Self Makeup Course: What to Prepare Before Your First Class

A self makeup course with us teaches you brush control, product layering, shade matching, and heat-resistant techniques tailored to Vietnam's tropical climate. Classes run 2–4 hours at your hotel or our Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City studio, conducted in English by a senior makeup artist. We start with a skin assessment, then move through foundation, concealer, eyes, and setting—you practise each step. Bring a mirror, damp cloth, and willingness to make mistakes; we provide high-quality products to try during the session. No prior experience required. Ask us for a quote on WhatsApp; pricing depends on group size, location, and whether you want a trial or focused technique refresh. Book on WhatsApp +84 338 762 340

What supplies should you own before starting?

You do not need to buy a full kit beforehand—many students arrive with nothing and we guide them on essentials during the trial. However, showing up with a few basics (foundation, concealer, powder, brushes) helps you practise at home after the class ends. We recommend gathering your current makeup in a small bag so we can assess textures, undertones, and whether heat-resistance matters for your climate or lifestyle. A hand mirror (4–6 inches), a damp flannel cloth, and a clean brush cleaning cloth are the only items we ask you to bring; everything else is optional.

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Which skin type needs different preparation?

Our makeup for every skin type guide covers specific preparation steps, but the short answer: oily and combination skin in Vietnam's humidity needs primer and oil-absorbing powder; dry skin needs hydrating primer and dewy setting spray; mature skin benefits from prep with serum before class so you see how texture sits. We assess this in a pre-class WhatsApp chat and may ask you to bring a moisturiser you already use, so we teach you how to work with your routine, not against it. This step prevents frustration when you try techniques at home and the results feel different.

Should you do a trial session first?

Yes, we strongly recommend a trial (30–60 minutes) before committing to a full course, especially if you are new to makeup or unsure of your undertones. A trial lets us see your skin texture, assess lighting in your space, test products for allergies, and establish whether you learn better through demonstration, hands-on practice, or a mix. You will also discover whether you prefer hotel-based sessions or studio visits, and we can tailor the pace. Many clients skip the trial and then feel rushed; a trial costs less than the full course and saves time and money later. Ask us for a trial quote on WhatsApp.

How do you match products to your undertone?

Undertone matching is the single most common mistake self-taught makeup wearers make, especially across Western and mixed skin. During class, we use natural daylight (or request a session near a window) and test three foundation or concealer shades on your jawline, not your hand. We look for whether your skin pulls warm (golden, olive, red undertones), cool (pink, blue, ashy), or neutral. For mixed heritage or deeper skin, we avoid the myth that "one shade works for everyone darker"—we specifically match to your face using comparison swatches. This takes 10–15 minutes and is non-negotiable; it changes how your makeup looks by the end of the day in heat and humidity.

What happens on a typical makeup class morning?

A typical session runs like this: we start by assessing your current makeup (if you wear any), your skin texture, and what you want to learn (everyday, Korean-style, event, bridal prep). Then we move through steps—primer, base, eyes, lips—with you watching, then you practise while we guide your hand position and pressure. We use products similar to what you'd buy locally or online so techniques transfer home. A 3-hour session might cover base and eyeshadow; a 4-hour intensive adds blending, contouring, and a full look. We photograph your final look and send tips via WhatsApp so you remember the steps. The class is held at a hotel room (we bring a ring light if needed) or our studio, depending on your preference.

Book on WhatsApp +84 338 762 340

Comparison: What Type of Course Suits Your Goal?

Your Goal	Class Type	Duration	Why It Works
Daily makeup confidence	1-to-1 everyday technique	2–3 hours	Focuses on your routine: base, brows, lips. Repeatable at home.
Wedding or event look	Bridal prep with trial	3–4 hours + trial	Includes practice run, photography, heat-test in studio.
Photoshoot-ready skills	Photo makeup intensive	2–3 hours	Teaches contouring, highlight, camera angles, setting for outdoor humidity.
Elopement or intimate ceremony	Bridal + hair combo	3–4 hours	Makeup + hair styling together; timing practise for tight schedules.
Group or bridesmaids	Bridesmaids group class	4–6 hours	Team learns matching looks; teaches you to touch up others.

Pre-Class Checklist: What to Confirm with Us

Before booking, email or WhatsApp these questions to avoid surprises:

• Location preference: your hotel, our studio in Hanoi or HCMC, or outdoor photoshoot makeup session?
• Skin concerns: acne, sensitivity, very oily or very dry—anything we should know?
• Undertone: have you been matched before, or is this your first time?
• Product allergies or preferences: do you use cruelty-free, fragrance-free, or specific brands?
• Timing: do you need this for an event soon, or is this a skill-building course?
• Lighting: do you have a well-lit bathroom or mirror at home you want us to see?
• Camera/phone: do you want photos or video of techniques to review later?

These details help us prepare the right products, timing, and teaching approach.

How heat and humidity change your class takeaway

Vietnam's climate is non-negotiable in makeup training. A course that ignores it will leave you frustrated when your work slides off by 10 a.m. During our class, we teach product layering (primer → base → powder) and setting spray timing specifically for heat and humidity. We demonstrate sweat-resistant brushwork and explain why certain finishes (matte vs. dewy) hold differently. If you are training for bridal makeup or event makeup, we test longevity in a warm room with a humidifier so you see exactly how long each step lasts. This is why classes here are not the same as videos filmed in air-conditioned studios elsewhere.

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Honest mistakes to avoid in your first class

• Forgetting your current skincare routine. Bring your moisturiser and sunscreen; we teach makeup over your prep, not as a replacement.
• Skipping the trial. A full class with mismatched expectations is expensive; a trial costs far less and prevents regret.
• Buying a "complete kit" before class. Many of our students arrive with drugstore palettes and primers they never use. We guide you after you learn what suits your skin.
• Assuming one technique works for all occasions. Everyday makeup, Korean-style makeup, and event makeup use different layering and blending. Clarify your priority before the class starts.
• Not asking about photography or video. If you want to film techniques, tell us in advance; we position mirrors and lighting for your phone.

Next steps: book your first session

Visit our main makeup class page to see service options, then WhatsApp us with your availability, location, and goals. A short chat helps us prepare the right products and timing. We offer classes in English for international clients and locals in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and by request in Da Nang and Hoi An. If you are preparing for a wedding or elopement, we also offer hotel-based makeup so you can shower and eat before we apply your final look on the morning itself.

Book on WhatsApp +84 338 762 340

FAQ

Do I need to bring my own makeup to the class?

No. We provide products during the session so you can experiment without wasting your own. However, if you want us to teach you using your existing makeup, bring it so we assess undertone and texture fit.

How long does a makeup class take?

Typical sessions are 2–4 hours depending on your focus. A 2-hour class covers base and eyes; a 4-hour intensive adds contouring, blending, and a full look with photography.

Can I book a class if I have sensitive skin or allergies?

Yes. Let us know your allergies or sensitivities in advance via WhatsApp so we choose products carefully. We always do a patch test before applying anything new to your face.

Is the class taught in English?

Yes. We teach all classes in English for international clients. We also welcome local students; let us know your language preference when you book.

Can you teach makeup for darker or deeper skin tones?

Yes. We specialise in matching undertones for Western, mixed heritage, and deeper skin. Undertone assessment takes time and care; we do not rush this step.

What if I want to learn makeup for an upcoming event or wedding?

Perfect. Book a trial first so we assess your skin and goals, then a full bridal makeup or event makeup class closer to the date. We include a practice run and photography.

Can a group of friends take a class together?

Yes. Group classes for bridesmaids and friends are available in Hanoi and HCMC. Ask us for a quote on WhatsApp with your group size.

Do you offer hair styling classes too?

We teach hair styling alongside makeup for bridal and event prep. Ask about combo packages when you contact us.

Where are Cáo MakeUp's studios?

Cáo MakeUp has 6 studios across Vietnam: Hanoi: 11 Lien Tri, Hoan Kiem · 15A1 KDT Dai Kim, Hoang Mai · D02-L44 An Vuong, KDT Duong Noi; Ho Chi Minh City: A1.12 Ha Kieu Apartment, Street No. 20, An Nhon Ward, Go Vap; Da Nang: 108 Hoi Kieng 18, Ngu Hanh Son Ward; Hue: 63 Vo Duy Ninh, Thanh Thuy Ward, Hue. Hotline +84 865 239 183 · WhatsApp +84 338 762 340.