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makeup tips

Beauty

How to do makeup that will stand up to a long beach day

24th December, 2023

Summer goes hand-in-hand with long days at the beach but it can often pose a bit of a challenge in the makeup department—how do you apply makeup in such a way that it stands up to sun, sand and swims? You could skip it altogether of course, but sometimes you may just want a little extra coverage or you may just want to go directly from your towel to drinks and you don’t want to be fussing around with having to apply a full face.

So, is it possible? Yes—if you approach application strategically. Enter makeup artist Nigel Stanislaus. Nigel has painted faces for editorials in prestige titles such as Harpers Bazaar and Elle; worked with uber models such as Coco Rocha and Erin Wasson and has directed countless fashion shows and was even a judge on Asia’s Next Top Model. In other words: he knows his way around how to do a makeup look for the beach. Read on for his tips.

What products are a must for makeup at the beach?

“I wouldn’t promise any makeup to last at the beach, it’s probably more of a mindset of what is more manageable. We want makeup to look good as it ‘melts’ into your skin. Start with a good sunscreen, then a matte gel primer. Instead of foundation, use a concealer with less slippage. When your skin is warmed under the sun, makeup will start to move, the magic is, you want to be able to press blend your concealer by tapping it back into place.”

What are your tips to ensure makeup stands up agains heat and also the water?

“A long-wearing primer is great, as well as a fixing spray at the end of the makeup. Remember, keep it all sheer and for the love of god, skip all the harsh contouring.

If it’s water you want to fight, op for water resistant foundation, like M.A.C face and body. It’s light and water resistant.”

How do you achieve the polished look of having makeup on but without looking too done?

“Always keep it sheer. If you really need to dramatise, the only thing I would dramatise is probably a matte red lippy, but keep everything minimal.

Certain products work better at the beach than others
Can you talk me through step-by-step, what order makeup should be applied for going to the beach?

“[Apply your makeup in the following order]:

1. Sunscreen 

2. Primer

3. Concealer / foundation or BB cream 

4. Waterproof gel liner + mascara. 

5. Powder bronzer 

6. Lip balm/ gloss

Are there any things people should avoid when wearing makeup at the beach?

Skip the metallic highlights and contouring, they only work under studio lights. With daylight, you can easily see all the tell tale signs of makeup. You don’t want that. Always aim for the sun-kissed, natural look.”

Beauty, Shop

Are you using this beauty gadget?

26th June, 2021

Eyelash curlers have been around for eons but they’re still seriously one of the best ways to get an amazing curl every single day. I’ve got one in my beauty kit and I can’t live without it and most makeup artists I’ve worked with always have one on hand.

If you’ve not yet used one I highly suggest you do! I know some people tend to avoid using them because a) they look like they’d be complicated to use and b) they look like they’d inflict some serious damage on your lashes if not in the right hands! However I can definitely confirm they’re neither. In fact, they’re super simple to operate. Promise.

For those who are going to venture into eyelash curler territory for the first time the first step is to open the curler and press down gently at the base of your eyelid where your lashes start and slowly “walk” it out along the length of your lashes just pressing down lightly as you go. This will give you a great curl and the effect really opens up your eyes. Whatever you do avoid just clamping down at the base as this can leave you with a harsh curl as opposed to a natural finish. Once done apply mascara liberally and you’re ready to go!

I’ve rounded up a few great eyelash curlers below (I use one by Shu Uemura, but there are plenty of great options out there) so you can get your curl on at home.

 

 

 

 

Beauty

5 ways to stand out this New Year’s Eve

29th December, 2016

Instagram: @garypeppergirl

When it comes to New Year’s Eve, it’s the perfect time to go all out and really turn it up a notch when it comes to your make up. Turn up the colour, embrace shine and be sure to add a touch of drama for this one night of the year. It’s definitely the night to be bold and daring. These five makeup techniques are guaranteed to dial up your look and help you welcome 2017 with a healthy dose of glamour.

Red lip

Turn your pout into a statement-making feature by opting for a bright bold lip. A classic red is always sexy and when it comes to finding just the right shade try a scarlet with blue undertones for fair skin, orange-based brick reds for an olive complexion and on darker skin orange-reds work perfectly. If working with a bright lipstick makes you nervous you can try my easy step-by-step guide to help make it easier.

Lush lashes

It’s time to upsize your lashes and make them a stand out feature of your New Year’s Eve look. Invest in a pair of great false lashes to really amp up your eyes. Your options are endless with everything from the store bought variety that you can apply at home (I show you how here) to lash extensions that can be done by a beauty salon at your disposal.

Smoky eye

This sultry makeup look is just dying to be used on a night out. Achieving a smoky eye make look tricky but it’s actually quite simple once you know how. Why not try my smoky eye tutorial here to help you achieve the look at home? The only key is to keep shades in a similar colour scheme to achieve a seamless finish.

Pretty in pink

If red isn’t your colour try a sweet candy pink lipstick to add some colour to your pout. It still helps to liven up your look and is the kind of shade that most women will find easier to pull off.

Feline eyes

A classic cat eye is perfect for a night out. All you need is a wing-tipped liner and the help of this tutorial and you’re all set to achieve the look yourself. You’re guaranteed to get plenty of compliments when wearing this glamorous 60s inspired look.

Which beauty look will you try this new year’s eve?