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Before the advent of social media and YouTube makeup gurus, we had good old print media and literature to rely on to polish our makeup skills. Here are five classic beauty and makeup books beauty lovers should possess. The books not only reveal to you what the Gods of makeup think but it takes you back to the basic foundations (no pun intended!) of makeup.

#1 THE BEAUTY OF COLOUR BY IMAN

MAKEUP BOOKS

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This book served as my introduction into the world of makeup. It broke down what seemed like a complex and unattainable process into simple steps. This book is a classic amongst makeup lovers and women of color and features stunning makeup looks on celebrities and models from all over the world.

#2 MAKING FACES BY KEVYN AUCOIN

MAKEUP BOOKS

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From types of makeup tools and brushes to concealers and highlights and contour 101, we are introduced to the world of makeup. The book also includes beautiful transformation pictures of everyday women.

#3 FINE BEAUTY BY SAME FINE

MAKEUP BOOKS

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If there is a makeup artist whose brain I could pick, it would definitely be Sam Fine. He has been blessed with the ability to bring out the inner glow of women. His eyebrows have been “fleeking” before eyebrows became “on fleek”. This book (and a follow up DVD) offers you the Sam Fine experience in the palm of your hands, yes I’m a Sam Fine Stan!

#4 FACE FORWARD BY KEVYN AUCOIN

MAKEUP BOOKS

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Kevyn Aucoin makes another appearance on this list with Face forward. Face forward is more detailed than Making faces and the transformative power of makeup is showcased with A list celebrities ranging from Tina Turner to Gywneth Paltrow are transformed into iconic figures in history. This book is a cult classic and its jaw dropping transformations still have the same effect as it did when it was published fifteen years ago.

#5 ESSENCE BEAUTY BASICS AND BEYOND

MAKEUP BOOKS

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This isn’t a makeup book (technically), but it deserves a spot on this list. Chapters on makeup, nails and hair care are included in this fabulous guide to all round beauty for the woman of color. Its definitely worth a spot on your book shelf!

Do you have any classic makeup books that deserve to be on the list?

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