What Makeup Is Used on Soap Operas?
Soap opera actors need more than just waterproof makeup to withstand tears for dramatic scenes; renowned for looking flawless onscreen, soap actresses give makeup lovers reason to want a peek into the makeup kits of the pros responsible for such perfection. With a little practice and an investment in the necessary products, anyone can recreate a face suitable for the soaps. Does this Spark an idea?
Significance
The details picked up by the camera in these days of high-definition--or "HD"--TV require equally high-quality makeup for use on soap operas. Even if the script does not require an actor to look particularly glamorous, he still needs the skills of a professional makeup artist. For instance, a minute amount of shine that would go unnoticed in person is captured on camera and has to be eliminated in order to keep from distracting viewers. By using cosmetics especially formulated to last under the intensity of bright lights, makeup artists spend less time and energy on touch-ups.
Types
Although the airbrushing technique that sprays makeup evenly and finely onto actors' faces is now commonplace, makeup artists still use the traditional makeup application method. MAC, or Make-up Art Cosmetics, is a department store brand that can provide the necessary coverage and pigmentation for TV. It was developed to hold up under even the most stringent lighting conditions for photography, and for this reason can be found in many professional makeup artists' kits. MAC Cosmetics can also be purchased at freestanding stores. A specialty brand like Ben Nye, which was created by a Hollywood makeup artist, also offers products that are suitable for a soap opera. You can find Ben Nye Makeup online (see Resources).
Considerations
For everyday wear, it is not necessary to purchase makeup especially manufactured for TV to look as glamorous as a soap opera actress. The foundation may be too heavy for your comfort, and wearing it in broad daylight could make you appear highly unnatural, as though you are wearing a mask. The water-activated pancake-type foundations that were created by makeup artist Max Factor in Hollywood's golden age are an example of soap opera makeup that you might want to avoid for daily wear. You can, however, get away with wearing other highly pigmented products like eyeshadows, eyeliners and lipsticks. With a light hand and expertise at blending, you can layer makeup on to be as light or as heavy as you desire.
Misconceptions
While you can find a large assortment of colors at the cosmetics aisle of any popular drugstore or perhaps even at the dollar store, the quality of this makeup is more than likely not sufficient for a television appearance. The foundation in particular may not have the kind of texture that films well. Keep in mind that not all cosmetics are created equal. If you will be filmed and are uncertain whether or not there will be a professional makeup artist, you can put together a personal makeup kit on short notice. Pay a visit to the makeup counters at the department store and explain to the sales staff that you are looking for products with opaque coverage. It is worthwhile to come prepared, as a makeup person is not always provided by television networks.
Warning
As soon as filming is over, do your skin a favor by thoroughly removing your makeup. Since TV cosmetics are typically thicker and heavier than everyday makeup, your skin can rejuvenate more quickly and breathe more easily once you clean your face. If the artist who applied your makeup does not practice good hygiene with her tools and cosmetics, you have an even bigger reason to cleanse the impurities off of your skin immediately. Makeup that has been double-dipped into and brushes that are not sanitized in between clients are a breeding ground for bacteria. Eye and skin infections are a common result of these unsanitary makeup habits.
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