A Guide for Applying Makeup with Upper Limb Prostheses 

Learning to use upper limb prostheses for daily tasks may take time and patience. Once you establish your rhythm, tasks like applying makeup transform from challenges into opportunities to express creativity and embrace confidence. Drawing from her own bilateral upper limb prosthetic experience, Amanda Flores provides a step-by-step guide to help those with upper limb prostheses unlock their full potential in makeup application. 

Makeup is more than a routine—it’s a form of self-expression and empowerment. Using upper limb prostheses to apply makeup enhances independence. Initially, learning to use prostheses for tasks like makeup application can feel frustrating. It can take patience and practice to master the angles and grips unique to your prosthetic device. But once you’ve got the hang of it, you’ll find there is little you can’t accomplish. Grab your tools, experiment with techniques, and embrace every step of your journey—you’ve got this! 

Step 1: Foundation 

Amanda prefers to use myoelectric upper limb prostheses with a hook that rotates at the wrist to apply her makeup. She shared, “I start with a lightweight foundation—it’s a game-changer for amputees who deal with perspiration. Grasping items with your hook will take time, but with practice it will become more second nature.” 

Start by laying your sponge or brush on the counter. Grasp the foundation in one hook and use the other hook or hand to open the bottle or press the top to distribute the foundation on your makeup sponge or brush. Place the foundation on the counter to free both sides. Grab the makeup sponge or brush with one hook and use the other hook or hand to stabilize your face while applying the foundation. Take your time blending for an even, natural look. 

Step 2: Blush or Bronzer 

Grab your brush using the hook on your prosthesis and secure your skin with the other hook or hand. Brush back and forth with smooth, controlled motions to apply blush or bronzer evenly across your cheekbones. The stabilization provided by the prosthesis ensures precision while keeping your application steady. 

Step 3: Eyebrows

Use an eyebrow pencil to add definition to your brows. Prosthetic hooks can be incredibly helpful here—secure the pencil with your prosthesis and apply gentle pressure as you shape your brows.  

Amanda shares, “For added convenience, I recommend retractable or ergonomic eyebrow pencils—they’re much easier to handle with prostheses.”

Step 4: Eyeshadow

Secure the eye shadow brush using the hook on your prosthesis, ensuring a firm and steady grip. If desired, use your other hook or hand to stabilize your eyelid gently. With smooth and controlled motions, apply the eye shadow across your eyelid, building up the color gradually for an even and polished look. The precision offered by your prosthesis allows for accurate application, making it easier to experiment with different shades and styles.

Step 5: Eyeliner 

Use your prosthesis to firmly grasp the eyeliner pencil or brush. Use your other hook or hand to gently hold the skin taut and create a smooth, even line as you glide the liner across your eyelid. This technique minimizes smudges and ensures precision. 

Amanda advises, “Waterproof eyeliner is your best friend—it is the only thing that stays on all day for me with the added perspiration I experience with my prosthesis.” 

Step 6: Mascara 

Amanda explains, “Using my wrist rotator, I can easily twist open the mascara tube and pull out the wand.” 

Grip the wand securely with your prosthesis and carefully apply mascara to your lashes. For added control, steady your skin with your other hook or hand while brushing. 

Step 7: Lipstick 

Use a separate brush to apply your lipstick. Use your prosthetic hook to securely grip the lipstick brush, enabling a smooth, accurate application. Whether you choose a bold red or a soft pink, you’ll love how effortless this step becomes with practice. 

Upper Limb Resource Library 

At Hanger Clinic, we provide resources to support those living with upper limb loss, from first appointments to rehabilitation and the prosthetic fitting process. Access our library of upper limb resources to learn more.