Cosme

For many centuries the uniqueness of the Geisha has been an intrigue to Western Civilization. Being geisha is an art, though a common misunderstanding is the thought that Geisha are prostitutes, but it is absolutely wrong statement. Geisha don’t sell their body and soul, but art. And makeup is also a part of the art. Tradgeisha makeupitional Geisha makeup is a pasty white face, neck (moving around to the back, traveling to the collar of the kimono), and hands. Small pout lips are painted over the natural lips and the eyes are trimmed in red.Geisha are the epitome of sexy femaleness in Asia – and that sensual mystery has made its way over the pond. Grown-up dress-up and even street fashion are always influenced by films, and last year’s “Memoirs of a Geisha” has made its mark.

Geisha Makeup Design

Geisha go through a cycle of different phases and appearances, the two most obvious being the popularly depicted young geisha in heavy makeup, and the older more subtly made-up geisha that is closer to retirement age.

The traditional geisha makeups most Westerners have seen in pictures and through other forms of media include the heavy white foundation base. This was originally made out of rice powder or with lead, the latter of which was most obviously not good for the geisha’s skin! The traditional geisha makeup look also includes strikingly red lipstick and red & black decorative etchings around the eye area.

The History of Geisha MakeUp in Japan

Their face snow white, eyes and eyebrows lined in crimson and black, bee stung lips - painted crimson. This is the face and makeup we have come to associate with maiko and geisha. Although their makeup is surely one of the most recognizable elements about them, it is interesting to note, that this has not always been the case.

Geisha Makeup Tips

Cleanse face.

Apply your favorite moisturizer. This also allows the foundation to go on smoothly. Try it once without and you will see the difference.

Apply rouge/blush in a shade of silvery pink on the fullest part of your cheeks. You might have to mix a few of your own blushes to get this color, but that is half the fun.

Next, you’re going to need to apply a white foundation or a cakey white face paint to your face. You don’t want the makeup to be too thick or too stark. Remember, you’re trying to be a geisha, not a clown or a mime.