What are some of the beauty no-nos we should avoid when applying costmetics? L’Oréal Paris make-up director Lisa Matson shares her tips.
FOUNDATION
Biggest blunder: Using too much
If you can’t see any freckles, or you get product under your nails when you lightly scratch your face, you’re wearing a heavy layer. Always apply with a brush. Use just a daub of product, and blend from the centre of the face out. Add small amounts as you go to ensure you don’t overdo it. Use concealer to hide any blemishes.
TIP: Test for the right shade on the side of your face, rather than the inside of your wrist. If you’ve got the perfect product, it will disappear.
CONCEALER
Biggest blunder: The wrong shade
Problem areas are often covered with a concealer that’s either too light or dark, making them more pronounced. Under-eye circles should be covered with a product one to two shades lighter than the foundation. For blemishes, use a colour that matches your skin tone perfectly.
TIP: Use a soft, creamy product, such as L’Oréal Paris True Match Concealer $27.99, on under-eye circles, as it’s easy to blend and gentle on the skin in that area. Spots stay covered all day with a much denser concealer – long-wear and stick ones are ideal.
MASCARA
Biggest blunder: Clumping
Eyelashes should fan open after using mascara. Hold the wand at the lash base and wiggle from side-to-side as you move up to the tips, brushing outer lashes outwards towards the temples, the middle section upwards and inner lashes inwards.
TIP: Smudged mascara is caused by top lashes rubbing against the skin on the lower lash line. Invest in a waterproof formula which won’t budge during the day.
LIPSTICK
Biggest bunder: Unflattering colours
A good trick is to hold the lippy (wind it all the way up) in front of your face and see if the colour instantly enhances your tone. The wrong shade makes your face appear dull or wan.
TIP: Most people don’t have symmetrical lips and a bright or dark lipstick only emphasises that. The best solution is to shape the mouth (when closed) with a lip pencil first before filling in.
EYESHADOW
Biggest blunder: Dragging the eye shape down
Women tend to apply their accent (the darker shade) from inner crease to outer corner, causing the colour to angle downwards, making the eye look downturned. Apply the accent from the outer corners of the eye, holding the brush at an angle so it aligns with the brow and corner of the nose, and sweep inwards.
TIP: Some brands have handy palettes, such as L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Les Ombres Quad in Timeless Beige $29.99, that show you how to get the perfect look.