Using a MAC face chart (or any face chart in general) is a great way to plan, experiment, and perfect makeup looks before applying them to a real person. Here’s how you can effectively use a MAC face chart:
1. Print or Download the Face Chart
- Download: If you’ve downloaded a MAC face chart, save it to your computer or device.
- Print: Print it out on 100% cotton resume paper or you can use regular paper or, preferably, on heavier weight paper for durability. If you plan to reuse it multiple times, you might want to print it on a material that can be wiped clean, such as cardstock or laminated paper.
2. Prepare Your Tools
- Pencils, Markers, or Paints: Use colored pencils, markers, or paints to draw your makeup looks on the chart. You can choose whichever medium you feel most comfortable with.
- Makeup Tools (Optional): If you’re working digitally, you can use a tablet or drawing software to simulate applying makeup.
3. Plan Your Look
- Eyes: Start with the eyes. Draw different eyeshadow colors, eyeliner, mascara, and brows on the face chart. You can experiment with different color combinations or bold graphic shapes, making it easier to visualize the look without committing to your face.
- Lips: Try different lipstick shades and textures (matte, glossy, or metallic). You can draw various lip shapes and colors to see how they’ll complement the rest of the look.
- Face & Cheeks: Add blush, bronzer, or contouring products to shape the face. You can test how different shades work with your overall makeup vision.
- Details: Don’t forget to add fine details such as highlighter, eyelashes, and any other finishing touches you want to experiment with.
4. Experiment with Different Looks
- Use the face chart to play around with bold ideas, new color combinations, or techniques without the time pressure of applying makeup to a real face. It’s a great way to try things out before committing to them for a client or on yourself.
- You can also layer different looks on the same chart to compare variations and see what works best.
5. Recreate the Look on a Person
- Once you’re happy with the design, you can recreate the makeup on a real person, following your drawn plan. The chart serves as a guide to ensure you’re able to replicate the look you’ve designed.
- For special events or photoshoots, a face chart is also useful for referencing specific designs and keeping consistency across multiple models or looks.
6. Evaluate and Refine
- As you get more comfortable with a look, you might make changes to your technique or color choices based on your experience. Don’t be afraid to go back to the chart and refine it as you practice.
7. Reuse and Recycle
- If you’ve printed your chart on a durable surface or laminated it, you can erase and redraw new looks over time. This allows you to experiment with different designs, save money, and reduce waste.
Tips for Using a MAC Face Chart:
- Use light colors for a more neutral base: If you’re planning to layer on bold colors, begin with a light base to make your designs pop.
- Use references: If you’re not sure about a color scheme, refer to makeup inspiration photos or looks from MAC collections to guide your charting.
- Practice makes perfect: The more you use face charts, the easier it will be to translate your creative ideas into actual makeup applications.
By using a face chart, you’ll have a clear and structured approach to creating makeup designs that can be tested and tweaked before applying them to your or someone else’s face.