If the viral Latina make-up on South Asian features trend proves anything, it is that the bold, sultry, and unapologetically glamorous looks are a match made in heaven for tropical girlies. The golden highlighters, warm brown contours, and deep nude lip shades that define Latina glam effortlessly enhance brown skin, which explains why these make-up transitions are no less than gorgeous on South Asian features.
Besides, the catchy music and the dramatic transitions that the trend brings with it are so worth it. So if you’ve been planning to recreate the Latina make-up look but don't know where to start, here’s a short guide to everything you need to know.
Prep and perfect your base
Begin by hydrating your skin for a smooth, fresh canvas. Apply a dewy primer to enhance luminosity and create a seamless base. Choose a medium-to-full coverage foundation that not only evens out your complexion but also enhances your skin’s natural radiance. Blend the foundation evenly using a damp beauty sponge or dense brush for flawless coverage.
Brighten and sculpt your face
To brighten and define your face, apply a creamy concealer under your eyes, on the centre of your forehead, down the bridge of your nose, and along your chin. This will create an illusion of a lifted, more sculpted face. For warmth and dimension, use a cream bronzer in the hollows of your cheeks, along your jawline, and on your forehead. Keep your blush warm-toned and soft—apply it only on the cheekbones, ensuring it's well-blended to avoid harsh lines.
Set everything with a light dusting of translucent powder to lock in your base, focusing on areas that tend to get oily, like the T-zone. Layer a powder bronzer over the cream bronzer to build warmth and depth, then apply a golden-toned highlighter to the tops of your cheekbones, along the nose tip, and cupid’s bow for a glowing finish.
Define your brows
Bold, lifted brows are a hallmark of Latina beauty. Begin by outlining and filling in sparse areas using a brow pencil that matches your hair colour. Aim for a natural, yet slightly arched shape to lift the face. For added definition, run concealer along the bottom of your brows for a clean, sharp edge. Set your brows with a strong-hold gel to keep them in place throughout the day, ensuring they maintain their lifted shape.
Sultry, Smoky Eyes
Latina eye make-up is all about sultry, warm, and slightly dramatic looks. Start by applying a warm brown or caramel shade to the crease to create depth and act as a transition colour. Deepen the outer corners with a darker brown or bronze to add definition and a smoky effect. Layer a shimmer or metallic shadow—gold or champagne tones work best—onto the eyelids for a radiant, glowing finish.
Next, line your eyes with black eyeliner. Whether you go for a bold winged look or a softer, smudged-out style, make sure the line is defined. Add volumising mascara or fluttery false lashes to elevate the drama. For the ultimate glam touch, apply a small amount of shimmer to the inner corners of the eyes and brow bone for an added pop of light.
Juicy, defined lips
Start by slightly overlining your lips with a brown or nude lip liner that follows the natural contour of your lips. This will define and plump the lips without looking overly drawn. Fill in with a nude, warm brown, or deep berry lipstick for a rich, sophisticated hue. Top with a generous coat of high-shine gloss to give your lips a luscious, plump effect.
Set and glow
To ensure your make-up lasts all day, set everything in place with a radiant finish setting spray. This will enhance the dewy glow and lock in your look. If necessary, touch up your T-zone with a light dusting of translucent powder to control shine without dulling your glow.
Pin-straight hair for the ultimate Latina vibe
The Latina make-up look pairs perfectly with sleek, straight hair, adding to the bold, glamorous vibe. Once your make-up is complete, run a straightening iron through your hair for a smooth, polished finish. Be sure to apply a heat protectant beforehand to avoid any damage and ensure your hair stays shiny and healthy-looking.
Here's everything you'll need to recreate this look!
Smashbox Photo Finish Primer, ₹4,700
Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Makeup, ₹4,300
Nars Soft Matte Complete Concealer, ₹3,000
Anastasia Beverly Hills Cream Bronzer, ₹2,100
Rare Beauty Positive Light Liquid Luminizer, ₹3,200
Benefit Cosmetics Brow Microfilling Pen, ₹2,800
Huda Beauty Creamy Obsessions Eye Shadow Palette - Brown, ₹2,650
Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution - Very Victoria, ₹3,450
Kiko Milano 3D Hydra Lipgloss, ₹2,417
Laura Mercier Translucent Powder, ₹4,500
Mac Prep + Prime Fix+ Setting Spray, ₹1,950
Lead image credits: Getty Images
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