Sometimes the best discoveries happen by accident, a mix of experimentation and luck that helps you to find the best makeup combinations to suit you. But, most of the time our favourite products, and tried and tested techniques, have been picked up from the pros. Whether it’s brand founders, professional MUA’s or our very own Pro Team, the experts who work with complexion on a daily basis have the insider knowledge that take your makeup game to the next level. The start of a new season presents a natural opportunity to step back, take stock and refresh your skill set and makeup kit. Here, we chat to seven experts to discover their best complexion perfecting tips for you to try at home…
Rose-Marie Swift, founder of Rms Beauty
When you need a little extra help with a concealer, make sure you choose one without the typical drying agents such as talc, clay or alcohol. As the last thing you want when using a concealer is dry looking skin under the eyes as this is such a sensitive area. I always recommend the Rms beauty “Un”Cover-Up Concealer, which is hydrating and provides the perfect level of coverage,” says Rose-Marie.
Zoe Taylor, Makeup Artist
“The trend for perfect skin with no makeup is massive right now. My latest obsession is applying Sisley’s Phyto Poudre Libre directly over moisturiser instead of using a full foundation. To apply, I use fluffy eyeshadow brush and buff this beautiful finely milled powder into the areas where coverage is needed and leaving the rest of the skin naked for a natural finish,” says Zoe.
Arif Khan, Space NK Pro Makeup Artist
“As a makeup artist the most common question I’m asked is ‘how can I achieve glowy skin?’ The key to perfecting glowy skin is all about product layering and using multiple liquid products to create a dewy look. I love using the Kevyn Aucoin Glass Glow Liquid Illuminator before foundation to even out skin tone and give me that wet look highlighted skin,” says Arif.
Brett Gallagher, Cover FX Global Education Executive Director
“When using long-wearing foundation, we typically reach for matte formulas. The key to keeping them in place all day is adjusting your skincare so it works for drier and more combination skin types. For dry skin, I press Cover FX’s Super Power Antioxidant Booster Drops into the skin using my fingers to help prep skin like a serum before foundation application. On combination skins, I add a drop or two to matte foundation to help infuse a bit of hydration for a comfortable long-wear experience,” says Brett.
Maria Hatzistefanis, founder of Rodial
“For me the key to good complexion products are ones that provide instant results with minimum effort. To help lift the complexion I recommend mixing the Rodial Soft Focus Glow Drops with Rodial’s Skin Tint + SPF 20, which is a great medium coverage tinted moisturiser. These drops will work to subtly lift the complexion and create a dewy finish. They’re amazing to use when you’re travelling or lacking sleep as they literally bring the skin back to life,” says Maria.
Marc Reagan, Hourglass Directory of Artistry
“One of the best complexion hacks is clever product selection and choosing multi-tasking formulas like the Hourglass Vanish Seamless Liquid Foundation. It’s a weightless, full coverage foundation but it can also be used as a concealer when mixed with Hourglass Veil Translucent Setting Powder. Mixed together they blend to create a liquid you can apply anywhere you need extra coverage,” says Marc.
Sasha Plavsik, CEO of Ilia
“To me, the best complexion is one that makes your skin look like skin. I always use our Ilia True Skin Serum Foundation and then will mix in one pump of highlighter. The combination of these two products is so perfect, your skin looks perfectly finished with a healthy glow,” says Sasha.
