This got us thinking – with the party season in full swing, how many of us are out of practice when it comes to our beauty routines? We all know the basics, but when it comes to those all-important finishing touches, it’s easy to let our skills lapse.
So we’ve put together a little reminder of some of the key beauty skills you need to keep up your sleeve. Use them or lose them – it’s up to you!
1. Perfecting your base
Whether you like a natural look or something a little more glam, getting your base right is essential. If you’re out of practice, start by perfecting your foundation application. A good foundation will even out your skin tone and give you a blank canvas to work with.
If you’re not sure which foundation is right for you, ask for help in a beauty counter. And don’t forget to set your foundation with a little powder – it will help it last longer and stop your face from getting shiny.
2. Applying eyeliner
Eyeliner is one of those products that can make a big difference to your look, but it’s also one of the hardest to apply. If you’re not used to doing it, start with a pencil liner, which is much easier to control than a liquid or gel.
Draw a fine line as close to your lashes as possible, starting from the inner corner of your eye and working outwards. If you make a mistake, don’t worry – just use a cotton bud dipped in makeup remover to tidy it up.
3. Curling your lashes
Curling your lashes will open up your eyes and make them look bigger and brighter. If you’re not used to doing it, start by heating your lash curler with a hairdryer for a few seconds (this will help to prevent your lashes from sticking to the metal).
Then, place the curler as close to the base of your lashes as possible and squeeze gently for 10 seconds. Repeat this process a few times until your lashes are nicely curled. Finish by applying some mascara.
4. Wearing red lipstick
Red lipstick is the ultimate glamour product, but it can be tricky to wear if you’re not used to it. The key is to find the right shade of red for you – if you’re not sure, ask for help in a beauty counter.
Once you’ve found the perfect shade, apply your lipstick with a lip brush for a neat finish. To stop your lipstick from bleeding, line your lips with a lip pencil first. And don’t forget to blot your lips with a tissue after you’ve applied your lipstick – this will help to set it and make it last longer.
5. Doing a smokey eye
A smokey eye is the perfect way to add some glamour to your look, but it can be tricky to get right. Start by applying a light eyeshadow all over your lid, up to the crease. Then, use a darker shade in the crease of your eye, blending it upwards and outwards.
Finally, use a dark eyeshadow along your lower lashline, smudging it with a brush or your finger for a soft, smokey effect. Finish by applying some mascara to your top and bottom lashes.