Unleash Your Inner Warrior: A Step-by-Step Guide to Viking Makeup

The Viking culture has fascinated people for centuries with their fierce warriors, intricate traditions, and unique fashion. From their impressive longships to their iconic horned helmets, there’s no denying that the Vikings had a distinct and unmistakable style. And one aspect of this style that continues to captivate many is their makeup.

Whether you’re dressing up for a Viking-themed event or simply interested in replicating their signature look, learning how to do Viking makeup is a must. With bold colors, intricate designs, and powerful symbolism, this ancient cosmetic practice is both captivating and empowering.

In this article, we will take you on a journey through the history of Viking makeup and show you step-by-step how to achieve the authentic look. So grab your brushes and let’s dive into the world of Viking beauty!

Vikings were a fierce and powerful group of people who ruled over Scandinavia during the medieval period. Known for their brutal raids, battle tactics, and strong beliefs in gods such as Odin and Thor, the Vikings have left a lasting impact on our popular culture. The Viking aesthetic is often associated with braided hair, beards, and rugged style. But one aspect of their appearance that is often overlooked is their makeup.

In this guide, we will dive into the world of Viking makeup and show you how to achieve the iconic look. From bold face paint to intricate designs, you will learn all the tips and tricks to create a fierce Viking makeup look that will make you ready for battle.

The History of Viking Makeup

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of creating Viking makeup looks, let’s take a journey back in time to understand its origins. The Vikings used various forms of makeup for both practical and symbolic purposes.

For practical purposes, Vikings used natural oils such as fish oil or seal fat to protect their skin from harsh weather conditions. They also used herbs like chamomile for its calming effects on inflamed skin.

Symbolically, Vikings used makeup to honor their gods and intimidate their enemies. The most well-known form of Viking makeup was called ‘berserkergang’, which was a mixture of animal fats, blood, and other ingredients applied to the face before going into battle. This mix was believed to give them strength and courage from the gods.

The Key Elements of Viking Makeup

To achieve an authentic Viking makeup look, there are certain key elements that you need to incorporate. These elements are inspired by traditional Viking styles but can be adapted based on personal preference.

Face Paint

Face paint was an essential part of Viking culture. It was used not only for protection against harsh weather conditions but also as a way to show status and honor the gods. Red and black were the most commonly used colors, representing strength and power.

To recreate this look, start by applying a base of red or black face paint all over the face. Then, using a fine brush, create intricate designs such as swirls or lines in the contrasting color. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your designs, as Vikings were known for their elaborate face paint.

War Paint

As previously mentioned, berserkergang was a form of war paint used by Vikings before going into battle. To create this look, mix equal parts of animal fat and blood (or red face paint) in a bowl. Using your fingers or a brush, apply the mixture to your forehead in an uneven pattern. This will give you an intimidating and fierce look.

Braids

Braided hair was a signature Viking hairstyle for both men and women. Not only did it keep their hair out of their faces during battle, but it also represented strength and power. The braids were often decorated with beads or metal cuffs for added embellishment.

For men, consider braiding your beard using small elastic bands to keep them in place. For women, opt for multiple braids weaving through each other or one long braid with beads scattered throughout.

The Modern Viking Makeup Look

Now that you have learned about the history and key elements of Viking makeup, let’s talk about how to adapt the look for modern times. Here are some tips to create a modern Viking makeup look that is both bold and beautiful.

Natural Base

Since Vikings used natural ingredients such as animal fats for their makeup, it would be fitting to use natural products for your modern Viking makeup look. Opt for mineral-based products or those made from natural oils to achieve a similar effect. These products will give you a natural and healthy-looking base.

Subtle Details

Unlike traditional Viking makeup, modern Viking makeup focuses on subtlety rather than boldness. Instead of covering your entire face with red or black face paint, opt for small details like a single line or swirl on the cheekbones or temples. This will give a nod to traditional Viking makeup while still keeping it modern.

Contoured Cheeks

To add dimension to your face, use bronzer or contour powder to create defined cheekbones. Vikings were known for their strong and chiseled features, so this step is crucial in achieving a modern Viking look.

Bold Lips

For women, consider using a deep red or burgundy lipstick for a bold and powerful lip color that represents the strength of Viking women. For men, a lip balm or natural lip color will do just fine.

Incorporating Accessories

To complete your modern Viking makeup look, consider incorporating some accessories inspired by traditional Viking culture.

Clothing

Vikings were known for their rugged yet fashionable style. To add an authentic touch to your look, opt

What is Viking Makeup?

Viking makeup, also known as Norse makeup, is a traditional form of makeup that originated from the ancient Viking culture. The Vikings were known for their fierce and fearless demeanor, and their appearance was no exception. They would often adorn their faces with striking makeup designs that conveyed strength, power, and a connection to nature.

The main purpose of Viking makeup was not just for aesthetic purposes but also held deeper cultural significance. It was believed that wearing makeup would bring good luck and protection from evil spirits during battles. It was also used to honor gods and represent the different clans and tribes within the Viking society.

How To Prepare for Viking Makeup

Before diving into the actual application process, it is important to prepare your skin properly. First and foremost, make sure your face is clean and free from any dirt or oils. This can be achieved by using a gentle cleanser or micellar water.

Next, exfoliate your skin to remove any dead skin cells and create a smooth base for the makeup application. You can use a physical scrub or opt for a chemical exfoliant with ingredients like AHA or BHA.

After exfoliating, apply a moisturizer to hydrate your skin and prevent it from drying out during the makeup application process. Make sure to choose a moisturizer suitable for your skin type.

Finally, apply a primer to ensure that your makeup stays in place throughout the day. Look for primers with pore-filling properties to create a smooth canvas for your makeup.

Step-by-Step Guide: How To Do Viking Makeup

Step 1: Foundation
To achieve an authentic Viking look, choose a foundation that matches your natural skin tone or go one shade lighter for a paler complexion. Using a damp beauty sponge, apply the foundation evenly all over your face, including your neck and ears.

Step 2: Contouring
Contouring was a crucial part of Viking makeup as it emphasized their features and gave them a chiseled appearance. Use a matte bronzer or eyeshadow that is a few shades darker than your skin tone to contour your cheekbones, jawline, and temples. Blend well to create a harsh but natural-looking shadow.

Step 3: Eye Makeup
Viking eye makeup was bold, intense, and often featured intricate designs. Start by creating a base for your eye makeup with a brown or black eyeshadow. Then, using a damp brush or pencil liner, draw lines under your eyes from the inner corner to the outer corner. This will create an illusion of deep-set eyes.

Next, using black eyeliner, create multiple dots above your eyebrows in a curved pattern to mimic the iconic forehead tattoos of Viking warriors. Finish off the eye makeup with multiple coats of mascara for voluminous lashes.

Step 4: Lips
For the lips, opt for deep shades like burgundy or dark red to complement the overall Viking look. Start by lining your lips with a red lip liner and then fill them in with the same color. You can also use a small brush to draw lines on your lips to resemble tribal patterns seen in Viking culture.

Step 5: Finishing Touches
To add some extra details and make your Viking makeup stand out even more, you can add some embellishments such as faux gems or stud decals around the temples and forehead area. This will give your look an even fiercer appearance.

Tips for Long-Lasting Viking Makeup

– Use waterproof and long-wearing products to ensure that your makeup stays intact through all kinds of weather.
– Set your makeup with a setting spray for added longevity.
– Carry a touch-up kit with you, including small brushes, liners, and lip products, for quick touch-ups throughout the day.
– If you have sensitive skin, do a patch test before applying any new products to avoid any adverse reactions.

Viking makeup is not just about creating a bold and striking look, but it also pays homage to the fierce warriors of the past. By following these steps and tips, you can easily recreate an authentic Viking makeup look that will make you stand out in any event. So go ahead and embrace your inner Viking with this ancient form of makeup.

Q: What is Viking makeup?
A: Viking makeup is a type of makeup that is inspired by the fierce warriors and seafarers from Norse mythology. It typically includes bold and dramatic features such as dark, smoky eye makeup, strong cheekbone contouring, and painted Viking-inspired designs on the face.

Q: How do I start doing Viking makeup?
A: The first step in doing Viking makeup is to gather all the necessary materials, including a dark eyeshadow palette, contouring powder or bronzer, black eyeliner, and face paint. Then, you can start by applying a base layer of foundation or face paint and building up your desired look from there.

Q: What kind of eyeshadow should I use for Viking makeup?
A: For a dramatic and intense look, it is best to use dark shades such as black, charcoal gray, deep browns, or navy blue. You can also add pops of metallic colors like gold or silver to enhance the warrior aesthetic.

Q: What techniques should I use for contouring in Viking makeup?
A: To achieve strong and defined cheekbones like the Vikings, you can use contouring powder or bronzer in shades that are at least two shades darker than your natural skin tone. Use a dense brush to blend it along your cheekbones and temples for a chiseled effect.

Q: Can I incorporate braids into my Viking makeup look?
A: Definitely! Braids were often worn by both men and women in Norse culture. You can incorporate them into your hair or create braided patterns on your forehead or temple area using face paint.

Q: Is there a specific color scheme for Viking makeup?
A: While there are no strict rules for color schemes in Viking makeup, dark and earthy tones are commonly used to create a fierce and intimidating look. However, you can also experiment with different colors and designs to make the look your own.

In Conclusion, Viking makeup is a bold and unique style that has gained popularity in recent years. Its roots can be traced back to the fierce warriors of Norse culture, and its modern interpretation allows individuals to channel their inner strength and warrior spirit. By following the steps outlined in this guide, one can achieve a stunning Viking-inspired look that captures the essence of this powerful and fearless culture.

Firstly, it is important to consider the significance of Norse mythology and culture when exploring Viking makeup. The symbols and designs used in traditional Norse art serve as a source of inspiration for many aspects of the makeup look, including the use of runic symbols and braided hairstyles.

Additionally, understanding the basics of color theory is crucial in achieving an authentic Viking makeup look. Bold colors such as red, black, and gold were commonly used by Vikings in their clothing and armor to symbolize power and wealth – incorporating these colors into your makeup can add an extra level of authenticity.

Furthermore, the steps outlined in this guide emphasize the importance of embracing your natural features while creating your Viking look. Whether you have fair skin or facial hair, there are ways to incorporate these elements into your makeup design and celebrate their uniqueness.

Lastly, while it may seem intimidating at first, experimenting with Viking makeup can be a fun