SMALL CHANGES, BIG DIFFERENCE
Sometimes it’s the small tweaks to your makeup routine that can give a better result. Here’s how to nail the beauty basics to look your best.
How to conceal like a pro
To master the art of no-makeup makeup, use concealer to brighten, correct, and a loose powder to set. Intuitively you probably choose a concealer that is lighter than your skin, perhaps because under-eye shadows are darker, and if you have pigmentation spots, those will be darker too. The reality of this is that it can make the skin look grey or ashy, so pick a shade that’s like your skin and pinpoint where the concealer is needed by tilting your chin down towards your chest while looking up into a mirror. This highlights all the little lines and shadows around the face so applying your concealer to those areas will instantly brighten your look. Use a small flat brush or a makeup sponge to blend into the skin, working gently to soften the edges. If you’re using foundation, apply it now, and you’ll find you need much less. Set with a light dusting of loose powder and say hello to a brighter you.
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How to use a bronzer all year round
A good bronzer used in the right way brings a natural-looking warmth to year-round makeup. For a modern finish go for cream formulations as they create an effortless, natural and outdoorsy vibe. The placement is just as important as the product you use. Aim to apply where the sun naturally hits the face, targeting the outer perimeters first, then working it across the forehead, adding more depending on the finish you want. Bronzer is all about creating an illusion, so it shouldn’t be noticeable. Go for one that is one shade darker than your skin tone, stay away from formulas that look orange, and apply with a light hand. You can always build up the colour and always remember to blend well.
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How to build a modern brow
The power brow has a face-framing fullness that suits all face shapes and brings instant definition to the eyes. Start by using a spoolie to work in a clear brow gel, brushing upwards from the start of the brow, then lightly feathering up and out from the halfway point to the tail. Patchy areas will now be exposed, especially towards the ends where hairs can be sparse. Now is the time to add colour, but apply with a light touch. Using minimal colour will create shape and density without leaving brows looking too done. Mimic thin hair-like strokes with a skinny pencil or fine-nipped pen in tones towards the ashier end of the spectrum. Your brows are a cooler shade than you think.
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How to wear the right red lipstick for you
A red lip is a classic look. It's easy, instantly makes your complexion pop, and works well on naked skin. The best way to wear it is not overlined or overdone, but just a neat shape that gives a vibrancy to a bare face. But, you need the right shade. Wine red pops against dark skin and deep brown or orange-red works well with summer-tanned skin. Try a strong red with a hint of pink on medium skin with neutral or warm undertones, and coral reds on fair skin with neutral to warm undertones. As for the rest of your face, mix a highlighter with your moisturiser, and go for a relaxed eyeshadow and fluttery lashes. This will keep your overall look natural rather than overdone.
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How to DIY your nails for a better manicure
A clean and polished look on your nails is elegant, longer wearing, and goes with everything. The best way to home manicure your nails is to focus on three elements: a clean cuticle, nourished skin, and a thin coat of sheer nude polish. At one time, ‘nude’ was one shade suits all, but there are so many now, some with slightly more pink, peach, or brown undertones that suit everybody. The best shape of nails and one that suits most hands is a soft square. Use a thin emery board to file, first to a length you’re happy with, making sure they are even, and then go down the sides of each nail, ever so slightly shaping them inwards to give the illusion of a longer nail bed. Cuticle care is important so adopt a regular hand care routine to stop dead skin build-up, exfoliate weekly, then use pushy tool to push back cuticles and a clipper to get rid of dead skin. Fnish with cuticle oil and moisturiser. As for painting, start in the middle and apply close to the cuticle as you can, next take the brush down the sides, using a fine art brush to fill hard-to-reach places. Always do a second coat and finish with a gel-effect topcoat for a plump, high-shine finish.
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