make-up mistakes

We all make ‘em. Here’s how to fix them.

Make-up problem 1: You have dark rings under your eyes. What you can do Dark rings can be genetic, or they could be a temporary problem as a result of too little sleep, sinus problems or an unhealthy lifestyle. Use a good concealer.

Make-up problem 2: Your foundation doesn’t match your complexion. What you can do There are now foundations on the market that can make small adaptations to match your skin tone. However, it’s still not easy to find exactly the right shade. We’ve all made expensive mistakes. Good idea Always test foundation in natural light – not in the artificial light in shops, which is slightly green and could confuse you. Take a mirror with you when buying foundation. Choose the three shades closest to your skin tone and apply them to your jaw line. Then go outside and look at the colours in natural light before making your choice. Or ask the consultant for samples you can try out at home.

Make-up problem 3: You have trouble using the fiddly little make-up brushes and sponges that come with eyeshadow, blusher, and so on. What you can do If you want to apply make-up like an expert, you need the right tools. Choose good-quality, professional make-up brushes. There are five basic brushes every professional make-up artist relies on. A powder brush – not too big and slightly rounded. A blusher brush – smaller than a powder brush, and can also be used to shade eyeshadow. A small, flat, rounded eyeshadow brush. A small, flat brush with diagonal bristles – for getting into the corners of the eyes and up against the lashes. A lip brush. Good idea Besides the basic ones, there are two other indispensable brushes: the MAC Foundation Brush (R295) and Bobbi Brown’s Eyeliner Brush (R100). The foundation brush helps you to apply foundation evenly. Use the small, firm eyeliner brush to apply liquid eyeliner, or when using eyeshadow as eyeliner.

Make-up problem 4: Your mascara has no impact. What you can do Mascara is highly specialised nowadays and can produce dramatic results. Whether it’s volume, length or definition you’re after, choose one that will work for you and a product that’s tailored to your needs.