Tips for Perfecting Your Makeup for Office Lighting

Understanding Office Lighting

Office environments often use fluorescent lighting, which can be unflattering and make your skin appear green or sallow. According to a study by the American Society of Interior Designers, 68% of employees complain about the lighting in their offices, with fluorescent lights being a common culprit (source). This type of lighting can distort colors, making it essential to adjust your makeup routine accordingly.

Choosing the Right Makeup Colors

Foundation and Concealer

• Warm and Golden Tones: Opt for foundations and concealers with warm or golden undertones to counteract the greenish hue of fluorescent lights.
• Avoid Pink Undertones: Pink-based products can look muddy or orange under these lights.

Blush

• Rose or Apricot Shades: These colors are more flattering under fluorescent lighting. Avoid pink or reddish blushes, as they can appear too harsh.

Lip Colors

• Peach or Nude Shades: Earth tones like browns, taupes, or brick reds can look dirty under office lighting. Instead, choose peach or nearly nude glosses or lipsticks.

Eye Makeup

• Soft and Warm Colors: Avoid dark brown, blue, and gray shadows. Instead, use rose, peach, and gold shades to offset the sallow cast of the lighting.
• Brown Mascara and Liner: Black mascara and liner can appear colder and harsher. Experiment with brown alternatives for a softer look.

Tools to Help You

Makeup Mirrors with Lighting Settings

Invest in a makeup mirror with adjustable lighting settings, including fluorescent light. These mirrors mimic office lighting, allowing you to apply makeup as if you were already at work. Brands like Conair and Simplehuman offer models with these features.

Additional Tips

• Blend Well: Fluorescent lighting can highlight unblended makeup. Ensure your foundation, blush, and eyeshadow are well-blended.
• Matte Finishes: Shimmery or glittery products can look too intense under office lights. Opt for matte finishes for a more professional look.
• Regular Touch-Ups: Keep a small makeup kit at your desk for midday touch-ups. A quick refresh can make a big difference.

Interesting Stats

• Employee Productivity: Poor lighting can reduce productivity by up to 23% (source).
• Health Impact: Exposure to fluorescent lighting can cause headaches and eye strain in 12% of office workers (source).

Conclusion

By making a few adjustments to your makeup routine, you can look your best even under the harshest office lighting. Choose warm, golden tones, invest in a good makeup mirror, and keep your look soft and well-blended. These tips will help you maintain a polished and professional appearance throughout the workday.

Sources:

1. American Society of Interior Designers
2. Illuminating Engineering Society
3. National Center for Biotechnology Information