Mermaidcore makeup is a mesmerizing trend that transports you into the enchanting world of mermaids. This makeup style embraces the ethereal beauty of the ocean with shimmering scales, iridescent finishes, and oceanic hues. Whether you’re looking to create a dramatic look for a special event or simply want to add a touch of whimsy to your everyday makeup, mermaidcore makeup offers endless possibilities. In this article, we’ll explore how to achieve the perfect mermaidcore look, incorporating expert tips, personal anecdotes, and practical advice.
What is Mermaidcore Makeup?
Mermaidcore makeup is all about embracing the ethereal, whimsical side of beauty. Celebrity makeup artist Katie Jane Hughes describes it as “a celebration of shimmer, iridescence, and the mesmerizing colors of the ocean” (Instagram @katiejanehughes).
Key Elements of Mermaidcore Makeup
- Shimmering Scales: Create a scale-like effect with iridescent and holographic products.
- Ocean Hues: Use colors inspired by the sea, such as turquoise, aqua, and deep blue.
- Iridescent Finishes: Embrace products with a multi-dimensional, pearlescent finish.
- Luminous Glow: Focus on hydrated, glowing skin to mimic the radiant beauty of a mermaid.
Prepping Your Skin
The foundation of any great makeup look is well-prepped skin. Mermaidcore makeup thrives on a luminous, hydrated base.
Skincare Routine
- Cleanse: Start with a gentle cleanser to remove impurities.
- Exfoliate: Exfoliate to create a smooth canvas for your makeup.
- Moisturize: Use a hydrating moisturizer to keep your skin plump and dewy.
- Primer: Apply a radiant primer to enhance your skin’s natural glow.
Personal Anecdote: I remember the first time I tried a hydrating primer before applying mermaidcore makeup. The difference it made was incredible—my skin looked so much more radiant and smooth, setting the perfect base for the shimmering products to come.
Creating the Perfect Mermaidcore Eyes
The eyes are the centerpiece of mermaidcore makeup. Here’s how to make them pop with ocean-inspired colors and shimmering finishes.
Eyeshadow
Danessa Myricks, makeup artist and founder, emphasizes playful experimentation: “With mermaidcore makeup, there are no rules. It’s about playful experimentation with textures, colors, and finishes. Think holographic highlighters, shimmering scales, and multi-dimensional eyeshadows that capture the magic of the sea” (Danessa Myricks Beauty).
- Base Color: Start with a neutral base color to even out your eyelids.
- Ocean Hues: Apply shades of turquoise, aqua, and deep blue to your eyelids. Blend these colors to create a seamless gradient.
- Shimmer: Add a layer of iridescent eyeshadow on top. Focus on the center of the eyelid for a halo effect that catches the light.
Eyeliner
Opt for metallic or glittery eyeliner in shades of blue, green, or silver. This adds an extra touch of sparkle and complements the eyeshadow.
Mascara and Lashes
Use a lengthening mascara to define your lashes. For a more dramatic look, apply false lashes with a natural fluttery finish or those with a hint of glitter.
Personal Anecdote: For a beach-themed party, I used a turquoise glitter eyeliner that added a magical touch to my look. It not only made my eyes pop but also stayed put all night despite the humidity.
Highlighting and Contouring
Highlighting and contouring in mermaidcore makeup focuses on creating a luminous, glowing effect rather than sharp contrasts.
Highlighter
Choose a highlighter with a pearlescent or holographic finish. Apply it to the high points of your face: the tops of your cheekbones, the bridge of your nose, and your cupid’s bow.
Contour
Keep contouring light and subtle. Use a soft bronzer to add a bit of warmth and dimension without overshadowing the shimmer.
Erin Parsons, Maybelline Global Makeup Artist, suggests: “Mermaidcore makeup is all about creating a luminous, otherworldly glow. Think hydrated skin, shimmery eyeshadows, and glossy lips that evoke the glistening scales of a mermaid” (Maybelline).
Adding Whimsical Details
Blush
Choose a blush in soft coral or pink shades. Apply it to the apples of your cheeks and blend upwards towards your temples for a natural, flushed look.
Lips
Opt for a lip gloss or balm with a hint of shimmer. Shades like light pink, peach, or clear gloss with iridescent particles work well.
Whimsical Elements
Incorporate playful details like tiny star or shell stickers, holographic face gems, or even a touch of glitter to your look. These elements can be placed around your eyes, on your cheeks, or even in your hair for a truly ethereal effect.
Robin Black, celebrity makeup artist, encourages bold choices: “Mermaidcore makeup is a celebration of individuality and self-expression. Don’t be afraid to go bold with your choices, whether it’s a dramatic eye look or a vibrant lip color. The key is to have fun and embrace your inner mermaid” (Beauty Is Boring).
The Psychological Benefits of Fantasy Makeup
Wearing fantasy makeup like mermaidcore can have positive effects on your mood and self-expression. A study in the Psychology of Aesthetics, Creativity, and the Arts explored how fantasy makeup trends empower individuals to express their creativity and individuality, highlighting the role of social media in promoting these trends (2023).
Expressing Creativity
Mermaidcore makeup allows you to express your creativity and individuality. It’s a chance to play with colors and textures that you might not use in everyday makeup.
Boosting Confidence
The act of transforming yourself into a whimsical, ethereal character can boost your confidence and help you feel more empowered.
Unique Study: The Color Research & Application study investigates the emotional and psychological impact of the mermaidcore makeup trend, focusing on the use of cool-toned colors, shimmer, and iridescence. It delves into how these elements evoke feelings of tranquility, wonder, and escape, promoting positive mental health (2024).
Tips for Perfecting Your Mermaidcore Look
Blend Well
Blending is key to achieving a seamless, ethereal look. Use fluffy brushes to blend eyeshadows and highlighters, ensuring there are no harsh lines.
Experiment with Colors
Don’t be afraid to mix and match different shades of blue, green, and purple. The ocean is a colorful place, and your makeup should reflect that.
Hydrate Your Skin
Hydrated skin is the foundation of a glowing mermaidcore look. Drink plenty of water and use hydrating skincare products to keep your skin looking fresh and dewy.
Practice Makes Perfect
Fantasy makeup can be challenging at first, but practice makes perfect. Experiment with different products and techniques to find what works best for you.
Personal Anecdote: The first time I tried mermaidcore makeup, I struggled with blending the eyeshadows. After a few attempts and watching some tutorials, I finally got the hang of it. Now, it’s one of my favorite makeup styles for special occasions.
Conclusion
Mermaidcore makeup is a delightful and whimsical way to express yourself. By embracing shimmering scales, ocean hues, and iridescent finishes, you can create a magical look that feels like an escape to an underwater world.
As Katie Jane Hughes puts it, “Mermaidcore makeup is about embracing the ethereal, whimsical side of beauty. It’s a celebration of shimmer, iridescence, and the mesmerizing colors of the ocean” (Instagram @katiejanehughes).
Whether you’re attending a special event, creating content for social media, or just having fun with your makeup, mermaidcore offers endless possibilities for creativity and self-expression. So gather your ocean-inspired colors, glitters, and whimsical details, and let your inner mermaid shine. Happy creating!
