Color Theory for the Make-up Artist: Understanding Color and Light for Beauty and Special Effects

Price: $49.99 - $37.97
(as of May 03, 2026 13:36:38 UTC – Details)

Color Theory for the Make-up Artist: Understanding Color and Light for Beauty and Special Effects (Second Edition) analyzes and explains traditional color theory for fine artists and applies it to make-up artistry.

This beautifully illustrated guide begins with the basics of color theory – why we see color, how to categorize and identify color, and relationships between colors – and relates these concepts to beauty and special effects make-up. The book provides a wealth of information, including how to mix flesh tones by using only primary colors, how these colors in paints and make-up are sourced and created, the reason for variations in skin colors and undertones, and how to identify and match these using make-up while choosing flattering colors for the eyes, lips, and cheeks. Colors found inside the body are explained for special effects make-up, like why we bruise, bleed, or appear sick. Ideas and techniques are also described for painting prosthetics, in addition to using color as inspiration in make-up designs. The book also discusses how lighting affects color on film, television, theater, and photography sets, and how to properly light a workspace for successful applications.

The second edition features:

A brand-new chapter on color inspiration in make-up and design

Additional and updated diagrams

More real-life application photos and demonstrations, including new examples of tattoo covering and prosthetic painting using optical mixtures, airbrush, and stippling

Expanded discussion on undertones, skin variations, color correction, pigments, colored gels, and more

Filled with stunning photography and practical information, Color Theory for the Make-up Artist provides guidance and inspiration for both professionals and beginners who wish to train their eye further to understand and recognize distinctions in color.

From the Publisher

Publisher ‏ : ‎ Routledge
Publication date ‏ : ‎ October 12, 2022
Edition ‏ : ‎ 2nd
Language ‏ : ‎ English
Print length ‏ : ‎ 224 pages
ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0367609754
ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0367609757
Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 1.9 pounds
Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 8.27 x 0.63 x 10.94 inches
Best Sellers Rank: #139,976 in Books (See Top 100 in Books) #22 in Stagecraft (Books) #132 in Movie Direction & Production #292 in Fashion Design
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