How can make-up artists adapt international runway trends for Indian facial features, skin tones, and real-world wearability?
-Prityush Potdar, Pune
Swap icy pastels for the warmth of terracotta, bronze, and jewel tones that celebrate Indian undertones. Structural adaptation is equally vital. Replace harsh, angular contouring with diffused sculpting to complement fuller facial features. To ensure real-world wearability, follow the ‘rule of one’: balance a bold, graphic eye with neutral skin and a soft lip. By softening edges and prioritising rich, harmonious palettes, you capture the trend’s spirit while enhancing natural Indian beauty.
What is your ideal skin assessment process before deciding on foundation texture, coverage, and undertone matching?
-Amantika Singh, Jaipur
Start by observing the skin in natural light, noting texture, pigmentation, dehydration, or redness. Next, identify the skin type to determine the appropriate foundation texture. Undertone analysis follows, comparing the face with the neck and chest to identify warm, neutral, or olive undertones, which are common in Indian skin tones. Finally, evaluate the coverage requirement, deciding whether sheer, medium, or corrective coverage is needed.
With HD and long-wear make-up becoming standard, how can I ensure skin still looks natural and breathable?
-Manika Sisodia, Delhi
HD make-up is less about heavy coverage and more about precision and layering. The process starts with thorough skin preparation: hydration and targeted priming create a smooth canvas, so less product is needed. Instead of applying full coverage across the face, use thin, precision layers and rely on spot concealing where required. Cream textures tend to mimic the natural finish of skin better than thick matte formulas. Setting should also be selective powder primarily in areas prone to shine while allowing the rest of the skin to retain a soft luminosity. This keeps the complexion natural while still performing under HD cameras.
As summer approaches, what techniques can help me improve the longevity of make-up for humid conditions without making the skin appear heavy or cakey?
-Dikhsha K, Kochi
Begin with oil-balancing skincare and a gripping or mattifying primer focused on the T-zone. Choose long-wear formulas with breathable textures. Build coverage gradually where needed instead of applying heavy layers all at once. Layering cream products with a light dusting of powder can significantly improve durability without adding weight. Finally, a humidity-resistant setting spray helps bind the layers together and prevents separation. The aim is to create a base that remains fresh, stable, and skin-like even in high temperatures.
How can we artists strike the right balance between creativity and client comfort when suggesting bold eye or lip looks?
- Nathan, Guwahati
Creativity works best when it feels collaborative. Understanding the client’s personal style, occasion, and comfort level is the starting point. When introducing bold elements, it helps to focus on one statement feature at a time, like a strong lip paired with minimal eyes or graphic liner balanced with soft skin and neutral tones. Visual references help clients feel more confident about experimenting.
How can we effectively upsell premium services like airbrush make-up, skin prep rituals, or customised looks without sounding sales-focused?
- Sheetal Rajesh, Gurgaon
Upselling works when positioned as professional guidance rather than a sales pitch. Instead of presenting services as upgrades, explain how they enhance the final result. For instance, airbrush make-up can be recommended for events with long hours or intense photography, while advanced skin prep can improve texture and longevity for mature or dehydrated skin. Framing the conversation around performance, comfort, and longevity helps clients understand the value.
MEET THE EXPERT
Vaishali is a qualified cosmetologist and nutritionist, and the founder-director of LTA School of Beauty. With 14 years of salon experience and global training from CIBTAC and CIDESCO, she empowers thousands of professionals through expert programmes. As India’s official beauty skill expert for the National Skill Development Council, she has represented the country at five WorldSkills competitions and served at international skill events, championing strong foundations and career-ready training for students.
To participate in Ask Our Expert and get your questions answered by Vaishali K Shah, message your query to @pbhjindia on Instagram or email to afrin.idex@gmail.com. *Questions have been edited for clarity and length.