If you’ve ever admired the flawless looks of celebrities on the red carpet, you might wonder what secrets lie behind their impeccable makeup. The answer often lies in the hands of skilled makeup artists who know how to enhance natural beauty with precision and style. Here, we delve into some of the best tips and product recommendations from top celebrity makeup artists, offering insights into achieving that camera-ready look.
Having had the privilege of working with some of Australia’s most talented makeup artists during my time as a model and entertainment journalist, I’ve gathered a treasure trove of beauty tips. These insights range from the simple to the ingenious, and I’m excited to share them with you.
Understanding Your Skin and Foundation
One of the first lessons in makeup application is understanding your skin type. This knowledge is crucial in choosing the right foundation. Makeup artists emphasize the importance of skin prep, often asking whether your skin is oily or dry. This question helps narrow down the search for a suitable foundation from the myriad options available.
For instance, dewy finish foundations are ideal for dry skin, while matte or satin finishes suit oily or combination skin. Personally, with my dry skin and age spots, I prefer a light-to-medium foundation with a dewy finish. This allows me to adjust my coverage based on the occasion, whether it’s a filming day or a casual outing.
Seasonal Shade Adjustments
Another common pitfall is using the same foundation shade throughout the year. Skin tone can vary with the seasons, especially for those with fair skin. To address this, I keep two shades on hand—a lighter and a darker one—to mix and match as needed. Though it might seem costly initially, this approach provides greater control and reduces product waste.
Here are some of my current favorite complexion products:
- Charlotte Tilbury Beautiful Skin Foundation (shades 4 and 6)
- Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter (shade 3 Medium)
- Kosas Revealer Concealer (shades 2.3N and 01N for brightening)
- By Terry Hyaluronic Hydra-Powder
Beyond the Face: Full-Body Glam
Red carpet makeup isn’t just about the face. Makeup artists extend foundation down the neck and onto the décolletage and ears for a cohesive look. This attention to detail prevents the dreaded makeup line and ensures a seamless finish. A large buffing brush can help blend everything together, and for those wanting a flawless head-to-toe finish, body makeup is an excellent option.
Products like ELEFFECT The Tint and Bondi Sands Glo Matte One Day Tan are great for achieving this effect.
The Importance of Tools and Techniques
While it might seem excessive, using the right tools can make a significant difference in makeup application. You don’t need a vast collection, but a few essential brushes can go a long way. Here are some must-haves:
- Zoeva 104 Foundation Buffer Brush
- Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Complexion Brush
- Sigma FO3 High Cheekbone Highlighter Brush
- Morphe M241 Angled Powder Brush
- Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Blush Brush
Additionally, techniques like the “tappa, tappa, tappa” method—building and layering products slowly—are crucial for a natural, blended look. This approach, championed by makeup artist Max May, ensures products meld seamlessly into the skin.
Enhancing Eyes and Lashes
For an instant eye-opener, try tightlining your upper waterline with a waterproof liner. This technique makes lashes appear thicker without the need for heavy eyeliner. Additionally, using an eyelash curler, like the Kevyn Aucoin model, can enhance lash curl, especially when slightly warmed with a hair dryer.
Maintaining Makeup Throughout the Day
Even the best makeup requires touch-ups, especially for long events. Celebrities often have makeup artists on standby, but for the rest of us, a few key products can help maintain a fresh look. Miniature versions of setting sprays, concealers, and blushes are perfect for on-the-go touch-ups.
For more beauty tips and product recommendations, tune into the You Beauty podcast or watch You Beauty on YouTube.
These insights from celebrity makeup artists offer a glimpse into the world of professional beauty. By understanding your skin, using the right tools, and employing expert techniques, you too can achieve a flawless, camera-ready look.
