The Proper Lighting For Daytime and Nighttime Makeup

by POPSUGAR Beauty 7

Ever wonder what kind of lighting is best for applying makeup? So did reader mishanyc, who recently posed the following question in the BellaSugar Q and A group in the Bella Community. "When natural light/daylight is not available, what type of artificial lighting is best when applying makeup for day and night," she asks. To find out the answer, just keep reading.

The first thing to consider:

• It's a sunshine day: The best kind of lighting mimics sunlight since it's the purest light. It's also the most unforgiving — perfect for makeup application so that you don't miss a thing. For the easiest way to get this crisp, bright effect, purchase a natural light makeup mirror, like this one from Brookstone ($130), which can be adjusted with a dimmer. Also try Conair's lighted makeup mirror ($30), which has multiple settings for different life scenarios.

Other things to consider:

• The source: Overhead lighting, or lighting from behind, will likely cast unwanted shadows on the face. When applying makeup, the light source should be straight in front of you so that it illuminates the front and sides of the face without any glare. Almost all makeup mirrors (including vanity mirrors) are designed to eliminate this problem.
• If you're buying bulbs: Look for ones labeled "daylight spectrum" or "natural light." And if you really want to get into lighting a room correctly for applying makeup (wattage types, shielded fixtures, and all), talk to a lighting expert.
• Think about where you're going: Office lighting is different than, say, candlelight dinner lighting. More tips on how to apply makeup for these different circumstances to come. But remember: natural light is the go-to for the purest results.