Whether for fun or personal interest, the following drag queen makeup application tips will help you create a feminine and over-the top look perfect for the bright lights and the big city.
Drag Queen Makeup Application Tips

While drag queens can be found anywhere in the world, it's in the heart of major metropolitan cities that they thrive. Under the lights and on the runway, men dressing as women can put on quite an outrageous show. If you're interested in performing in drag, these drag queen makeup application tips will help you create a memorable character.
Remove facial hair: For obvious reasons, before you can strut down the catwalk, you'll need to shave all facial hair to create a smooth surface. While many men rely on a traditional shaver, some opt for full facial waxing for smoother results and less maintenance. Be forewarned if you opt for waxing, you'll need to allow hair to grow at least 1/4" in between sessions. If you shave, make sure you follow up with an after-shave lotion to help remove redness and to prep the skin for makeup application.
Moisturize and prime: Before you can begin applying drag queen makeup, apply a heavy moisturizer followed by a pre-makeup primer to help even out the porosity of your skin and allow for a more fluid makeup application.
Apply foundation: Using a makeup sponge, liberally apply a liquid or powder foundation and extend the coverage to the hairline and down the neck to ensure an even complexion. If you need help choosing the right shade, visit any cosmetic counter at your local department store and ask a beauty advisor for help.
Set with powder: Once the foundation has been applied liberally, you'll need to set the finish with a powder. Use a brush and lightly dust a veil all over your face and neck.
Apply blush: Opt for a bold and brash hue of blusher for best results. A bright red, paprika or pink looks best when creating a drag queen style. Apply blush liberally to the apples of your cheeks and blend.
Apply eyeshadow: To create a runway-worthy drag queen eye, make sure you opt for a bright neon eyeshadow that pops. Choose fashion hues like blue, green or purple for outlandish style. Apply liberally up to the brow bone.
Apply eyeliner: Creating a cat eye can take some practice, so feel free to skip this step if your skills aren't up to par. If you have a steady hand, you can create a bold line by sweeping liquid liner across the top of your lash line and swooping it at the end.
Apply lashes: Even if you have long and lush lashes, many men find applying falsies is the best way to create a drag queen look. Trim lashes to fit your lid as needed and apply carefully with adhesive.
Lips: For a sexy pout, line lips with a neutral lip liner and extend the natural lip if needed. Fill in lips with a bold red or pink lipstick and top with a clear gloss.
Practice Makes Perfect

If you're new to the world of drag, you'll find practice makes perfect in the makeup department. Be prepared for plenty of mistakes and don't get discouraged. Once you've mastered the basic art of makeup application you can feel free to dabble in more advanced application techniques. If you need assistance or a tutorial in makeup application, be sure to enlist the service of a professional in either a beauty store or salon environment. Plenty of hair salons offer free makeup application lessons with the purchase of cosmetics, while the same service is free at beauty retailers such as Ulta or Sephora. Find a place you're comfortable in and practice until you arrive at the perfect look.