6 Of The Best Makeup Tricks

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From creating a seamless base to filling in your brows, mastering liquid liner and applying a bold lipstick, the Space NK Pro Team share their best makeup hacks to ensure you always know how to create a flawless look whatever the occasion.

1. Preparation Is Key

Following a good skincare regime is vital for seamless looking makeup, no matter what look you’re going for. “Always start with clean skin and be sure to massage in your moisturiser or serum properly,” suggests Renee Efthymiou, Pro Artist at Space NK. “By working the product in to your skin, you will encourage blood flow which will help with lymphatic drainage and reduce any unwanted puffiness.” Fresh’s Rose Deep Hydration Face Cream makes for a good everyday moisturiser thanks to its time-releasing technology which delivers hydration, balance and protection. The vitamin-rich, all-natural formula also works to calm and soothe.

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2. Always Apply A Primer

A primer can make all the difference when looking to achieve a perfect-looking complexion. “Always apply a primer to the skin before makeup as it gives a much smoother finish and helps all of your makeup to grip to the skin and last a lot longer,” explains Tiniquka Fletcher, Space NK’s Pro Artist. Charlotte Tilbury’s Wonderglow Primer instantly adds luminosity and blurs any imperfections or fine lines.

3. Pay Attention to Your Brows

“Brows can really lift the eyes if defined the right way,” explains Space NK’s Senior Pro Artist, Arif Khan, who suggests filling them in lightly from the top of the brow rather than the bottom to avoid reducing your eyelid space. “Do not forget to set with a brow gel,” he adds. “This will really help to bring back the textures of the hairs and this final touch will not only keep your brows in place, but it will give a realistic and multi-dimensional finish.” Try filling in by using Hourglass’ Arch Brow Sculpting Pencil and then using Chantecaille’s Full Brow Perfecting Gel to finish.

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4. Try Liquid Blushers and Bronzers

Liquid formulas work wonders for those seeking a natural-looking finish as they just melt into the skin with no lines to worry about blending out. “Liquid blushes and bronzers are extremely versatile and should be a staple in everyone’s makeup bag,” explains Renee. “They really suit all skin types – especially dry and ageing skin as they do not accentuate fine lines or pores. What’s more, liquid formulas also work well for lip stains and adding colour to the eyes.” NARS’ iconic Orgasm Liquid Blush will instantly brighten cheeks when dabbed in with your fingertips on the apples of your cheeks.

5. Tidy Up Lipstick with Concealer

Applying a bold lip colour is no mean feat. The colour can bleed or smudge and it is often difficult to get a precise line. Tiniquka recommends always using a concealer to correct any errors. To do this, take a thin brush like the Space NK 305 Brush and touch up any edges. Surratt’s Surreal Skin Concealer will blur any imperfections

6. Map Out Winged Eyeliner First

Liquid eyeliner is undeniably the toughest to master since it requires a steady hand and symmetry on both eyes. Arif’s top tip for simple liner is to keep your pen or brush horizontal and stamp your liner across the lash line. “For a more dramatic winged liner, use an angled brush (like the Space NK 304) and a brown eyeshadow to map out the wing on both sides first,” he says. “If you get it wrong, you can easily remove the eyeshadow with a cotton bud and re draw it. Once you have the shape you like, trace over with your liquid liner for the perfect feline flick!” Charlotte Tilbury’s Feline Flick features a fine calligraphy brush applicator and ergonomic rubber handle making it ideal for first-timers.