Lauren's Guide to Makeup

This part of the site is intended as a jump-start for those new to the art of makeup with particular emphasis on TG/TS issues. The Guide does not go into fine detail, just enough to get you started but hopefully you'll be interested enough to learn more from other resources as you experiment & gain confidence.

The sections are organised in the same flow as you would normally expect to apply makeup from prepping your skin to the finished "look". The looks that I'm aiming for in these guides are mostly natural and feminine night looks, never drag. Wherever possible I have illustrated each section, sometimes they're interactive, and they are all structured as:

Details what the section is trying to achieve and how it relates to any other sections.

Lists generic (minimum) and branded (ideal) products used in the section and how to choose products particular to your skin type/tone.

What tools you will need for the section, including brush types, alternatives etc..

This is the main part of each section. It shows you how to apply and finish the products and wherever possible includes photos and/or illustrations.

Tips that I have picked up from professional makeup artists that save time, frustration and interesting finishing touches.

How long the Guide section should take as a beginner and once experienced.

There are no rules but "Less is More " is a good idea.

And finally... I would like to thank all those that have contributed to this Guide, including, the supportive staff at MAC cosmetics in London and New York, Nena Williams, Theresa Bartram and Gretchen Schmidt for their art, Leah True and models Jade Tompkins, Jan Freeman and Jennifer English for their tolerance and stunning looks. Many thanks to Stella at TVC x





Skin Preparation: Achieve an ultra close shave, tone and moistorize for soft smooth skin.		Foundation: Hide blemishes, cover dark beard tones, colour correct areas, concealer application and fix.

Know your face: Interactive, discover your face shape. You'll need to know this in the next section (contouring).		Contouring and Blush: Shading, high-lighting and blush application.

Eyes: Eye shadow, eye liner, brow shaping, lashes and false lashes plus stunning eye effects.		Lips: Lip care, lip-liner, lipstick, lip glosses and lip shape compensation.

Nails: Nail preparation, base, main and top coats. Also stick-on, gel and Acrylic nails plus how-to pedicure and manicure.		Hair & Wigs: Hair care, choosing a wig, wig care and styling real hair.

Body Shape: Create feminine curves to die for. It's easier than you might think.		SkinCare: Removing makeup, care regime to keep your skin looking great & tanning.

Candi's Transgender Voice: A video plan to help transform your voice.		Useful Information : Just a gathering of really useful stuff to know: sizes, resources, conversion charts, etc..

For those experienced in the art of makeup and have had the patience to read through these guides I'd love to hear from you if you have any ideas, suggestions, corrections or tips on how the Guide may be improved. Thank you. By starting with the this guide I hope that you will learn to experiment with confidence and go on to develop your own techniques and what works best for you. And just to help you, download Lauren's "Look" sheet to create looks and practise your skills without putting a brush to your face! Click here to print/download the Look Sheet.