Designed to mimic just about any injury or illness imaginable, this palette simulates burns, cuts, scrapes, scabs, bruises, and more. Each color must be activated with 99% alcohol or activator. Spray or dab the solvent onto the desired color, swirl for 30 seconds, and apply with a brush, sponge, or mascara wand.  Purchase Skin Illustrator On Set FX Palette 9: Graftobian Stipple Sponge, starting at $1 Meet one of the best SFX makeup tools there ever was! Graftobian’s classic stipple sponge is used for a variety of SFX makeup looks, like the five o’clock shadow and broken blood vessels. The charcoal-colored web matrix sponge allows for uneven, splotchy makeup application that’s so common in Halloween makeup creations, like demons, old-age, monsters, and more. Also available in a pack of 12 for cost savings. Purchase Graftobian Stipple Sponge 8: Ben Nye Magicake Aqua Paint, $8 These water-activated pigments by Ben Nye are smudge-proof and transfer-resistant once dry. Incredible for face or body art of any kind, especially Halloween SFX makeup looks, Magicake delivers intense color that will not fade. The opaque formula is not waterproof, so you must use a water-resistant setting spray to ensure long-lasting wear in conditions near water, humidity, or moisture. Purchase Ben Nye Magicake 7: Pros-Aide "Original" Adhesive, $18.20 If you’re looking for a non-irritating, heavy-duty adhesive for prosthetic application or other Halloween makeup needs, Pros-Aide stands out as one of our best SFX makeup staples. This water-based formula is often used for medical prosthetic applications, as well as by makeup artists for adhering appliances and other makeup components to the skin. It is safe to use on sensitive areas and boasts water-resistant, non-toxic properties. Purchase Pros-Aide “Original” Adhesive 6: Mehron Rigid Collodion (Scarring Liquid), $7.95 Develop realistic scar makeup effects with ease. Mehron’s clear solution wrinkles the skin as it dries to quickly develop a scarred look. Build dimension and deepen scars by building thin layers until you’ve reached the desired scar makeup effect. Because this product is so easy to use, it’s recommended for both seasoned artists and those new to SFX makeup. To remove the scar makeup, simply peel off. Purchase Mehron Rigid Collodion Shop SFX Makeup Bestsellers Pros-Aide"Original" Adhesive$18.20 MehronRigid Collodion$7.95 KryolanEye Blood$26.50 Shop All SFX Makeup 5: Kryolan Eye Blood, $26.50 Cry tears of *fake* blood! This gel-like formula delivers life-like bloody eyes and tears without impairing vision or irritating the eye. This Halloween SFX makeup is safe for use on sensitive eyes and for those who wear contact lenses. Discard product one month after first opening. Purchase Kryolan Professional Make-Up Eye Blood 4: Ben Nye Clown White, starting at $6 The preferred choice by artists worldwide, Clown White boasts an ultra-creamy texture and brilliant white finish for any drag, cosplay, or Halloween SFX makeup needs. The formula goes on smooth and opaque, so you don’t need a ton of product to achieve the desired look. For best results, apply a setting powder on top of the product to eliminate transfer and lock makeup in place. Purchase Ben Nye Clown White Makeup 3: Ben Nye Fresh Scab, starting at $10 Create natural-looking scabbed over wounds with ease! Fresh Scab by Ben Nye maintains a jelly-like consistency for realistic blood clotting effects. The naturally tinted, corn-syrup-based formula is peppermint flavored and safe to use in and around the mouth. This fake blood easily washes out of most fabrics and surfaces. Purchase Ben Nye Fresh Scab 2: Bdellium Tools SFX Brushes, starting at $10 These high-quality, eco-friendly SFX makeup brushes by Bdellium Tools were specifically manufactured to withstand strong dyes, solvents, and brush-cleaning solutions. Each brush is fabricated with sustainable bamboo handles and vegan synthetic bristles shaped in a variety of styles for flawless, reality-defying Halloween makeup looks. Purchase Bdellium Tools SFX Brushes 1: Ben Nye Nose & Scar Wax, starting at $7 Coming in at #1, our best SFX makeup can help you manipulate the appearance of real skin distortions – broken nose, witch’s chin, bullet holes, and more. The moldable yet firm scar makeup wax comes in three flesh-tone shades with a translucent finish. For best SFX makeup results, apply on top of a thin film of spirit gum adhesive and seal in place with a durable liquid latex. Purchase Ben Nye Nose & Scar Wax Which of these best SFX makeup products are you loving for Halloween makeup looks? Comment below with your favorites.  Need something specific to create your Halloween makeup looks? Shop Camera Ready’s extensive collection of the best SFX makeup brands. Don’t see the SFX makeup you’re looking for? Contact our Customer Experience Team for a comparable alternative or to see if we can order the exact product you need. About Camera Ready Cosmetics Camera Ready Cosmetics was founded in 2003 by Makeup Artist Mary Erickson. She dreamed of having a pro makeup showroom where artists could play with professional-grade products without the typical makeup store attitude. Today, our team of beauty industry veterans works together to curate the best quality products on the market. We partner with brands who respect the industry and formulate products for true working artists. You won’t find CRC in high-end malls, and we don't wear matching brush belts. If you want to play with products for a few hours and buy nothing, that's okay ... come in and play! Our store is your playground. 

This Halloween season, we’re teaming up with talented makeup artists across the United States to bring you a series of exclusive SFX makeup tutorials. In our fourth release of the series, PRO artist Rachel Quattlebaum re-creates a Glam vs Gore Scary Witch featuring a collection of products from Camera Ready Cosmetics. Follow along as Rachel walks you through each step of creating the look! Shop The Look MehronStage Blood$7.95 InglotAMC Eyeliner Gel #77$16 Mehron3-D Gel Effects$8.95 These are the products she used: Dose of Colors Blushing Berries Eyeshadow Palette – $34 Eye Kandy Glitter Sprinkles – Jawbreaker, $8.50 Inglot AMC Eyeliner Gel #77 – $24 Ardell Double Up Demi Wispies – $6.50 Mehron Paradise Makeup AQ – Amazon Green, $11.95 Mehron Paradise Makeup AQ – Dark Green, $11.95 Mehron Paradise Makeup AQ – White, $11.95 Stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick – Beso, $24 Mehron 3-D Gelatin Effects – 2oz Clear, $8.95 Mehron Stage Blood – 1oz Bright Arterial, $5.95 Total Cost: $147.75 Get the look for less! Use eye palettes, liners and a red lipstick you already have on hand, and purchase individual refill shades versus the full sizes: Mehron Paradise Glitter – Silver, $5.95 Ardell Double Up Demi Wispies – $6.50 Mehron Paradise Makeup REFILL – Amazon Green, $7.95 Mehron Paradise Makeup REFILL – Dark Green, $7.95 Mehron Paradise Makeup REFILL – White, $7.95 Mehron 3-D Gelatin Effects – 2oz Clear, $8.95 Mehron Stage Blood – 0.5oz Bright Arterial, $4.95 Total Cost: $50.20 Step 1: Start with an extravagant, shimmering smokey eye. Rachel creates a deep purple smokey eye using the Dose of Colors Blushing Berries palette. If you’re not a fan of purple, get creative with any palette you have on hand. Choose a bold color theme that will complement the green paint you’ll apply all over the face in future steps. Apply a silver eye glitter like, Jawbreaker from Eye Kandy, across the lid for an extra element of glam. Step 2: Add dramatic eyeliner and voluminous false lashes. Using a thin eyeliner brush, apply a thick black line of gel liner across the upper and lower lash lines. Wing it out past the corner of the eye. Finish your eye look with long faux lashes from any brand. You can use Ardell's Double Up Demi Wispies. Step 3: Begin creating the base of your green witch face. Before you apply green makeup all over your face, start creating a highlighted base. Using a Beautyblender or makeup sponge, apply Mehron Paradise White Makeup under the eyes, across the upper cheeks, down the sides of the nose, and on the chin. Step 4: Apply green makeup all over the face and neck. Starting with the Mehron Paradise Makeup in shade Amazon Green, use a brush to apply the green face paint over the areas under the eye painted in white. Cover the rest of your face in the same green shade using a wet makeup sponge. Extend the color down your neck. Step 5: Highlight and contour. For Highlighting: Go back over the undereye areas with white face paint and blend into the green. Do the same just above your lip (cupids bow) and on top of the chin. Your goal is to create highlighted areas to soften the harshness of the all-over green. For Contouring: Dip into the Mehron Dark Green shade and apply just under the cheekbones to create shaded definition. Step 6: Add bold color to your lips. Nothing says glam quite like a bold, red lip. Rachel uses Stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick in shade Beso to fill in her lips. Step 7: Begin the gorey detailing. Now the fun starts! Using a black gel liner and detail brush, create a curvy, jagged line down your face. Start at the top of your forehead and draw a line down your nose, off to the side and down along the bottom side of your face. This forms the foundation of your bloody gash. Once you’ve finished the outline, take a flat shadow brush and smudge the lines along the bottom of your face, as if you’re almost filling them in. Step 8: Create the appearance of dripping blood down your face. Using Mehron 3-D Gel, start at the top of the face and apply the gel formula along the outline you previously created. It’s okay if this is messy and not perfect; that’s the point. Add thicker chunks of gel in some spots, allowing the product to coagulate and clump together. Use your finger to move the gel around if it starts to run off your face. Before the product dries, but while it’s still wet and tacky, apply Mehron Stage Blood with a brush to the bottom part of your face where you smudged out the outline. Start by filling in the outlines and creating a dark red base. Take a small shadow brush and apply a liberal amount of Stage Blood (enough to wear it drips) and start applying on top of the red base you’ve just created. Allow the blood to drip and run down the face in parts. Continue this process everywhere you applied the 3-D Gel until the bloody gash is completed. Step 9: Add detail to your hair. For hair that’s parted towards the side of your face without the gash, make sure it’s curled and voluminous (the glam side) Apply baby powder or some other white loose powder and rub it in to create a gray, witch-like cast. For the other side of your hair (the gory side of your face), spritz water into your hair to create a wet, greasy look. Visit our YouTube channel for more step-by-step SFX tutorials. A special thank you to artist Rachel Quattlebaum (@rachel_suzanne_) for bringing this Glam Gore Witch vision to life. Check out CRC's other SFX Tutorials: Comic Book Pop Art by Kelly Tull CATS with a Twist by Andie Piazza The Nun by Janet Cake We’re accepting your videos as part of our SFX tutorial series! Send submissions to marketing@crcmakeup.com for consideration. Need something specific to create your SFX Halloween looks? Shop Camera Ready’s extensive collection of top special effects brands here. Don’t see what you’re looking for? Contact our Customer Experience Team for a comparable alternative, or to see if we can order the exact product you need. Mallory Hatten Beauty Editor / Camera Ready Cosmetics

As professional makeup artists, we know there are countless, often unpublicized, non-makeup products that support our work. Without these holy grail kit staples we couldn’t do our jobs. Well, we probably could…but it would be an added, unnecessary level of challenge. Since no two kits are alike, we asked YOU which non-makeup beauty essentials you relied on for flawless, effortless makeup application. From breath mints and phone chargers to fragrance sprays and can't-live-without tools, discover the non-makeup beauty essentials found inside every pro artist kit. BECCA Backlight Priming Filter Image: BECCA Cosmetics Scott Barnes Body Bling Image: Scott Barnes Embryolisse Miracle Cream  Image: Embryolisse SKIN PREP & SET Erica Ages, Georgia Makeup Artist “The BECCA Backlight Priming Filter is a staple in my kit because I can use it with a wide range of skin tones. It is great on skin by itself, but you can also use it under, mixed with, or on top of foundation to give a soft skin-like glow.” Gia McCloud, Dallas Makeup Artist “I have been using Ben Nye Final Seal for years on my clients, especially in the hot and humid summer weather. A few sprays will leave my applications locked in all day. This matte finishing spray also provides an awesome waterproof coat on eyeshadow looks, too!” Doris Torres-Collins, Florida Makeup Artist “Scott Barnes has been a staple in my pro kit for years, with his original launch years ago. Body Bling is my go-to when I work with models and fashion shows. Scott Barnes has been a friend, a mentor, and an inspiration, so it's great to have products I can use that are professional grade and red carpet ready!” Ana Sanchez-Burdette, Dallas Makeup Artist “Aside from actually training with Maurice Stein (the creator of Cinema Secrets), I love how smooth Cinema Secrets Primer makes foundation and/or correctors glide on. My applications are seamless and blend well. No “pooling” into the pores. It’s great for HD work.” Ruth M., Canadian Makeup Artist “I keep Danessa Myricks Beauty Oil in my kit because it makes everyone look like they have a flawless, glowing complexion, regardless of age or skin type. It absorbs and hydrates skin without an oily feel. It also mixes with foundation and moisturizer perfectly, particularly the Vision Cream Cover. The glow is natural, never overdone.” Samantha Navarro, Maryland Makeup Artist “Embryolisse Lait Crème is an absolute kit essential! Absorbs quickly, but provides a glowing, moisturized finish to the skin. Great for nearly all skin types and textures!” Kristen Bell & Dax Shepard wearing Skyn Iceland Hydro Cool Eye Gels Image: Skyn Iceland Mehron Barrier Spray Image: Mehron Cosmetics Patchology Sheet Masks Image: Patchology Katelynn Stuckey, Southern California Makeup Artist “Mehron Barrier Spray never leaves my kit because it not only creates a water proof/sweat proof barrier, but also is such a versatile product. I sometimes will mix with pigment to create a budge proof look. Weather it’s bridal makeup or special effects, it’s a must have!” Laura Cotterill, United Kingdom Makeup Artist “Sheet masks are my go-to product for hydration in my makeup kit. I love using masks that contain vitamin C for the ultimate skin drink to boost energy and hydration. Masks help hydrate before makeup application, and teamed with eye sheets, everything just looks flawless!” Keisha Kerr, Canadian Makeup Artist “Skyn Iceland’s cooling eye patches [are a must-have], and they double as shadow shields.” Heather Hawkins, North Carolina Makeup Artist “Sunscreen is ALWAYS a staple in my kit. It not only gives protection to keep all the bad UVs away, but it also can act as a primer, a moisturizer and give a youthful glow - depending on the sunscreen. I love multi-purpose products! Saves space & weight when carrying a mobile salon!” Conture Hair Remover Image: Conture Paw Palette In Action Image: Dani Rivera MUA Temptu Air PRO Image: Temptu TOOLS TO INVEST IN Candice Ennis, Virginia Makeup Artist “Color theory is a necessary fundamental for any make-up artist. It’s an essential technique when understood, but can be a challenge to master. I always keep a color wheel in my kit for custom undertone foundation mixing and creative body art color designs.” Gayla Gastler, Chicago Makeup Artist “[I always have] a small battery-operated facial trimmer to remove facial fuzz.” Naomi Blakeslee, California Makeup Artist "I use BeautyBlenders for a few reasons: 1) A damp beauty blender gives me a flawless dewy finish. 2) They make it easier to reach awkward areas that many brushes can’t reach, like around the nose and around the eyes. 3) Many people believe BeautyBlenders are for application only, however, they work just as good for removing makeup!" Kirsty Smit-Wingfield, Virginia Makeup Artist “I love the Paw Palettes! They are so unique, keep my kit looking neat and my products clean.” Amber Preston, Ohio Makeup Artist “I’m OBSESSED with the Temptu Airbrush Compressor for so many reasons: 1) It’s lightweight & compact, saving room in my kit. 2) It’s cordless! You won’t always have an outlet in the space you’re working. 3) Long battery life! It’s quiet, but mighty spraying capabilities include three different speed settings. It truly is the best compressor I’ve ever tried, and I’ve gone through many in my career.” Julie Fischer, Philadelphia Makeup Artist “Vueset has become invaluable in my kit. They help condense my products, and I can easily see what I have with their space-saving, transparent design. Since starting to use Vueset cases, I feel I work more quickly and efficiently on the job. I use them for necessities such as lipsticks, false eyelashes, prep products, disposables and more!” The Smithfolio Brush Case Image: Smith Cosmetics The Makeup Light In Action Image: Hanna Claire Linder MUA Tuscany Pro Makeup Chair Image: Tuscany Pro Chairs EQUIPMENT ESSENTIALS Estrella Lopez, Miami Makeup Artist “[I prefer using a] brushfolio to keep my brushes organized and easily accessible.” Glynnis Garcia, Nashville Makeup Artist “The Makeup Light is the only light anyone needs for makeup. I weigh 95 lbs. Do you really seeing me lugging a hair kit, a makeup kit, AND a ring light?! Heck no. I can attach it on a mirror, curtains, the tripod, on a chair, anywhere! TML all the way.” Dana Hall, New York Makeup Artist “Many times I would go on location, and there wasn’t a chair high enough. I would have to bend over, squat, or put myself in very awkward positions to work on a client's face. Now, no matter where I go for a makeup job, my Tuscany Pro Makeup Chair comes with me. The attached strap allows me to carry it on my shoulder, and off I go!” Jessi Pagel, Texas Makeup Artist “The Zuca Sport Artist Rolling Kit is my absolute favorite for multiple reasons:  1) I can alternate from each job to have exactly what I need when I need it.  2) The organizational options are endless! 3) It travels with ease and is so portable! For celebrity makeup/hair jobs, I like the Zuca Artist Backpack. It has the ability to serve as a hair kit alone.  An additional bonus is that it fits right on top of the rolling Zuca or you can wear it as a backpack.” Jilladair Carlson, Missouri Makeup Artist “Everybody is going through something. Getting your makeup done whether for a film, commercial or wedding can be stressful for clients, which can make my job more difficult. When someone sits in my chair, they get a "Soul" package to soothe their soul.  My Soul Kits include: 1) Hershey Kisses (Who doesn't need a kiss?) 2) Lifesaver Mints (We all feel better with fresh breath.) 3) A tea bag  4) An instant latte packet 5) A protein bar 6) An empty paper cup (They can drop all of their woes.) It never fails to put a smile on my client’s face, which helps them relax so we can both enjoy the ride.” Crazy Merman Brush Soap  Image: Crazy Merman Sigma Beauty Eye Primers  Image: Sigma Beauty Inglot Duraline Image: Inglot Cosmetics MISCELLANEOUS MUST-HAVES Pam Jean, Kentucky Makeup Artist Aromatherapy: “As a makeup artist I began using essential oils to help me when working. They provide a sense of calm and focus that is crucial to provide my clients with an energetic, balanced, yet calm experience. Take your bride from frazzled to dazzled with a travel diffuser, roller baller, neck wrap for the therapeutic benefits to elevate their bridal beauty experience.” Camera Ready Cosmetics Brush Cleaner: Crazy Merman's handmade brush soaps begin with a cruelty-free, vegan base of natural ingredients and essential oils. Their fusion of coconut and olive oil removes makeup from natural and synthetic brushes, leaving them luxuriously soft, clean and conditioned. Because of their lack of harsh chemicals, Crazy Merman soaps are also perfect for cleaning beauty sponges and other tools. Eloise Reed, United Kingdom Makeup Artist A Diary: “[Helps me] know exactly when and where my next client will be, and I can easily see where I have free time to book new clients.” Cameron Carson, Virginia Makeup Artist Duraline by Inglot: “A must-have for mixing into eyeshadows! Duraline helps with smudging liner on clients with hooded lids who have trouble with excessive creasing. Delivers no-crease, all-day wear!” Glynn Renee Bryant, New York Makeup Artist Phone Charger: “I’ve been on jobs where no one has a phone charger, so I carry an industrial size USB charging box for up to six phones at a time. I also carry an all-natural bug repellent. Some makeup trailers I’ve worked in have mosquitos. Basically, I try to be a walking CVS.” Camera Ready Cosmetics Eyeshadow Primer: The Smashbox Photo Finish 24-hr Shadow Primer keeps shadow in place, not all over your face for 24 hours. It’s a fade-proof, sheer, colorless formula that intensifies color and finish to ensure your eye looks survive workouts, nights out and big days. Felicia Yvette, Maryland Makeup Artist Magnifying Glass: “Sam Fine or Lottie Tomlinson (one of them!) taught me to keep a magnifying glass [in my kit] so I can always see those tiny little details, especially for beauty work.” Tracy Saunders, Seattle Makeup Artist Nail Polish: “Always carry nail polish. I’m surprised at how many clients’ nails look terrible!” Janet Richardson, International Makeup Artist Spatulas: “I must have my Graftobian Spatula! I use it for so many things, especially to scrape foundation to prevent cross contamination.” Philip B. Jet Set Hairspray Image: Philip B. Botanicals Winky Lux Matcha Blotting PaperImage: Sigma Beauty Bioderma Micellar Water Image: Bioderma USA ADDITIONAL KIT FAVORITES See more of the most mentioned kit essentials every artist uses: 99% Rubbing Alcohol Baby Wipes Bandaids Basic Hair Styling Tools Battery-powered Fan Blotting Paper Bobby Pins Body Lotion Brow Blade Business Cards Cotton Pads Cough Drops Deodorant Disposable Tools Double-sided Tape Dr. PAWPAW Balm Dry Shampoo Empty Palettes Exfoliating Serum Eye Depuffer Eye Drops Extension Cord Facial Hair Trimmer Facial Roller First Aid Kit Gum or Mints Hair Clips Hairspray Hand Sanitizer Hand Towels Handheld Mirror Heated Eyelash Curler Individual Lashes Lash Glue Lash Scissors Lint Roller Lip Applicators Lip Balm Makeup Remover Wipes Makeup Sanitizer Mascara Disposables Micellar Water Nail File Palette Knives Palette Paper Paper Towels Protein Power Bars Q-tips Razor Rose Water Safety Pins Sewing Kit Sharpeners (small & large) Sponges Straws Sugar Lip Scrub Tampons Tissues Tylenol Tweezers BONUS PRO TIP Francia Cohen, Special Effects Makeup Artist “Always have a clean kit!! Clean brushes. Clean makeup. Clean tools. Clean hands. Clean everything!” Which non-makeup beauty favorites do you keep stocked in your kit? Comment below!  About Camera Ready Cosmetics Camera Ready Cosmetics was founded in 2003 by Makeup Artist Mary Erickson. She dreamed of having a pro makeup showroom where artists could play with professional products without the typical makeup store attitude. Today, our team of beauty industry veterans work together to curate the best quality products on the market. We partner with brands who respect the industry and formulate products for true working artists. You won’t find CRC in high-end malls, and we don't wear matching brush belts. If you want to play with products for a few hours and buy nothing, that's okay...come in and play! Our store is your playground.

As makeup artists, we appreciate the beauty, creativity, and artistry behind tattoos, but concealing tattoos? That’s an art all on its own!  Whether you’re covering tattoos for a bride’s big day or transforming a client’s body into a tattoo-less character for film, tv, or modeling – cover up makeup for tattoos takes time, lots of practice, and high-quality makeup.  We surveyed our network of makeup artists to discover the tried-and-true tattoo covering makeup products that get the job done. If you’re in the market for easy, flawless tattoo cover up makeup, these pro-approved products are the best place to start!   Top 9 Brands of Makeup for Covering Up Tattoos: Ben Nye Cinema Secrets Danessa Myricks Beauty European Body Art Joe Blasco Kryolan Professional Make-Up Mehron Reel Creations Skin Illustrator CONCEALING TATTOOS WITH BEN NYE Gary Parson, Kim Dawson Agency - Dallas, TX “[Once I've applied color for tattoo coverage,] I stipple from a Ben Nye Essential HD Matte Foundation Palette to mimic skin tone and texture. I also use a dab of matte powder or cream blush and/or bronzer to replicate the color of the skin in a more realistic way." TATTOO COVERING WITH CINEMA SECRETS Pauline Griffiths-Gough, Former MUA - Chester, United Kingdom “When I was still doing makeup, I only ever used Cinema Secrets Foundation for tattoo coverage. It also doubled as flawless coverage for the face. I had clients come in with bad acne, saying nothing had ever covered their problem areas like that foundation did.” DANESSA MYRICKS BEAUTY MAKES GREAT MAKEUP FOR TATTOOS Mary Erickson, Former MUA & Owner of Camera Ready Cosmetics “The Vision Cream Cover is an all-in-one foundation & concealer that covers everything, including hyperpigmentation, discoloration, and, yes, tattoos. It’s formulated with texture-minimizing properties to create perfect complexion on camera and HD film.” EUROPEAN BODY ART COVER UP MAKEUP Chris Milone, Christopher Milone Makeup - New York City “I use EBA Airbrush for most large tattoo coverage. I barely need to color correct first because it's so opaque. It leaves a matte finish and holds up well on a long day of shooting.” Mandy Danielle Benton, TV and Film Makeup Artist - Dallas, TX “To knock out the tattoo, first use the Coral Adjustor mixed with their skin tone from EBA Endura, then go over it with their skin tone color. Because of the highly pigmented, alcohol-based formula, Endura has just the right amount of skin-like sheen and won’t transfer. Plus, I love EBA's skin tone colors! For darker skin, you often just need to use the skin tone match without mixing an adjustor.” Elizabeth Rist, Elizabeth Rist Makeup Artistry - Dallas, TX “My go-to for skin-like coverage is EBA’s alcohol-based Endura Airbrush line. It offers great coverage and doesn’t fade or transfer.” JOE BLASCO MAKEUP FOR COVERING TATTOOS Mary Erickson, Former MUA & Owner of Camera Ready Cosmetics “The Blue Neutralizer is easy to use and works like magic to cover dark tattoos. The entire Joe Blasco Tattoo Cover collection features a variety of shades, each named after the pigmentation it corrects. They also double as high-pigment, concentrated concealers that hide rosacea, acne, and other skin conditions.” KRYOLAN PROFESSIONAL MAKE-UP FOR CONCEALING TATTOOS Doria Miyata-Murphy, Doria Murphy Makeup - Boston Massachusetts “My go-to in general is Kryolan Professional Make-Up’s Dermacolor Camouflage Creme. It offers enough coverage to completely camouflage a tattoo without compromising the final desired effect -- the appearance of real, healthy skin!” TATTOO COVERING WITH MEHRON Brandy Page, Brandy Page Makeup Artistry - Richmond, VA “I love the Tattoo Covering Wheel because of the array of colors you can mix and match to get the perfect skin tone for your client. The creamy, waterproof formula covers even the darkest tattoos, birthmarks, and skin discolorations. And because it doesn't budge, it's also amazing for weddings!” REEL CREATIONS COVER UP MAKEUP FOR TATTOOS Missy Nyberg, Forbidden Makeup “Over the years, I’ve relied on the Flesh Tone Palette for tattoo coverage. I love that Reel Creations has the best color match of flesh tones compared to any other product. It’s always in my set bag. I set the makeup with RCMA No Color Powder, then spray twice with Reel Creations Blue Aqua Sealer.” CONCEALING TATTOOS WITH SKIN ILLUSTRATOR BY PPI Trevor Thompson, Trevor Thompson Makeup - Louisville, KY “For quick, durable on-set tattoo coverage, I use the Skin Illustrator Flesh Tone Palette with a splatter brush to lay down a nice base color, and then I go in with several different adjuster tones from the Skin Illustrator Complexion Palette to break up the coverage and blend out the edges. These are my tried-and-true go-to’s because they're highly pigmented, last all day on-set, and look phenomenal on camera!” Kat DeJesus, Kat D Makeup - Denver, CO “I love the Skin Illustrator On Set FX Palette. I use it for color correction before applying airbrush on top. I also use it to fleck the skin for a natural finish afterward. Being able to work in sheer layers and not have to worry about it moving all day makes this palette ideal for anything on location or when it needs to be completely waterproof.” Elizabeth Rist, Elizabeth Rist Makeup Artistry - Dallas, TX “The On Set Flesh Tone Palette is one of my top products for tattoo coverage. It makes neutralizing easy while offering great cover. It won’t melt with body heat or transfer. Great for everything from bridal to film!” Shop these tattoo cover up makeup favorites and more online and in-store at Camera Ready Cosmetics. Discounts apply for pro artist members. Which professional-grade makeup products do you rely on for concealing tattoos? Let us know in the comments below! About Camera Ready Cosmetics Camera Ready Cosmetics was founded in 2003 by makeup artist Mary Erickson. She dreamed of having a pro makeup showroom where artists could play with professional-grade products without the typical makeup store attitude. Today, our team of beauty industry veterans works together to curate the best quality products on the market. We partner with brands who respect the industry and formulate products for true working artists. You won’t find CRC in high-end malls, and we don't wear matching brush belts. If you want to play with products for a few hours and buy nothing, that's okay ... come in and play! Our store is your playground.

If you’ve fallen victim to procrastination and have no idea what character you’ll be for Halloween, Camera Ready is here to save the day with some great Halloween SFX makeup ideas! We’ve compiled 10 of the easiest, most affordable (all below $25) Halloween makeup looks you can pull off in a pinch. Shop these Halloween makeup looks below, and be sure to place orders before the shipping deadlines for guaranteed delivery. Happy Halloween! Top 10 Easy and Affordable Makeup Looks for Halloween: “Walking Dead” Zombie  Wicked Witch of the West Glam Skeleton Pop Art Character Cruella De Vil Wednesday Addams Creepy Doll Old Lady Bloody Tears Queen Maleficent   Makeup & Photo: @hellojuliagraf 1) “WALKING DEAD” ZOMBIE HALLOWEEN MAKEUP Look Cost: $23.49 You only need two products to create this popular zombie Halloween makeup look – a cream makeup color wheel and fake blood. We suggest the Narrative Cosmetics 6 Color Bruise Wheel and Ben Nye Dark Blood. The only other items you’ll need to complete this women’s or men’s Halloween makeup look are eyeliner and mascara, which you probably already have in your makeup bag. Using a makeup sponge, Beautyblender, or your fingers, follow this zombie Halloween makeup look video tutorial for detailed instructions on creating a convincing zombie.   Makeup & Photo: @namglam 2) EASY WICKED WITCH OF THE WEST MAKEUP LOOK FOR HALLOWEEN Cost: $24 Three products, plus a few staples already in your makeup bag, are all you need to create this iconic movie villain.  Start with Ben Nye Creme Color in Green and apply all over the face and neck. Use the same product in White to highlight the under eyes, forehead, and cheekbones, and use Black to contour and define the cheekbones. To finish the look, pull out your favorite smoky eye palette, eyeliner and mascara to define your eyes. Use eyeliner to create small black dots all over the face, and a highlight to accentuate the cheekbones if desired.    Makeup & Photo: @briannafoxmakeup 3) GLAM SKELETON HALLOWEEN MAKEUP LOOK Cost: $23.90 Skeletons are a go-to Halloween costume every year, but what about turning up the glam with this Halloween makeup look? Transform this classic, haunting look with voluminous hair and sultry smoky eye makeup for Halloween. With just three products for under $25 total, this easy makeup for Halloween will help you turn the expected into a head-turning creation. As a bonus, this SFX makeup idea is great as both a women’s or men’s Halloween makeup look. To start, you’ll need Ben Nye's Creme Colors in Black and White as well as La Femme Blush Rouge in shade Magenta. The first step in this look is to apply the base of your Halloween makeup as you normally would – moisturizer, concealer, foundation. Use the Ben Nye Creme Color in Black to draw your toothy grin and to outline sunken cheekbones. Mix with some of the Ben Nye Creme Color in White to fill and shade the sunken cheeks and to fill in the teeth you’ve outlined. Apply La Femme Magenta around the outer lines of the teeth and use a shadow brush to smudge and blend the color. Once you’ve completed those steps, use an eyeshadow palette you already own to create an overly dramatic smoky eye makeup for Halloween and finish with heavy black eyeliner and mascara (which you are sure to already own!). Get inspired with this step-by-step video tutorial, and create a Halloween makeup look that’s all your own.   Makeup & Photo: @trulymakeup_23 4) POP ART CHARACTER HALLOWEEN MAKEUP LOOK Cost: $23.50 As one of the most Googled Halloween makeup tutorials, this is the perfect last-minute, easy face makeup for Halloween that requires very minimal products.  Use a black Halloween eyeliner you already have to line the lips, cupid’s bow, bridge of the nose, and cheekbones. You can even draw tears or other design elements that you’ll later fill in. Apply the Ben Nye Creme Color in Yellow across the eyelid before emphasizing the lash lines with your favorite black liner – a go-to eye makeup for Halloween. Go across the lower lash line with the NYX Jumbo Eye Pencil in Milk for a more dramatic eye makeup Halloween look, and then apply several coats of any black mascara. Use the NYX Jumbo Eye Pencil in Milk to apply small dots all over the face. Finish this amazing makeup for Halloween with a bright red lipstick, like Ben Nye's Classic Lip Color in True Red. Pop art Halloween makeup is all about creativity, so ditch the tutorial this time around and express yourself however you choose!   Makeup & Photo: @nicoleguerriero 5) CRUELLA DE VIL MAKEUP LOOK FOR HALLOWEEN Cost: $25 She’s over the top. She’s evil. She’s Cruella De Vil – the woman all Disney fans love to hate. The beauty of this Halloween makeup look is that you only need a few additional products than you already have to create this character: Ben Nye Sparklers Loose Glitter in Opal Ice and Ben Nye Character Wheel in Red White & Black.  We love this Halloween makeup for Cruella De Vil tutorial because it shows two different options: glam Cruella and zombie Cruella. Take away a few SFX makeup ideas and pointers and put your own twist on this iconic Disney villain. Note: You can rock this makeup for Cruella De Vil without a costume, but you’ll probably want a wig to finish off the final Halloween makeup look. You can find one at most Halloween costume stores.   Makeup & Photo: @makeupbymaritsa   6) WEDNESDAY ADDAMS MAKEUP LOOK FOR HALLOWEEN Cost: $23.85 “The Addams Family” captivated TV audiences in the 1960s before making its feature film debut in 1991. And even after all this time, the family’s fan base hasn’t wavered. Known for her signature pigtail braids and ghostly pale face, Wednesday Addams is a popular Halloween costume every year. All you really need to recreate this Halloween makeup look is a contour palette, a great pinky-nude lip color, like NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream in shade Stockholm, and, for a perfect Wednesday Addams Halloween eyeshadow look, La Femme Pressed Eyeshadow in White. You’ll also want black hair paint if you don’t already have dark hair. We recommend Mehron Liquid Makeup for Face, Body, and Hair. There are tons of online Wednesday Addams Halloween makeup look tutorials you can watch, but the goal here is to create a very pale face with defined cheekbones and intense smoky eye makeup for Halloween. The black braided pigtails really make the look, so don’t forget that key element!   Makeup & Photo: @madokeki 7) CREEPY DOLL HALLOWEEN MAKEUP LOOK Cost: $22.76 Nothing is more terrifying than the haunting face of a possessed doll in a horror film. Turn yourself into the object of nightmares in just a few quick steps with this easy face makeup for Halloween idea. For this creepy doll Halloween makeup look, apply your base makeup as you normally would, then use an eyeshadow palette of your choice to create an overly exaggerated, smoky eye makeup for Halloween. Apply NYX Jumbo Eye Pencil in Milk along the lower lash line, making sure to draw the Halloween eyeliner out below the lash line to make the eyes appear larger. Use any black eyeliner to draw a fake lash line below the white you just applied. Finish the Halloween eye makeup with falsies - we love Ardell Studio Effects Wispies. Draw vertical Halloween eyeliner lines in black from the corners of the mouth to the bottom of the chin, and then apply fake freckles around the nose and inner cheek area. Finish the lips with Jason Wu Beauty Honey Fluff Lip Cream in Perfect Bloom or another hot pink lip color. The final step in this creepy doll Halloween makeup look is to create the appearance of really rosy, circular cheeks. Jason Wu Beauty's Honey Fluff Lip Cream is perfect because double as blush for the perfect doll look. And there you go! Creepy doll makeup for Halloween that’s sure to spook. You could even use this SFX makeup idea to create your own matching men’s Halloween makeup look for a creepy couple costume.  Makeup & Photo: @elojodelasgrayas 8) OLD LADY MAKEUP LOOK FOR HALLOWEEN Cost: $22 With this easy makeup look for Halloween, you can create the older version of yourself with just three products: Ben Nye Liquid Latex, Ben Nye Liquid Hair Color in Silver Grey, and Ben Nye Creme Character Base in Old Character. To get started on this Halloween makeup, apply your foundation and concealer normally. Use a light brown eyeshadow to line the lower lash line and inner corner of the eye. Then apply liquid latex in places where you want the skin to have a wrinkly, sagging texture. You may have to use a popsicle stick or SFX spatula to move the latex around as it dries to create the exact old lady Halloween makeup look you want. Create age spots around the face with Ben Nye's Character Base in Old Character. Then finish the makeup with a bright red lipstick. To complete your Halloween makeup look, apply Ben Nye Liquid Hair Color in Silver Grey. Create a funny couples costume when you apply these SFX makeup ideas to your partner for a geriatric men’s Halloween makeup style he’ll be dying to try.   Makeup & Photo: @hailiebarber 9) BLOODY TEARS HALLOWEEN EYE MAKEUP Cost: $26.50  This is probably the easiest Halloween makeup look to create. You only need one product: Kryolan Professional Make-Up Eye Blood in Red. Apply a full face of makeup however you desire. For a killer Halloween eyeshadow look, we love a sultry smoky eye. Complement the eyes with a dark lip color to turn up the drama. Finish the Halloween eye makeup with the Kryolan Eye Blood. You’ll want to apply it around the lower lash line and allow it to drip down your face while drying. For a men’s Halloween makeup look with bloody tears, you can turn up the glam or skip the full face and opt for just the Eye Blood. This easy makeup look for Halloween is so simple that no tutorials are needed! Makeup & Photo: @promisetamang 10) QUEEN MALEFICENT HALLOWEEN MAKEUP LOOK Cost: $18.50 This infamous Disney villain is one of the most Googled Halloween makeup tutorial. We did a step-by-step makeup tutorial for this simple Halloween makeup look. Check it out! We used more than $25 worth of products for that specific tutorial, but you can achieve similar makeup for Halloween with just a great red lipstick like Ben Nye's Classic Lip Color in True Red and a sultry green eyeshadow like Ben Nye Eyeshadow Refill in Shamrock.   Don’t forget to tag us in your Halloween makeup creations on Instagram using the hashtag #CRCsfxmakeup. For more Halloween makeup looks or SFX makeup ideas like these, visit our blog! About Camera Ready Cosmetics Camera Ready Cosmetics was founded in 2003 by pro makeup artist Mary Erickson. An industry veteran for more than 30 years, Mary knows quality and value and understands what an artist needs. 

Rot and decay, bleeding gums, a toothless grin. Transform your mouth into a foul, repulsive creation this Halloween with these go-to products loved by SFX artists everywhere. We surveyed our community of pro makeup artists to discover which FX teeth products they can’t (and won’t) live without. Keep reading to see which five products topped our list, learn how to use them and click the links below to easily add one (or all) to your kit. Photo: Tiffany Kyees / Makeup: Mike Mekash and Eryn Krueger Mekash / Inspired By: Rick Baker PPI Necessary Evil Mouth FX These temporary tooth colors were designed to safely and effectively transform the inside of your mouth. Available in eight colors, Mouth FX contains a sweet vanilla-mint flavor that is made entirely of FDA food grade ingredients that are vegan, gluten-free, peanut-free, sugar-free and cruelty-free. Added bonus: it removes easily by simply brushing your teeth. Don’t use if you plan on eating or drinking immediately after application, as the product will wear off. CRC customer Christina B. rated the product five stars, saying, “This product is easy to use and fantastic!” Photo: Ben Nye Makeup / Makeup: Thomas Surprenant Ben Nye Tooth Color   Create a grotesque, long-lasting smile without staining or damaging your teeth. Apply Ben Nye Tooth Color in Black for instantly chipped teeth, or brush on Nicotine, Decay or Zombie Rot for a repulsive, realistic look. Temporarily brighten your smile with the color White. Apply to dry teeth and allow to dry; lasts for hours! May be reapplied as needed. To remove, simply use a cotton swab soaked in alcohol or brush off with toothpaste. This product is safe to use on denture material. CRC customer Nina A. rated the product five stars, saying, “From complete blackouts to decay, whatever I need to create on set, this stuff is the best.” Photo & Makeup: Kristan Osoria Mehron Tooth FX   Add the finishing touches to your grotesque look with Mehron’s Tooth FX , available in six colors. In just a few minutes, create a smoker's mouth, a gangster's gold tooth, a bloody grin, spinach in your teeth, or a chipped smile. A little bit goes a long way with this product, and each shade comes with instructions for easy application and removal.  CRC customer Pablo D. rated the product five stars, saying, “Amazing product. If you dry your teeth and then apply the product, it lasts a long time. I even ate after applying, LOL!” Photo & Makeup: Craig Lindberg EBA Venom Tooth Palette Available in two color collections (SFX and Decay), create temporary, waterproof mouth creations that are sure to scare. The special bonding agent used in the Venom Tooth Palettes is similar to the resin used in temporary dental adhesives, providing temporary adhesion of color to the teeth that dries instantly. All Venom tooth colors have been stain tested on regular teeth, as well as different veneers and crown materials. Color removes easily with toothpaste and a toothbrush. CRC customer Christophe G. rated the product five stars, saying, “Very satisfied! I own several of the EBA palettes and have been a big fan of them.” Photo & Makeup: Kryolan Professional Makeup Kryolan Tooth Enamel Ideal for theatrical and SFX makeup, Kryolan Tooth Enamel is a go-to when creating rotten teeth, a toothless smile, a zombie-esque grin and many other looks. Available in four colors, each bottle comes with a brush for easy application. Thoroughly dry the tooth before application, and let it dry before closing your mouth. This product is easily removed with toothpaste or alcohol. CRC customer Sandra A. rated the product five stars, saying, “Just what I needed. Easy to apply and lasts a very long time!” Shop The Products All the products mentioned in this article are conveniently linked down below! PPI Mouth FX Ben Nye Tooth Color Mehron Tooth FX European Body Art Venom Tooth Palette Kryolan Tooth Enamel Stock Up On SFX Makeup A curated selection of the best special effects makeup, all in one place? That’s the beauty of shopping with Camera Ready Cosmetics!  Whether you’re new to SFX makeup or an experienced guru, our customer service team is prepared to help stock your kit with the products you want and need. If we don’t have what you’re looking for, we have a fabulous alternative – just ask us! Don’t forget to tag us in your SFX makeup creations on Instagram using the hashtag #CRCsfxmakeup. For more articles like this one, visit our blog . About Camera Ready Cosmetics Camera Ready Cosmetics was founded in 2003 by pro makeup artist Mary Erickson. An industry veteran for more than 30 years, Mary knows quality and value and understands what an artist needs. Mary is the buyer for Camera Ready Cosmetics and chooses only what she would use on set.

Makeup artists ask us all the time which foundations we recommend, especially when it comes to choosing a pre-filled palette. Investing hard-earned cash into a product you’ve never tried is scary, and we totally understand. So instead of taking our word for it, we surveyed our trusted community of Pro Makeup Artists to determine which holy grail foundation sets they always have in their kits. We received tons of feedback from artists of all experience levels and backgrounds, but there were five foundation sets that consistently came up again and again. Uncover our customers’ favorites and consider adding one (or all) of these top-rated products to your professional makeup kit! Maqpro 6-Color Fard Creme Palette With color packed to the punch, the Maqpro Fard Creme Palette affords you the luxury of having twice the color for a fraction of the price. The ultimate space-saver for your makeup kit, the compact palette comes in eight shade range variations with six creamy foundation shades in each. The highly-pigmented, long-lasting formula is easy to blend for a perfect color match. Camera Ready customer Aysheh S. says, “I have used this product for about six years. It works great on people of all skin tones, especially those who have oily skin (once you set with powder.) It wears well in all environments.” RCMA VK Palette This professional, highly-pigmented and blendable cream-based formula has no perfumes, mineral oils or lanolin, making it an ideal choice for photography, film and anywhere else HD quality is needed. With a finish that feels light enough for everyday wear, the RCMA VK Palette is a favorite for those who seek a versatile all-in-one foundation set that lasts all day without feeling heavy on the client’s face.  Once you’ve run out of a color, you can purchase Pro Palette Replaceable Godets to customize your palette for life. Considered a top choice by professionals worldwide, the VK Palette is a staple in many artist kits. Camera Ready customer Alexandra B. says, “I absolutely love the RCMA VK Palette. I first bought this for my freelance kit, and now I use it on all my clients (and even myself!) It's my go-to foundation for a natural finish look .” Cinema Secrets 5-IN-1 Pro Palette Available in six universal shade ranges, these industry-coveted, silicone-based foundation palettes provide expert-level customization to match any skin tone with effortless ease. You can also use the 5-IN-1 PRO Palettes to color correct, contour and highlight. The sheer-to-full coverage leaves a natural matte finish, and the water-resistant, long-wearing formula is suitable for even the most sensitive skin.  Camera Ready customer Melanie B. says, “As a pro, I've been using Cinema Secrets from the time I began building my kit. These give great coverage while still looking like skin!”  Graftobian Hi-Def Super Palette The High-Def Glamour Crème Super Palettes are artist-friendly and convenient for travel. Available in three different shade range options, each of these 18-shade palettes include a combination of top-selling Graftobian crème foundations that are easily blendable and perfect for all skin types. Achieve full coverage with a finished look that still appears natural. The gorgeous, creamy foundations are super easy to work with and make the skin look like velvet. It’s a great product for any new makeup artist to add to their collection and continues to be a bestselling option for veteran Pros worldwide. Camera Ready customer Carmen A. says, “I love this palette because it has so many different shades that work for almost every skin tone. The coverage is amazing and it completely hides any skin imperfections so it's definitely worth the price. I use it on myself and my clients. It lasts all day, and a little goes a long way!” Ben Nye HD Matte Palette Bring out the best in any skin tone with Ben Nye's Essential HD Matte Foundation Palette! Twelve shades deliver just the right amount of coverage, packaged neatly in a portable tin casing. At just $60, you’ll get HD quality without the HD price. (Plus, you can purchase refills of each color for just $8!)  Each shade is a versatile blend of high pigmentation and natural-looking color that leaves the skin with a flawless, smooth texture. This palette is ideal for combination to oily skin types.  Camera Ready customer Lats A. says, “I have really oily skin and have tried everything. This makeup palette is a must for MUAs! Your clients will love you.” Shop The Foundation Palettes Try one of these artist-selected foundation palettes for yourself! All products mentioned in this article are linked down below. 1) Maqpro Fard Creme Palette  2) RCMA VK Palette 3) Cinema Secrets Ultimate 5-IN-1 PRO Palette 4) Graftobian HiDef Glamour Creme Super Palette 5) Ben Nye Essential HD Matte Palette Visit our blog for more articles like this one. Interested in contributing content to our website? Email your topic suggestions for consideration. About Camera Ready Cosmetics Camera Ready Cosmetics was founded in 2003 by pro makeup artist Mary Erickson. An industry veteran for more than 30 years, Mary knows quality and value and understands what an artist needs. Mary is the buyer for Camera Ready Cosmetics and chooses only what she would use on set. If you don’t find the product you’re looking for on our site, that’s because we have something better. Just ask us!

Halloween is almost here. Can you believe it?! We know having a stand-out makeup look on this most ghoulish of days is a top priority. Halloween makeup kits are a great, cost-effective way to transform your face into the scary or sultry makeup looks of your dreams. We’ve narrowed down our ten best-selling makeup kits below so you can get a head start on the perfect Halloween look. Ben Nye Old Age Kit Grandma, is that you?! Transform into an elderly version of yourself this Halloween with Ben Nye’s Old Age Kit. For just $25, the kit comes with full coverage foundation, a black pencil, cream makeup to create skin spots and wrinkles, silver grey hair color and tools to create classic aging techniques (wedges, a stippling sponge, and a makeup brush). It also comes with detailed instructions for both males and females to create a successful disguise. Shop the Ben Nye Old Age Kit Graftobian Severe Trauma Kit What do back alley brawls, a car crash and a nasty tumble down the stairs have in common? Broken noses, black eyes, cuts, and bruises. The Severe Trauma Kit comes with all the makeup you need to create realistic FX-simulated looks. The $27 kit comes with six creme color wheels, one foundation, five contouring and accent shades, face powder, modeling wax, spirit gum, stage blood, a makeup brush, stipple sponge, foam wedges, and step-by-step instructions. Shop the Graftobian Severe Trauma Kit  Mehron Zombie Professional Character Kit Channel all the Walking Dead vibes this Halloween with Mehron’s Zombie Professional Character Makeup Kit. At just under $20, you’ll get a collection of professional-grade performance makeup similar to what is used on set of the cult favorite TV show. The kit includes step-by-step instructions, Mehron’s 5-Color Zombie Makeup Palette, Zombie Flesh Liquid Latex, Colorset Powder, Extra Flesh Wax, Stage Blood, Fixiative "A", Stageline makeup brush, and non-latex foam wedge. Shop the Mehron Zombie Professional Character Kit Ben Nye Cat/Lion Kit An easy Halloween go-to look, transform into the purr-fect feline this October with Ben Nye’s Cat/Lion Kit. The affordable kit (just $25) comes with cat-colored foundation, a four-color cat palette, a black pencil, a flat brush, sponge applicators, quick cleanse remover and directions. The kit is good for up to six applications. Shop the Ben Nye Cat/Lion Kit Kryolan The Sugar Skull Kit This amazing Halloween look is as beautiful as it is haunting. Follow the included instructions to quickly and easily create an elaborate Sugar Skull that looks as if you spent hours in front of the mirror. For under $70 you’ll get three Aquacolors, Supracolor Clown White, Body Jewels, 2 Multi Gel Glitters, Translucent Powder, one powder puff, one round makeup sponge, and two makeup brushes. Shop the Kryolan Sugar Skull Kit Ben Nye Vampire Kit The simplicity of transforming into a ghastly vampire has never been easier than with Ben Nye’s Vampire/Vampiress Kit. In fact, this $25 kit has been the brand’s bestselling Halloween makeup kit for nearly two decades. Included in the kit are one vampire foundation, a four-color vampire palette, black pencil, Stage Blood, fangs, a flat brush, sponge applicators, and directions. You’ll get four to six applications out of this one kit, so team up with friends to create a gang of terrifying characters. Shop the Ben Nye Vampire Kit Kryolan Ice Effects Kit Whether you’re creating a Game of Thrones character or a frozen nomad, the Kryolan Ice Effects Kit gives you all the tools you need to create snow and frost effects of any kind. For pro artists, this kit holds up for stage, show and 4K/8K technology. Components of this $56.50 kit include small and large ice crystals, snow, GF-QAT- N Soft Gel. Use the gel to fix the ice crystals in place. Shop the Kryolan Ice Effects Kit  Ben Nye Witch Makeup Kit Cast a spell on your face with Ben Nye’s popular Witch Makeup Kit. The creme-based makeup provided in this $25 kit allows you to easily create the appearance of textured, wrinkly skin that will haunt passerby throughout Halloween night. Included in the kit are one witch foundation, a four-color witch palette, a black pencil, a flat brush, sponge applicators, quick cleanse remover, and step-by-step instructions. Use this kit up to six times. Shop the Ben Nye Witch Makeup Kit Mehron Skeleton Character Kit Transform into the ultimate skeleton with Mehron's Skeleton Character Kit. For under $20 you’ll get every product needed to create this amazing Halloween look. It also comes with a visual step-by-step guide explaining the techniques and products in details. The kit includes a Highly pigmented Tri-Color Makeup Palette, a Full Size Pencil Liner, Colorset Powder, a Powder Puff, a Non-Latex Foam Wedge, Makeup Remover Wipe and a Black Hood. Shop the Mehron Skeleton Character Kit Kryolan Fairy Girl Kit Create a fantastical fairy makeup look for $75 using Kryolan’s Fairy Girl Kit. The shimmery, effervescent products will have heads turning all night long. The kit includes one Spirit Gum, a pair of small latex Sprite ears, one multi-gel, one pack of Stargirl eyelashes, one lash adhesive, and two Aquacolors. Shop the Kryolan Fairy Girl Kit Shop The Makeup Kits We conveniently linked all of the makeup kits mentioned in this article down below. Get a head start on Halloween! 1) Shop the Ben Nye Old Age Kit 2) Shop the Graftobian Severe Trauma Kit 3) Shop the Mehron Zombie Premium Character Kit 4) Shop the Ben Nye Cat/Lion Kit 5) Shop the Kryolan Sugar Skull Kit 6) Shop the Ben Nye Vampire Kit 7) Shop the Kryolan Ice Effects Kit 8) Shop the Ben Nye Witch Makeup Kit 9) Shop the Mehron Skeleton Character Kit 10) Shop the Kryolan Fairy Girl Kit Tag us in your Halloween makeup creations on Instagram for a chance to be reposted, and visit our blog for more articles like this one! Interested in contributing content to our website? Email your topic suggestions for consideration! About Camera Ready Cosmetics Camera Ready Cosmetics was founded in 2003 by pro makeup artist Mary Erickson. An industry veteran for more than 30 years, Mary knows quality and value and understands what an artist needs. Mary is the buyer for Camera Ready Cosmetics and chooses only what she would use on set. If you don’t find the product you’re looking for on our site, that’s because we have something better. Just ask us!

As any professional makeup artist will tell you, building a fully-stocked kit can get EXPENSIVE! Special effects makeup artistry is no different. Creating the detailed characters that haunt and inspire your social media feeds may take 10, 15, 20 (sometimes more!) different products to complete. While the best kits take years of trial and error to pull together, there are staple products you may start with to build a well-equipped SFX makeup kit for under $300. (Yes, it’s possible!) We asked our network of pro-SFX artists which products have earned a permanent spot in their kits. Keep reading for the pro-approved must-haves that made the cut. Ben Nye Thick Blood Price: A 6 oz. container costs you $22, but smaller and larger sizes are available at varying price points. It may look like strawberry jelly, but this corn-syrup based gel will quickly become your go-to for creating dried abrasions, wounds and road rash effects. The easy-to-apply gel has a nice, firm texture that does not drip or dry. Camera Ready customer Erin K. says, “This is my one and only holy grail fake blood product.” While it easily washes off the skin, it’s worth noting this product may not easily remove from all fabrics or surfaces. We suggest a quick spot test before use. Shop Ben Nye Thick Blood Ben Nye Nose and Scar Wax Price: An 8oz. container costs you $18, but smaller and larger sizes are available at varying price points. This handy jar of translucent wax imitates the appearance of real skin to create all sorts of fleshy distortions - a broken nose, a witch’s chin, even bullet holes. Whatever your creative desires, this product has your back. The formula is moldable with a medium firm hold. Camera Ready customer Carolyn K. says, “After trying many other brands of scar wax, nothing compares to Ben Nye.” For maximum durability, set on top of Ben Nye Spirit Gum Adhesive and seal with Ben Nye Liquid Latex (a staple also included on this list). Shop Ben Nye Nose and Scar Wax 3rd Degree Silicone Modeling Compound Price: A 2 oz. container costs you $24, or you can get the 4 oz. size for $40. This extremely versatile product is a triple threat - resurfaces the skin, creates special effects and pours into molds. Use the compound to create realistic wounds, scars and prosthetics, or fill uneven texture to smooth the skin. Camera Ready customer Rachael S. says, “This is the best to work with! I love how smooth the edges blend into the skin. This is easier for me to mold than liquid latex and tissue paper.” Pro MUA hack: Purchase both sizes and refill the smaller jar for transporting in your kit. Shop 3rd Degree Silicone Modeling Compound Ben Nye Final Seal Price: A 1 oz. spray bottle costs you $7.20, and larger sizes are available at varying price points. Lock your SFX makeup creations in place with this magical misting spray. A few spritzes of this matte sealant spray will ensure your final look is smudge-proof and water-resistant through hours of performing, entertaining or braving harsh weather conditions. It even withstands heavy perspiration! Camera Ready customer Jeanita H. says, “My makeup doesn’t move all day. I fell asleep for two hours, woke up, and my makeup was still in place. Cried in church, makeup didn’t streak. Sweated outside, makeup did not move.” Shop Ben Nye Final Seal Ben Nye Liquid Latex Price: An 8 oz. container costs you $20, but smaller and larger sizes are available at varying price points. An absolute must for any special effects kit, this multi-purpose liquid latex - also called “slip rubber” - will get the job done every time. Seal modeling wax, create 3D appliances in a slush mold, or apply directly to the skin for aged, blister and wound effects. Camera Ready customer Carissa C. says, “I recently bought the latex, and I’m in love with it. It’s so good for the price and works great to create some freaky looks!” Bonus use: This liquid adhesive is excellent for molding prosthetic appliances and sealing Ben Nye Nose and Scar Wax. Shop Ben Nye Liquid Latex Kryolan Supracolor Price: Choose from 14 shade options at just $9.80 each. The outstanding coverage qualities of these cream-based makeup has made it an SFX must-have for decades. Choose from a variety of skin tone shades, as well as clear, white or gray, to create bright color effects or to effortlessly shade and highlight. Camera Ready customer Sarah B. Says, “You can’t get better than the Kryolan Supracolor foundation, in terms of finding a perfect color match. It stands up to any conditions (heat, humidity, stage lights) and provides full coverage that lasts all day.” Some artists also use this product as a normal, everyday foundation to conceal skin conditions, discolorations and textured skin. Its versatility will keep you reaching for it, no matter the occasion. Shop Kryolan Supracolor Mehron Pro Color Ring - Bruise Price: $13.95 The affordable, extremely handy compact includes every shade you need to create fresh or healing bruises. A must-have in any SFX kit, the wheel-shaped container includes green, yellow, light brown, dark brown and black shades that easily smudge and blend to create a realistic bruised look. Camera Ready customer Dana G. Says, “It’s perfect! I love Mehron’s cream makeup, and it blends very well.” The long-lasting formula won’t fade or melt away even after hours of wear. Shop Mehron Pro Color Ring Reel Creations Fleshtone Palette Price: $80 This palette is the perfect tool to conceal tattoos, bruises, scars and more. Activate with Reel Developer or 99% Isopropyl Alcohol with just a few drops, and mix with a brush or sponge until you reach the desired effect. Camera Ready customer Luke C. Says, “I love this palette! It lasted all night long, and it was very easy to use. This is a must-have in your SFX kit!” It’s worth noting the product takes a while to activate once you’ve applied the alcohol, but once the product works up, the colors turn opaque. Mix darker pigments with more alcohol to lighten them. Make lighter colors more pigmented by continually mixing your brush or sponge in the activated product until the desired pigment is reached. Shop Reel Creations Fleshtone Palette Skin Illustrator FX Palette Price: $80 Designed for just about any injury or illness, this palettes simulates burns, cuts, scrapes, scabs and bruises. Compatible with the Reel Creations Fleshtone Palette mentioned above, mix and blend colors to create varying degrees of gore and injury. Camera Ready customer Casandra S. says, “I absolutely love it. I use it for everything, whether it’s creating bruises, cuts or painting prosthetics. It’s totally worth it and a must-have for any makeup artist.” These pigments are rich in color content, which makes this palette go farther and last longer than others on the market. Shop Skin Illustrator FX Palette PPI Glazing Gels Price: Choose from 19 color options at $16.50 each. Set apart from other bruising effects makeup, these gels are specially made for extreme closeup film work for bruise and injury effects that appear to be a part of the skin, not on top of it. Sunburn, freckles, shadows, discoloration - whatever your SFX creative needs, these gels will make it look like the real thing. Camera Ready customer Nina A. says, “It looks like it’s in the skin, not on it. I use it on set for quick bruises, sunburn and dark circles. It works great around the eyes for those who are sensitive. I have every color.” These water-based, transparent colors wear exceptionally well for the demands of high definition film and television, and they deliver realistic subtlety that cannot be achieved with heavier cream-based products. Shop PPI Glazing Gels Shop The Products Ready to create your very own, affordable, fully-stocked SFX kit? We conveniently linked all of the products mentioned in this article down below. Click, buy and be fully prepared to venture into the world of SFX makeup artistry! 1) Ben Nye Thick Blood 2) Ben Nye Nose and Scar Wax 3) 3rd Degree Silicone Modeling Compound 4) Ben Nye Final Seal 5) Ben Nye Liquid Latex 6) Kryolan Supracolor 7) Mehron Pro Color Ring - Bruise 8) Reel Creations Fleshtone Palette 9) Skin Illustrator FX Palette 10) PPI Glazing Gels Tag us in your SFX makeup creations on Instagram for a chance to be reposted, and visit our blog for more articles like this one! Interested in contributing content to our website? Email your topic suggestions for consideration! About Camera Ready Cosmetics Camera Ready Cosmetics was founded in 2003 by pro makeup artist Mary Erickson. An industry veteran for more than 30 years, Mary knows quality and value and understands what an artist needs. Mary is the buyer for Camera Ready Cosmetics and chooses only what she would use on set. If you don’t find the product you’re looking for on our site, that’s because we have something better. Just ask us!

Navigating the world of special effects makeup can be intimidating and overwhelming for newbies. If you’re itching to create bloody, bruised characters but don’t know where to start, you’ve come to the right place (or blog, that is) to learn about SFX makeup for beginners. We asked makeup artists to weigh in on the best SFX makeup for beginners and narrowed it down to these five makeup must-have products to get you started on the right foot. Continue reading to learn more about the professional-grade products highly recommended by pros and start building an SFX makeup kit beginners will love. One, two, three, GO-re!   WHAT IS SFX MAKEUP? SFX makeup is makeup used to create characters with special effects, like aging, injuries, deformities, and supernatural features. SFX makeup is perfect for creating characters for cosplay, Halloween, TV, and the stage. Artists use prosthetics, liquid latex, wigs, and more to create anything from ghastly ghouls and glam witches to darling butterflies and creepy clowns. Learn what SFX makeup supplies are considered makeup must-haves when creating a makeup kit SFX beginners will be able to utilize like a pro.   SHOP THE BEST SFX MAKEUP FOR BEGINNERS Ready to begin your journey into the world of SFX makeup? Stock up on these stage makeup basics, and you’ll be well on your way to creating characters like a pro in no time.  1) Mehron CreamBlend Sticks 2) Ben Nye Liquid Latex 3) Ben Nye SFX Blood 4) Mehron Pro Color Ring - Bruise 5) Pros-Aide Adhesive   MEHRON CREAMBLEND STICKS for SFX Looks Available in 58 shade varieties, the Mehron CreamBlend Sticks are a necessary staple in any SFX makeup kit – beginner and pro alike. These performance creams by Mehron are high-quality and full-coverage for the face or body. The formula’s smooth, supple texture is easy to blend and stays put all day with minimal (if any at all) touchups required. Choose from natural skin tone colors or vibrant and bold shades to create whatever character you envision, from a watercolor painting makeup look to a frightening zombie - for just $11.95 per stick. BEN NYE Liquid LATEX is an SFX staple Another recommendation from our trusty makeup artist customers is Ben Nye’s Liquid Latex. This SFX makeup for beginners is considered a holy grail makeup must-have for any SFX makeup kit. This multi-purpose product works well to seal modeling wax or to create aging, blister, and wound effects directly on the skin. Commonly referred to as “slip rubber,” liquid latex is frequently used to mold prosthetic appliances. We have a wide array of latex options perfect for any pro or beginner makeup kit. Beginner’s Best SFX BLOOD by Ben Nye Most SFX makeup beginners can’t wait to try their hand at a bloody, gore look. There are dozens of blood SFX products on the market, which makes narrowing down the options a bit overwhelming. We asked the pros which product they would recommend as the best SFX makeup for beginners, and Ben Nye’s Fresh Scab topped the list. A makeup artist favorite, this jelly-like product is perfect for creating natural-looking scabs, blood clots, and more. The corn syrup-based formula is infused with a peppermint flavor for pleasant use in and around the mouth, and it easily washes from most fabrics and surfaces. As with any blood SFX products, we recommend spot-testing before each use.  Ben Nye offers a variety of other blood-related products you can try as your beginner makeup kit continues to grow.  MEHRON PRO COLOR RING For SFX Bruising The affordable, extremely handy Pro Color Ring Bruise from Mehron is the perfect SFX makeup for beginners because it includes every shade you need to create fresh and healing bruise looks. A must-have in any SFX beginner makeup kit, the wheel-shaped compact includes green, yellow, light brown, dark brown, and black shades that easily smudge and blend to create realistic face bruise makeup. The long-lasting formula won’t fade or melt away even after hours of wear. Try creating your own face bruise looks with this makeup and see for yourself why Camera Ready customers consistently rate it 5-out-of-5 stars. PROS-AIDE ® ADHESIVE FOr all Your SFX Makeup Needs This medical-grade, water-based skin adhesive keeps prosthetic applications and other makeup components intact for long periods of time. An industry standard, “The Original” Pros-Aide ® formula is non-toxic and safe to use on all skin types, including sensitive areas. The product is also highly water-resistant to withstand even the harshest conditions on set. Pros-Aide includes a variety of other makeup supplies that spawn off the original formula, such as a cream-based variety and a “no-tack” option, which creates less residual stick. Use the Pros-Aide ® Remover to safely remove your SFX makeup creations.    Tag @camerareadycosmetics and @camerareadySFX in your special effects makeup creations for a chance to be reposted on our Instagram. What other SFX makeup for beginners would you include on this product list? Let us know in the comments below!   ABOUT CAMERA READY COSMETICS   Camera Ready Cosmetics was founded in 2003 by makeup artist Mary Erickson. An industry veteran for more than 30 years, Mary knows quality and value and understands what an artist needs. Mary is the buyer for Camera Ready Cosmetics and only chooses makeup supplies that she would use on set. If you don’t find the product or makeup supplies you’re looking for on our site, that’s because we have something better. Just ask us!

The eyes are the window to the soul, so let’s make those beauties stand out! Every client you encounter will have a different eye shape, and it’s important to know the best tips and techniques for enhancing their natural beauty.  “What eye shape do I have?” This is a question we get a lot, so we’ve outlined each of the most common shapes of eyes below with tips on how to effectively accentuate different eye shapes, as well as which products will help you achieve maximum results for each of the different eye shapes. Educate yourself, get inspired, and stock your kit with these eye makeup essentials for a versatile kit anywhere you go.  The Different Eye Shapes:  Deep set eyes Wide set eyes Protruding eyes Close set eyes Upturned eyes Downturned eyes Hooded eyelids Monolids Deep Set Eyes Having deep set eyes simply means the eyeballs are set further back into the skull, creating a more prominent brow bone. Famous faces with this shape of eye include Taylor Swift, Halle Berry, and Renee Zellweger. For deep set eyes makeup, opt for lighter, highlighting colors to brighten the lid and to create the illusion of more eye space. The key with deep set eyes and makeup is to de-emphasize shadows caused by the brow bone. The Make Up For Ever Pro Glow Highlighter comes in a Pearly Rose and Iridescent Gold colors and works well to enhance a natural glow. Wide Set Eyes This shape of eye refers to eyes that are more than one eye-width apart. Famous faces with this feature include Michelle Pfeiffer, Oprah Winfrey, and Jackie O. The goal of enhancing wide set eyes is to make them look closer together. The simplest way to achieve this is by using a dark liner around the entire rim of the eye, as well as the inner corners near the tear ducts. Jillian Dempsey’s Khol Eyeliner leaves a silky-smooth finish that lasts all day. Protruding Eyes Considered one of the more recognizable shapes of eyes, protruding eyes are very round, wide, and appear further out from the skull. Famous faces with this feature include Nicole Richie, Christina Ricci, and Emma Stone. People with this shape of eye can typically pull off any makeup style, but most especially a dark smokey eye with false lashes and bold brows. Dose of Colors’ Smokey Soiree Eyeshadow Palette is the perfect option for a subtly seductive look. The versatile palette includes a mixture of matte and ultra-reflective shimmer shadows. Close Set Eyes Another recognizable type among the different eye shapes, close set refers to eyes that have more space between the temples and outer eye corners than between the actual eyes. Famous faces with this feature include Jennifer Anniston, Kristen Bell, and Miley Cyrus. Opposite of wide set eyes, the goal here is to create the appearance of eyes that are farther apart. Light, reflective shadows applied to the inner corner of the eyes are effective but stay away from darker shades that will make the eyes look smaller.  The RMS Beauty Eye Polish creates a sheer, metallic finish that illuminates the eye and moisturizes all at the same time. Upturned Eyes This is the perfect shape of eye for a seductive cat eye. Upturned eyes are almond-shaped but curve upward towards the outer corners. Famous faces with this feature include Angelina Jolie, Kendall Jenner, and Beyonce.  Upturned eyes are best accentuated with a balance of shimmer and darker, matte hues. Avoid heavy eyeliners and choose appropriate shadow colors for the skin tone and eye color you’re working with for a more natural look. Create the perfect look with the Mehron E.Y.E. and CHEEK Powder Palette. The powder-based shadows are designed for the most extreme HDTV close-up, so you can feel confident it will perform well and last all day long. Downturned Eyes Almond-shaped with the outer corners curved downward, the downturned shape of eye has a rounded upper lip and flat bottom. Famous faces with this feature include Katie Holmes, Anne Hathaway, and Marilyn Monroe. When doing makeup for downset eyes, aim to create an artificial upward lift by accentuating the outer corners. Choose soft, warm shadows and liners that accentuate the eye color to create the appearance of bigger eyes. Rituel De Fille’s Ash and Amber Eye Soot is actually an eyeshadow color product, but we also love it for soft, natural eyeliner. The rich texture is created with pure pigments and oils, so it won’t melt off or fade throughout the day. This eye soot is the perfect product to makeup downset eyes with a sultry lift.   Hooded Eyelids Among the different eye shapes, hooded lids are known for creating the appearance of small, squinty eyes due to a hidden or less visible crease. Famous faces with hooded eyelids feature include Kate Moss, Lucy Liu, and Blake Lively.  Neutral tones will enhance the eyelid and create the appearance of bigger eyes without looking over the top. Highlighting shadow on the inner corner of the eyes and along the brow bone will also make this hooded lids shape of eyes appear more open. An unusual favorite is Illamasqua’s Beyond Liquid Highlighter, which offers a lightweight glow and a dewy finish. Just a light dab to the inner corner of the eyes, and you’ll have a beautifully luminous, fresh-faced look. Monolids A common trait amongst Asian populations, monolids are the shape of eye defined by the upper lid completely overlapping the lower lid, creating the appearance of no eye crease and a softer brow bone. Famous faces with this feature include Sandra Oh, Jamie Chung, and Vera Wang. The goal of applying makeup on this shape of eye is to develop a gradient of color without creating an artificial crease. Choose products that blend very easily to create a look that appears as if each layer is fading into the next. We love Stila’s Smudge Stick Waterproof Eye Liner because it’s easy to blend and manipulate upon initial application, but once it sets, your creation won’t budge. Shop The Best Products for Different Eye Shapes Now you’re ready to master makeup application for any of the different eye shapes! Arm your kit with the products mentioned above so you’ll be ready for any makeup style anywhere you go. 1) Deep Set Eyes: Make Up For Ever Pro Glow Highlighter 2) Wide Set Eyes: Jillian Dempsey’s Khol Eyeliner 3) Protruding Eyes: Dose of Colors’ Smokey Soiree Eyeshadow Palette 4) Close Set Eyes: RMS Beauty Eye Polish 5) Upturned Eyes: Mehron E.Y.E. and CHEEK Powder Palette 6) Downturned Eyes: Rituel De Fille’s Ash and Amber Eye Soot 7) Hooded Eyelids: Illamasqua’s Beyond Liquid Highlighter 8) Monolids: Stila’s Smudge Stick Waterproof Eye Liner   About Camera Ready Cosmetics Camera Ready Cosmetics was founded in 2003 by makeup artist Mary Erickson. An industry veteran for more than 30 years, Mary knows quality and value and understands what an artist needs. Mary is the buyer for Camera Ready Cosmetics and chooses only what she would use on set. If you don’t find the product you’re looking for on our site, that’s because we have something better. Just ask us!