BAD MAKEUP ARTIST FAILS: 48 EXAMPLES OF MISHAPS

From the soot-rimmed eyes of ancient Egyptians to the lead paint used by the Elizabethans, the pursuit of beauty through cosmetics has a long history. However, this experimentation doesn’t always yield favorable results. The subreddit ‘Bad MakeUp Artists’ serves as an excellent showcase for these mishaps.

Since its inception in 2017, this online community has grown to 568K members who actively share images of both everyday individuals and celebrities sporting glaringly obvious fake lashes, overly sculpted brows, and mismatched foundation shades.

Keep scrolling to explore the collection, and be sure to check out our conversation with British beauty content creator Jane Cunningham, interspersed among the photos.

Oh Dear

Makeup expert Jane Cunningham, known on Instagram as @britbeautyblog, emphasizes that mastering the basics of makeup isn’t as difficult as it seems. “Makeup textures and formulas have come a long way so they’re easier than ever to use,” she shared with Bored Panda. “There’s a big difference between being decent at makeup and excellent at makeup, but most of us can scrape by with adaptable products such as lip and cheek crayons.”

She also notes the rising popularity of sheer looks and a “less is more” philosophy, which is perfect for beginners. “A good example would be that if you’re not confident applying foundation, try a tinted moisturizer instead — there’s less pigment and far more leeway for good blending and a glowy finish.”

Tiktok Ad For Eyebrow Stencil

That Shade Would Even Be Too Dark For Me And I’m Not Even White

Her Chest!!!

Cunningham asserts that the key distinction between experts and amateurs lies in the process. “Pros are taught in a very particular and meticulous way that gives them a foundation of knowledge on which to expand. Once you understand skin tones, textures, and effects, you can experiment with layering and enhancing,” she elaborated.

She provides an example: “A good example might be that it takes most of us a couple of moments to apply eyeshadow or lipstick, but a pro can be there for a long time working with the colors to get them absolutely perfect.”

Caption Said: A Soft Smokey Look

Didn’t Even Recognize Ariana In Her Newest Look. Am I The Only One Who Feels Like She’s Gone From Blackfishing To Asianfishing?

This Has Been All Over My Social Media Feeds Lately. The Artist Has A Booking Site And Charges $85

All Of The Makeup Artist’s Looks Are Like This! Their Clients Look Scary

“A happy amateur enjoys applying the product, enjoys the finished result but isn’t looking at their work with an MUA eye, so mostly won’t see that the results aren’t technically perfect. Which is fine!” Cunningham explained.

She also highlighted the importance of versatility: “A huge difference between amateur and pro is that MUAs can create perfect makeup on anyone; amateurs can often only create looks on themselves.”

Found On An Fb Ad

Her Eyes Look Tired From All The Heavy Lifting

This Shade Match Hurts

They Did Her Sooo Dirty

When it comes to mistakes, Jane Cunningham shares a perspective akin to that of the late Bob Ross. “It’s still quite easy to go wrong with foundation tones, but it’s hard to say what’s a mistake and what’s a happy accident,” she noted.

Cunningham emphasized the evolving nature of makeup styles: “Makeup looks have never been so unregimented. Personally, I don’t love huge lashes or a lot of highlighter, but that’s only my preference. If it’s making you happy, it’s not wrong!”

Even The Client Doesn’t Look Happy With This ‘Glam’

UK Mua Combining Block Brows And Feathered Brows

Those Eyelashes Are Not Even Close To Being In The Right Place

I Really Despise These Type Of Lips

“The only ‘wrongs’ I think can be ignoring hygiene around application, or as a pro, not following your client’s wishes and going with what you think is best,” Cunningham stated.

She added, “I’ve seen a couple of practice bridal looks recently that really didn’t hit the brief, and I’ve ended up doing the makeup myself on the day for one of them.”

Watching Hoarders And Noticed The Color Match Of The Doctor’s Foundation Was Off

The Entire Mua’s Page Was Full Of This Style Of Makeup I Can’t Wait For This To Not Be Trendy Anymore

Local B R I T I S H Artist. That Hairline And The Same Shade Of Brown For Every. Single. Client

It Gets Worse, But The Mua Does Admit To Being Inspired By Drag Makeup

If you’re just starting out, it can be beneficial to focus on certain skills that will significantly enhance your look.

Cunningham emphasizes the importance of blending: “If all your layers (primer, base, blush, bronzer, highlighter) are seamlessly blended, then it just looks effortless. If you can pick up anything from online tutorials, focus on blending,” she advised. “After that, it’s easier not to go wrong.”

She also mentions liquid liner: “Oh, and liquid liner! [Although] I’ve never mastered it and fully believe that some people are never meant to make it happen (i.e. me!),” the beauty content creator confessed.

From A Mua On Insta I’m No Expert But What Do We Think ?

So. Much. Foundation

She Looks So Sad

Her Skin Is So Beautiful

Ultimately, improving your makeup skills involves understanding yourself, and ideally, it should be a pleasurable experience rather than a chore.

“Just enjoy your beauty products, don’t rush to be an expert, take your time, and practice until you like what you’ve achieved,” Cunningham advised.

If you’re thoughtful about your application, chances are you won’t find yourself featured on this or any similar subreddit!

Criminal Minds “Tan”

Ummm I’m Sure That Shade Matches Someone But It Sure Isn’t Her

Her Skin Color Completely Changed

The Mua Charges £60 For A Shade Match Like That

Umm This Appeared On My Instagram

 I Am Genuinely Appalled

Clockwork Orange Full Glam

From Normal To Drag

Ugh… She Had A Team Of Reputable Muas, Posted On Ig By A Famous Magazine. Those People Are Payed Thousands For This!

It Just Feels Crusty To Me

Every Part Of Her Face Is A Different Shade Of Orange

A Mua With Almost 1m Followers

This Mua’s Work Has Been Posted On Here A Couple Times, This Is How She Does Makeup On Herself…. She’s A White Woman

A Self Proclaimed Mua

Talk About Suffocating Those Poor Pores… My Skin Is Screaming

Oh, Oh No

This Was Posted By A Big Makeup Brand. Why Is Her Forehead Tan And The Rest Of Her Face Pale?

Well

Straight Into The Hairline

This Makeup Company On Instagram. Why?

They Charge $350 Wtf

The Tone Match Here Is Awful

“Cool New Way To Do Blush”

She Used 6 Pumps Of Foundation To Create This Look

20+ MYSTERY HALLOWEEN MAKEUP IDEAS FOR WOMEN

Spooky season has arrived, which means it’s the perfect time to go bold with Halloween makeup without raising any eyebrows. We’ve gathered some of the top Halloween makeup looks from Instagram, featuring everything from iconic villains to mind-bending optical illusions. Beginners will love the easy-to-master dark eyeshadow styles, while beauty enthusiasts can dive into more intricate and spooky creations. Let’s dive into the looks!

CLASSIC WICKED WITCH MAKEUP

To fully embrace the green witch aesthetic, start by applying green body paint to your face and body. Enhance your look with heavy black eyeliner for a dramatic effect, and opt for a striking black lipstick. A large witch hat is essential, and if your hair isn’t already green, consider wearing a dark wig. Don’t forget to practice your best evil laugh—it might come in handy! And remember, if your cat looks frightened, you know you’ve nailed the vibe.

GHOSTFACE EYESHADOW MAKEUP

Channel the essence of classic slasher films with an eye look inspired by Scream. Makeup artist Kim Salgado transformed her eyelids with a bloody effect using cream face paint from Mehron and Tag Body Art. To complete the look, she accessorized with a tiny knife and bloodshot drop contacts from Pinky Paradise. It’s a perfect way to pay homage to the genre while making a bold statement!

SPIDER GLAM MAKEUP

For a combination of scary, sexy, and DIY-friendly, you can easily craft your own spider-inspired glam lashes using Glamnetic’s Lush Lashes and black eyeliner to draw the “spider legs.” If you prefer a quicker option, consider investing in creepy-crawly eye shadow stickers that achieve the same eerie effect. Both methods will elevate your look for a hauntingly glamorous vibe!

BLACK AND WHITE HARLEQUIN MAKEUP

To achieve a striking black and white harlequin look, start by applying white face paint evenly across your face. Next, take black face paint to create sharp lines, forming triangles around your eyes and a split lip effect in black and white. For an extra touch, add a few small stars or diamonds near your eyes to enhance the overall design. This playful yet bold look is sure to stand out!

SPOOKY HOLLY GOLIGHTLY MAKEUP

You’ll definitely turn heads at the costume party with this unique twist on Audrey Hepburn’s Holly Golightly from Breakfast at Tiffany’s. Create a look that embodies quiet luxury on one side of your face, complete with classic makeup and a chic updo. On the other side, go for dazzling skeleton vibes, incorporating bold makeup and intricate designs. This striking contrast will make you the center of attention!

MINNIE MOUSE MAKEUP

Dressing up as Minnie Mouse is an adorable and easy costume idea! Start with a classic polka dot dress and add Minnie ears for that signature touch. Complete the look with a bright red lip and a cute nose detail. This ensemble will transport you right back to Disney World!

Bonus: Halloween eye makeup is simple to create and can be a fun activity to do with your best friends. It’s super cute and perfect for adding a little extra magic to your Minnie Mouse look!

MELTING WITCH MAKEUP

To achieve a striking melting witch look, begin with green face paint, applying it generously to one side of your face and blending it out as if you’re covering up a bad hair day. Next, take black eyeliner and draw spider webs around your eyes for an eerie effect. If you’re feeling adventurous, use liquid latex or silicone to create that melting skin vibe for an even more dramatic look. Finish off with dark lips and smoky eyes, and you’ll be all set to scare some folks!

THE NIGHTMARE BEFORE HALLOWEEN MAKEUP

If you’re a fan of Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas, this look is perfect for you! Makeup artist @Ashslays_xx crafted a stunning Sally Shock-inspired Halloween glam using paint from the female-owned brand Elli J Beauty. This creative transformation captures Sally’s essence while adding a unique twist, making it a fantastic choice for any Halloween celebration!

PINK GIRAFFE HALLOWEEN MAKEUP

Unleash your creativity with this Pretty in Pink giraffe makeup look for Halloween! It’s a stunning design that doesn’t require a steady hand, making it accessible for everyone. 

This look features curly hair adorned with pink and white details that will leave everyone in awe. To achieve this style, you’ll need pink, white, and black eyeshadow from your favorite palette. Complete the ensemble with baby pink lips and a touch of blush for a cohesive and adorable finish. Enjoy showcasing your artistic flair!

STITCHED DOLL MAKEUP

To create a striking stitched doll look, begin with blue face paint to establish that perfect doll aesthetic. Next, use black eyeliner to draw stitches around your mouth and forehead, as if you’ve just stepped out of a sewing class gone awry. Add some big false lashes to make your eyes really pop. Finally, finish off the look with bold red lips and well-defined brows for an eye-catching, playful effect. You’ll be ready to impress and enchant!

IT CLOWN PENNYWISE HALLOWEEN MAKEUP LOOK

Get ready for a dramatic and stunning IT clown Pennywise Halloween makeup look! Bring the iconic horror character from Stephen King’s IT to life with a bright red wig and deep red eyeshadows. Grab your favorite smoky palette and dark red lipstick to achieve that unsettling clown vibe. Use burgundy lipstick and add line details on your face for an extra creepy touch. This look will definitely make a bold statement and send shivers down spines!

CHESHIRE CAT MAKEUP

To channel a Cheshire Cat vibe, start by applying pink and purple face paint, creating fun stripes all over your face and body. Next, use black and white face paint to draw a large grin with sharp teeth—this will definitely be an eye-catcher! Add some sparkly eyeshadow and big lashes to enhance that magical, whimsical look. Finally, don’t forget to top it off with cat ears to complete your feline aesthetic. You’ll look like you just stepped out of Wonderland!

GLITTERING SKULL GLAM MAKEUP

To achieve a stunning glittery skull glam, begin by painting half your face black to create that skull effect. Then, go wild with glitters—use a mix of big and tiny glitters, applying them all over for added depth and sparkle. Don’t forget to add dramatic lashes to make your eyes really pop. Finally, finish off with a spritz of setting spray to ensure your look stays intact while you terrorize the party. You’ll be the glittering star of the night!

CYBORG MAKEUP

Showcase your superhuman makeup skills with a striking cyborg-inspired look! With intricate metallic details and futuristic elements, you’ll make everyone believe you’ve just stepped out of another dimension. Use silver and chrome face paints to create sleek lines and robotic features, and consider adding LED lights or metallic accessories for an extra wow factor. This look is sure to leave a lasting impression and elevate your Halloween game!

MYSTIC RUNE SORCERESS MAKEUP

This mystic rune sorceress look is definitely wild and enchanting! Start by applying bold black lipstick to set the tone. Next, enhance your dramatic eyes with heavy mascara for a striking effect. Using fine eyeliner, draw rune symbols all over your face to add that mystical touch. For an extra spooky vibe, don’t forget to pop in some white contacts. You’ll create a mesmerizing look that’s sure to captivate everyone around you!

CHUCKY MAKEUP

This look is all about embracing your fierce side with vibrant orange hair and striking stitched makeup. Start with a skin-tone base, then use black eyeliner to draw stitches across your face for that edgy effect. Add a touch of red eyeshadow around the stitches to enhance the overall look. Finish off with a sharp lip color and fierce nails to complete your transformation. And remember, those scissors are just for show—no real cutting involved! You’ll be ready to command attention wherever you go!

OPTICAL ILLUSION MAKEUP

You’ll leave everyone seeing double with this stunning optical illusion makeup look! The rainbow-shaded eyes take center stage, showcasing a vibrant blend of colors that mesmerize. Creative artist Brigitta Varga added a touch of long-wear red lipstick for a subtle yet striking pop of color, perfectly complementing the bold eye design. This look is sure to turn heads and spark conversations wherever you go!

Splitting Apart Makeup

Embrace a darker twist on Barbiecore pink by blending classic beauty favorites with bold, edgy flair. Start with trusted essentials like ELF Cosmetics’ Power Grip Primer and KVD Beauty’s Good Apple Liquid Foundation for a flawless base on the “normal” side. For the skull design, turn to face paint from CC Beauty and create intricate details using eyeliners from Gavissi Beauty and Glisten Cosmetics.

GORGEOUS GHOUL MAKEUP

Casper may be a friendly ghost, but you’ll be the most gorgeous ghoul around! Start by grabbing your favorite black and white eyeliners to trace as many playful ghosts across your face as you desire.

CHIC SCARECROW MAKEUP

If you’re short on time but still want a festive Halloween look, a scarecrow is the perfect choice! Start by using black eyeliner or eyeshadow to draw stitches across your mouth for that classic scarecrow vibe. Then, create a cute circle around your nose to add to the charm. Pair this with some earthy tones in your outfit, and you’ll achieve a fun and easy look that’s perfect for any Halloween celebration!

GLAMOROUS FRANKENSTEIN MAKEUP

Add a fun twist to the classic Frankenstein look with bright green skin and colorful makeup! Start by applying green face paint as your base. For an interesting touch, use different shades of eyeshadow for each eye. Then, draw stitched details around your eyes and mouth with black eyeliner for that signature look. Finish off with a bright pink lip to create a vibrant pop. Just remember, with those bolts in place, be careful not to trip as you strut your stuff! You’ll be an eye-catching and playful version of this iconic character!

TEARS OF A CLOWN MAKEUP

You can never go wrong with dramatic clown makeup, especially with a pop art-inspired twist! This style elevates the classic spooky look to a whole new level. Start with a bold base in bright colors, and use graphic outlines to create exaggerated features. Incorporate playful dots and lines for that comic book feel. Finish with dramatic lashes and a striking lip color to complete your transformation. This eye-catching look is sure to make a memorable statement at any Halloween event!

CONCLUSION

Whether you’re a seasoned makeup artist or a beginner looking to experiment, these 20+ mystery-themed Halloween makeup ideas offer a world of possibilities. From spooky skeletons to enchanting witches, there’s a look to suit every taste and skill level. So, gather your makeup supplies, let your creativity run wild, and prepare to be the star of the Halloween party. Happy haunting!