Bathroom Lighting Fixtures: Hollywood Secrets

Bathroom lighting fixtures are super important: Hollywood makeup artists demand light globes around their stars' mirrors for a reason. Get in on the secret!

I want you to picture the dressing rooms of the stars. There's usually a large mirror with a string of little light globes running the whole way around it, right?

The reason it is like this is because the actors need their makeup and appearance to be absolutely perfect – just like you!

With light coming from all directions, there are less likely to be any shadows. The actor can see all areas of their face and can have their stage makeup applied correctly. If there were only a single hanging bathroom light, there would be a shadow cast over the actor's face. Makeup could be misapplied and shaving cuts left untended.

A Mirror Free Of Shadows Is What We Want

So how does this help you and your bathroom? Well, don't make the mistake I see all the time. This is where in-ceiling halogen lights (or any type of in-ceiling bathroom lights) are placed above the mirror where you shave or apply makeup. You'll have shadows on your face and your face won't look the same inside your bathroom as it will outside.

The bathroom lighting fixtures described above (with the string of lights around the mirror) are a little more expensive but are worth the added expense. If you don't want the 'Hollywood' look, you can use two sidelights, one on each side of the vanity.

Use Halogen Light Globes

Which globes should you use for your bathroom vanity lights? The short answer is that halogen lights are the best. This is because their white light is closest to the natural light you find out of doors.

Shower Lighting Fixtures

A second area to consider when installing bathroom lighting fixtures is your shower. You can get all-in-one bathroom light exhaust fans to place above your shower. I like the ones that come with heat also, for cold winter days. However, if you have a transparent shower screen (perspex or glass) you may not need a lighting fixture above your shower, as the light will come in from elsewhere in your bathroom.

Bathroom Ceiling Lights

A third area in your bathroom to keep in mind is the ceiling, or overhead light. You'll have a vast range of bathroom lighting fixtures to choose from, such as the pendant or chandelier, the glass brick or glass bowl, or recessed halogen downlights. Most finishes are available, including chrome, stainless steel, brushed nickel, painted metal and glass.

Where To Buy

You can find discount bathroom lighting fixtures online, or by joining a buyer's club. Just like with anything, I would rarely pay full price and keep in mind that everything is negotiable.

Hollywood, Broadway and London's West End have a lot to teach us when it comes to lighting and décor. Just about the only thing I wouldn't recommend from Hollywood's arsenal is putting a star on your bathroom door!