Vampire makeup fails when it becomes theater. The romantic version is about a single light source, a porcelain base, and a mouth that looks kissed by something darker. Here's the formula.
The base
Start with a luminous, slightly pale base, not grey, but porcelain. Skip heavy contour; instead, use a cool-toned shadow under the cheekbone for a hollow, candlelit effect.
The eyes
A smoked burgundy or deep brown across the lid, blended soft. No harsh liner. Smudge instead. A single coat of mascara. The eyes should look like they've been crying in a good way.
The trick is one light source. Imagine a candle below your chin.
The lips
Burgundy or dried-blood red, blotted. Not glossy. Stained, like you've just bitten something. Press the color in with your finger for that bitten effect.
Finish with nothing else. Vampire beauty is restraint.
