Tips for painting adults

Does anyone have any special tricks for successfully painting designs over an adult client where skin is not as smooth? Is there a product that would help create a smooth surface before painting? Maybe a base coat of skin tone color paint? I was hired last year to paint a Mardi Gras mask for a lady and it was the first time I had painted an older adult. It worked out fine and she was very happy with the end product but I didn't think my line work turned out as crisp as it does when painting a child with taut skin. I would love any tips that you think might help as I am excited to have the opportunity to paint her again (and 2 of her friends).
Thanks!
Kathy

I heard someone say that preperation h helps

Erica's Funny Faces wrote:I heard someone say that preperation h helps

Well not technically "heard" lol. I saw it in a thread...maybe it was Shannon. Almost all good advice stems from her.

You might try a BB cream to even out texture. They're trendy in the make up world right now and they come in light, medium, and dark, so you don't have to match exactly. Garnier makes one for around $11. As far as application, I'd squirt it on a palette and use my fingers or a cosmetic sponge to apply.

Of course, evening out skin texture is not going to help with loose skin and deeper wrinkles.

I would personally just adjust the design to the contours of their face.

For example... stick to gentle sponging around the outside of the eyes (crows feet) to avoid sloppy linework in the wrinkles. Do your linework where the skin is smoother (maybe forehead, temples, cheeks?)

I've heard metallic paint draws more attention to wrinkles, so try to avoid it in those areas. And use lots of glitter to make everything sparkly and beautiful!

Janna is correct, IMO.

Do designs that work with the face. Avoid metallics and shimmers on very creased skin, keep the linework away from the eyes.

Do masks with eye holes instead of painting over the lids - on vintage skin the make-up is going to slide into the creases no matter what so just avoid it.

Personally... I wouldn't bother with primers or other sorts of creams underneath face paint for a one-of for a party etc.