Winter in Shanghai is thankfully almost over and for mums it really is the time when we want glowing skin void of blemishes. Read below for some of my best quick and easy makeup tips to achieve a natural glow on the go.
Let’s begin with skin preparation. First of all, moisturise your skin either with cream or lotion, this is the number one most important step for flawless-looking makeup. Your skin really needs moisturiser throughout the colder seasons as cold weather and wind can dry out the skin and aggravate a naturally dry complexion. Also make sure you are drinking enough water!
Before applying foundation use a glowing primer to give your skin a healthy radiance.
Editor’s choice – "This Illuminating Face Primer from e.l.f. is a great option for those on a budget. According to e.l.f.'s website this primer is vegan and cruelty free." Beth - Editor-in-Chief
Editor’s choice – "This has been my go-to for years. It’s light, smooth, and does give a nice glow. It is cruelty free however it may not be vegan. It is slight on the expensive side, but for me it's a small price to pay for a decent cosmetic." Beth - Editor-in-Chief
Make sure your foundation matches your skin tone as it tends to become lighter during the colder months. My favourite quick tip that I give to clients is to buy a foundation in two colours (one light, one dark) and mix them together to match your skin tone across changing seasons.
Blushing cheeks are a real trend this season. Pink/peach shades can create a similar look to the blush we get from coming indoors after being outside. Natural looking eyebrows are also trending so simply brush them lightly with an eyebrow gel to fix.
Favourite eyeshadow of the season is brown - such as rosy brown, caramel, sandy brown or the colour of a freshly brewed cappuccino. The beauty of this colour is that it is so universal. It can be matte, sparkly or shimmery - take your pick! Save buying expensive cosmetics and purchase an eyelash curler before applying your mascara. Trust me it makes a huge difference!
For the lips, regularly exfoliate them using a lip scrub then apply some balsam to make them soft and filled. A wonderful technique I'm fond of at the moment is the juicy lips look. Avoid sharp lines and try experimenting with colours like deep cherries and reds that you wouldn't normally use in the summer.
For that final touch, add a small touch of highlighter across your cheekbones, the nose, and just under the eyebrows. Voila, your look is complete.
Liuba Kostanda is a Professional Makeup Artist, Stylist and Brow Master who believes that "everyone is beautiful. Makeup simply helps us to highlight our natural beauty."