Monday, May 25, 2009

Essential Makeup tricks that will help you beat the heat and keep you looking gorgeous


Back off base
It's a simple equation: The less foundation you use, the less likely it is to run by midday. That doesn't mean you have to go barefaced, but "you do want makeup to appear as effortless as possible during warmer months," says Nikki Uberti, a makeup artist in Los Angeles. Avoid a meltdown by applying an oil-free tinted moisturizer with a damp sponge in short, outward strokes. Because the sponge is more porous than your fingers, this technique ensures uniform coverage that sinks into skin.


Get cheeky

Cream blushes add a dewy radiance that won't clump in the heat the way powders do. The best way to get a pretty flush without the goop? Pat a dab of light cream blush (try Pixi Sheer Cheek Gel) on the back of your hand to let you work the color into a makeup sponge. (Dipping the sponge directly into the pot can leave you with too much pigment.) Then blend onto cheeks. You'll get control—and thus a more natural result.


Be easy on eyes
For lid color that goes on smoothly—but won't rub off—blend a cream-to-powder shadow (SELF editors like YSL Water-Resistant Eye Shadow) from lash line to crease. Skip liner, which can easily smudge, and add definition with this bit of mascara magic: Follow a coat of your usual mascara with a layer of a waterproof version. Some waterproof formulas suck out moisture and can make lashes crunchy; doubling up will give you a soft-looking fringe that won't smear.

Make lips last
Glosses can turn your mouth into a Slip 'n Slide. Try this trick from Emily Kate Warren, a makeup artist in New York City, to transform any lipstick into a stain: Start with two swipes of bright lipstick. (Popsicle shades such as cherry have rich pigments that tint lips.) After 10 minutes, gently tissue the hue off and—voilĂ !—a stay-all-day smile.

Oil-absorbing primer
It keeps foundation from sliding off as you splish-splash.

1 comment: