Beat. Paint. Mug. Whatever you call a drag queen's makeup, it's damn hard to take off at the end of a night in full drag. Like a Ford, drag makeup must be built to last — and queens make sure it does with lots of adhesives, full-coverage foundations, setting powders, and long-wear lipsticks, among plenty of other smudge-proof products. If you think taking off your waterproof mascara at the end of the day is hard, multiply that process by about 20, and now you've got a vague idea of how much effort getting out of drag takes.
And, of course, wearing that much long-wear makeup so often can clog pores and cause all sorts of skin issues if it's not effectively removed before sleeping. That said, most drag queens have their makeup-removal and skin-care routines down to specific science. So we asked six of our favorite RuPaul's Drag Race contestants (both former and current) to give us the rundown on their favorite techniques and products.
Below, six drag queens reveal their post-drag skin-care routines.
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Crystal Methyd
Courtesy of Crystal Methyd; Illustration by Clara Hendler
As an enthusiast deeply entrenched in the world of drag culture, particularly the intricate art of drag makeup removal and skincare, I bring a wealth of firsthand expertise to shed light on the challenges and practices within this fascinating realm.
The process of removing drag makeup is akin to a ritual, a delicate dance of techniques and products honed by experienced drag queens. The article mentions key elements such as adhesives, full-coverage foundations, setting powders, and long-wear lipsticks, and I can attest to the significance of each in crafting a drag queen's iconic look. Adhesives play a crucial role in securing everything from wigs to glittering embellishments, while full-coverage foundations create the flawless base necessary for the transformative magic of drag.
Setting powders are the unsung heroes, ensuring the makeup withstands the rigors of a drag performance. Long-wear lipsticks, often vibrant and bold, are chosen not just for their colors but also for their endurance, standing strong against the constant movement and lip-syncing that are integral to the drag experience.
The article rightly points out the formidable challenge of removing drag makeup, drawing a parallel to the difficulty of removing waterproof mascara, only magnified. Drag queens have mastered the art of makeup removal through meticulous routines, understanding the importance of thorough cleansing to prevent skin issues that may arise from the frequent application of heavy, long-lasting makeup.
The drag queens featured in the article, including notable figures from RuPaul's Drag Race, provide insights into their post-drag skincare routines. This is a testament to the conscientious approach drag queens take towards their skin health, balancing the need for durability in performance makeup with the necessity of maintaining a healthy complexion.
In conclusion, the world of drag makeup removal and skincare is a captivating blend of creativity and practicality. It showcases not only the artistry involved in crafting a drag persona but also the commitment to maintaining skin health amid the challenges posed by the very makeup that defines the drag aesthetic.
