By BR Tabatha
We're living in glorious beauty times. Inclusivity is spreading its wings and making its way across the cosmetic landscape. Highlighters continue to rule the world. We can now buy quality straighteners without breaking the bank. And if we want to go out all day and night without having to reapply our makeup, we can.
But if you're planning on going hard and not going home - or if you don't have time to do a touch up after a day at the office and before heading out for dinner and/or drinks - you're going to need flawless makeup application. So, what do you need to do to create a look that sticks? Read on!
All good plans start with a solid foundation, and it helps to understand that which causes makeup to disappear into thin air. We're talking about oil. You're going to want to suck that stuff up, and then ensure it's not going to reappear. So, first things first, choose a primer that suits your skin type. If you're prone to oily patches or have oily skin, then it pays to use a mattifying primer to ensure your base has the best chance of going the distance.
Once you've primed, break out the big guns... foundation. Not just any foundation. The stuff that's designed to last a whole day and night.
Recently we've been introduced to the magical ways of Maybelline's Superstay range, and the 24HR Full Coverage Foundation has quickly found a place in our hearts, as well at those who trialled it who've given it a fantastic overall rating of 4.2/5. Designed to go the distance while providing a full coverage finish, it's a fantastic option for those who want to keep their base looking flawless for hours and hours... and hours.
Once you've applied your foundation, get concealing any blemishes and under-eye circles. At this point you'd usually powder up - but not yet! Not if you're going for an all-day all-night look! If your skin has a habit of eating your blush and bronzer then consider switching up your powder formulation to a cream or liquid product. These products give excellent longevity - which is why, especially with a stain, you need to work fast to blend it out. But once it's there, it's there. So if you're keen to go for stickability gold - choose cream or liquid for your bronze and blush, then once that's on... Bring on the translucent setting powder! Dust it over your face to set everything and lock it in place.
What about highlighter? This is where we believe you do you. If you like liquid, use a liquid. Cream? Use a cream. Powder? Then powder up!
Bonus tip! If you are really going for a more is more look - layer up. So get your creams and liquids down - dust your face with setting powder, then go in again with your blush, bronzer and highlighting powders. This look isn't for everyone, it can be a bit much on some skin types, but if you want to try it, then do - after all, it's makeup, it'll wash off!
Want your eyes to pop 'til you drop? Don't forget to prime your lids before applying shadows. Emphasise your peepers with a water-resistant eyeliner, and a long-wear water-resistant mascara. Your brows too can go the extra mile with a little help - Maybelline Brow Tattoo Gel Tint will give you defined brows and a colour-boost. Once your brows are in place, swipe a little brow gel through and your eye look is complete.
Want to ensure your lips are sealed? Grab a longwear liquid lip, like Maybelline's Superstay Matte Ink and apply. If you're going to be noshing on oily foods you may have to reapply, but if you're sipping all ladylike on liquids and eating foods that don't require much lip mashing, you'll find your liquid lip needs minimal touch-ups.
Last, but certainly not least? A finishing spray is a must! Spritz to your heart's content, then stride out the door knowing your look is locked in.
So eager to try the 24th full coverage foundation but am being good and waiting until my current foundation is all gone :-)