Smoky eyes or bold lipstick are great for a night out, but what most of us want for everyday wear is quick, simple makeup that will leave us looking like ourselves, only loads better.
It’s what Bobbi Brown calls a “makeup face-lift” – sneaky tips and tricks that flatter without it seeming like we’re wearing much makeup at all. Here’s how:
Touch base
The secret to a no-makeup look is to choose a yellow-toned base that matches your skin so well that it seems to disappear when you apply it. There’s no need to cover the whole face, just areas that need evening out – usually the T-zone.
Go for a super-light product – buff it on with a brush, then disguise blemishes with a little concealer rather than layering on more base.
Eye spy
The key for eyes is soft and pretty. There are some really gorgeous new palettes out there with shimmering pinks and browns that are ideal for fresh spring looks. For a bolder look, you could use a darker matte brown shadow as an eyeliner. Finally, keep things subtle by switching your black mascara for a brown one – especially if you’re fair-haired.
Royal blush
An instant face-brightener, don’t be tempted to skip blusher. Go for something that will result in a natural flush. If you prefer a bronzer, then choose one with brown and pink tones, rather than orange and terracotta.
On your Lips
The ultimate natural lip colour is a browny-pink, but the shade that works for you will ultimately depend on your individual skin tone. The most flattering hue will be one-to-two shades darker than your lips.
MY BEAUTY SECRETS
Nikki Lovrich (45) is one of New Zealand’s best-known makeup artists.
My beauty philosophy is… Makeup and hair can completely transform a woman, but nothing shines through like glowing good health. Working for many years as a makeup artist has shown me that even though cosmetics can deliver miraculous results, beauty really starts from the inside.
The skincare products I can’t live without are… I have very sensitive skin, so I need products that are mild and fragrance-free. I’ve been using Clinique’s Dramatically Different Moisturising Lotion for years, along with Cetaphil cleanser. For extra nourishment I love Kiehl’s Cryste Marine Firming Eye Treatment and Ultra Facial Moisturiser.
My hair-care secret is… My hair is thick and curly, so it takes a lot to tame it. For the past year I’ve been having the permanent blow-wave at Auckland’s Bettjemans Hair Salon. It lasts about four months and takes out the frizz, leaving it smooth, wavy and soft. It’s a miracle treatment!
The products I always have in my makeup bag are… I’m pretty fuss-free with my own makeup and tend to stick with my favourites. I use Clinique Superbalanced Makeup and Jane Iredale Mineral Powder. In the summer I love Bobbi Brown’s Tinted ooisturising Balm SPF25. I also love MAC oineralise Blush and Elizabeth Arden Dual Perfection Brow Makeup. And for lips I like Lucas’ Papaw ointment or Jane Iredale PureGloss in clear.
My favourite beauty treat is… A salon wash and blow-wave has to be the ultimate luxury. Also the occasional pedicure.
My biggest beauty sin is… I have to confess to being a sun-lover. I spent most of my teens and twenties enjoying a golden tan. Fortunately I came to my senses many years ago, but I still enjoy sunbathing covered in a good SPF30+.
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