Drag Queen Beard Cover Make-Up

A staple product for all crossdressers is beard cover. Born out of the drag queen community and the need for hiding the beard shadow under a foundation, the technique was soon adopted by crossdressers and transgender women prior to their full transition. Most males will need the help of a beard cover to neutralize the shadow before applying concealer or foundation. If beard cover is not used, then you’re running the risk that a shadow can be seen through your makeup.

How to cover your beard shadow

Prep your skin – start with a close shave to make your skin as smooth as possible. Use an after-shave balm to moisturize and calm your skin. We also recommend using a foundation primer (on your entire face) as this will help to further smooth the skin and increase the longevity of your makeup.

Color corrector – color correctors are used to neutralize the color of your beard shadow before you apply makeup. Your skin tone and beard will determine what you need – look for brown tones, greenish-blue and blue-grey tones. If your shadow looks brown, go for a pink-red color corrector, if greenish blue, go for peachy or orange, if blue-grey, opt for light to bright orange. Apply by blending a small amount onto the areas that need product with a brush. Use minimally.

Conceal – apply your concealer using a brush and stipple the product into your skin. We recommend a thin layer – you’ll be impressed with what you can achieve if you’ve prepped the skin properly, you don’t need to be caked in foundation (unless you want to be of course!). Keep patting until it’s blended nicely into the skin. Finish this step with a small amount of setting powder.