Credit: Getty
Beauty
“I’m a beauty editor and here are 16 of the best party season make-up hacks I’ve learned throughout the years”
5 months ago
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4 min read
From longer lasting make-up to bolder, brighter pigments – here are the make-up hacks you really need to know…
As a beauty editor, I’ve been fortunate enough to pick up more make-up tips than I can count over the years. From quizzing the industry’s top make-up artists backstage at fashion week to learning tricks firsthand on magazine photoshoots, I’ve had the privilege of discovering the insider secrets that help your make-up to truly last.
And, let’s face it, the festive season demands make-up that does it all – stays flawless through a full Christmas dinner and sparkles effortlessly through to the new year countdown. Luckily, sharing what I’ve learned is also part of my job. So, here are 16 of the best make-up hacks I’ve picked up over the years – the ones you need to know for the festive season…
Use white eyeliner to brighten tired eyes
Instead of reaching for your usual black kohl, switch to a white or nude liner on your lower waterline. It instantly makes your eyes appear bigger and brighter – perfect for looking fresh after a few late nights.
Shop Victoria Beckham Instant Brightening Waterline Pencil at Selfridges, £26
Layer your highlighter for a multidimensional glow
Start with a cream or liquid highlighter as a base, then lightly dust a powder highlighter on top. The layering effect creates a radiant glow that also photographs beautifully.
Apply blusher higher on your cheeks
For a lifted, snatched finish, place your blusher higher on your cheekbones rather than the apples of your cheeks. This hack is especially great if you’re wearing a festive updo.
Warm up your eyelash curler
Hold your eyelash curler under a hairdryer for a few seconds before curling. The heat helps lock in the curl, much like a curling iron does for your hair. Just test it on your hand first to ensure it’s not too hot!
Use a damp brush for metallic eyeshadow
To make metallic or shimmer eyeshadows pop, dampen your eyeshadow brush with a setting spray before applying. The wet texture amplifies pigment and adds a foiled effect.
Shop Charlotte Tilbury Hypnotising Pop Shots Diamond Eyes at Cult Beauty, £25
Fix clumpy mascara with a clean spoolie dipped in micellar water
Got clumps after applying mascara? Gently comb through your lashes with a clean spoolie dipped in micellar water to remove excess product without ruining the look.
Shop Bioderma Sensibio H2O Cleansing Micellar Water for Sensitive Skin at Lookfantastic, £18
Apply highlighter to your ears
Yep, your ears! If your ears are visible (especially with an updo), adding a touch of highlighter to the tops of them gives a cohesive glow.
Shop RMS Beauty Champagne Rosé Luminizer at Cult Beauty, £39
Flip your setting spray
Instead of spraying your face after applying make-up, spritz your brush or beauty sponge with setting spray before applying foundation or concealer. This technique helps lock everything in from the first step.
Shop L’Oréal Paris Infallible 3-Second Setting Spray at Lookfantastic, £9.99
Layer eyeliner with black eyeshadow
After applying your eyeliner, set it with a matte black eyeshadow using a small angled brush. It prevents smudging and adds intensity to your look.
Prime your lashes with baby powder
Before applying mascara, dust your lashes with a light layer of baby powder using a fluffy brush. It creates volume and helps the mascara adhere for a thicker, fuller look.
Use Vaseline for a glossy eye look
For an editorial-style wet eye look, apply a small amount of Vaseline or clear lip balm over your eyeshadow. It gives a high-shine, dewy finish that’s great for the festive season.
Shop Vaseline Original Lip Therapy Lip Balm Tin at Boots, £2.45
Set your lipstick with translucent powder
After applying your lipstick, lightly dust translucent powder over a tissue placed on your lips. This trick locks in colour and creates a transfer-proof finish without dulling the vibrancy.
Add shimmer to the inner corner of your eyes
A tiny dab of champagne or pearl eyeshadow in the inner corners of your eyes brightens and opens them up, making your whole look more polished and party-ready.
Shop Urban Decay 24/7 Mono Moondust Eyeshadow at Lookfantastic, £20
Highlight your collarbones and shoulders
If your outfit shows off your décolletage, add a touch of highlighter to your collarbones and shoulders. It catches the light beautifully and adds an extra dose of glam.
Apply bronzer to your eyelids
For a cohesive look, sweep a warm-toned bronzer over your eyelids as eyeshadow. It’s quick, effortless and ties your make-up together.
Shop Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra Powder Bronzer at Lookfantastic, £44
Add glitter with a flat brush
To avoid glitter fallout, use a flat brush to gently press glitter onto your lids after applying a tacky primer. This ensures it stays put all night long.
Shop Anastasia Beverly Hills Brush - #18 at Lookfantastic, £18
Images: Getty; courtesy of brands
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