The holidays are almost here, which means it’s time to catch up with family and friends. During these reunions, the phones will inevitably come out to snap some photos to post on social media. Because if you don’t document it, it didn’t happen!
Have you ever done your make-up only to see it on Instagram looking like a hot mess later? This is because what looks good in real life on our three-dimensional faces doesn’t always translate onto a 2D image. Your product can appear harsh and your face flat, with obvious shiny or powdery residue. There are, however, ways to do your face beat so that you look good in person and on screen. Here’s how to apply yours so that no filter is necessary!
Prepare your skin
If your skin is dry, rough, bumpy or flakey, this can be picked up in your holiday snaps. This is why it’s crucial to prep your skin properly before you even get out your make-up bag. Do your skincare routine and finish off with a nourishing moisturiser and SPF. Then, apply a primer to even out texture for a smooth canvas.
Consider your formulas
As mentioned, the way the light interacts with our make-up can affect how it translates in photographs. Similarly, going really heavy on your coverage can make it appear cakey. Powder formulas can also make your complexion appear flat. Avoid this by looking for foundations, bronzers and blushers with formulas that deliver a natural finish and don’t layer them too much.
Be strategic with powder
A common problem many of us experience is a shiny forehead by midday (or mid-event). This can be really obvious in flash photography when the light hits the grease! Apply a translucent powder to your T-Zone to keep the area matte. But don’t apply it all over your face or you might experience flashback from the silica content.
Accentuate your eyes
To look like the best version of yourself, make-up artists recommend accentuating and enhancing your natural features rather than covering them in colour. For your eyelids, apply a sweep of a neutral eyeshadow that enhances the colour of your eyes and makes them pop. If you tend to get emotional, make sure that you reach for a waterproof mascara.
Enhance your lips
No one wants their lips to look small, shrivelled and dry. Everyone wants to have an amplified pout that looks juicy and plump. Instead of wearing a bold lipstick that could end up on your teeth, use a product that enhances your natural lip colour with a sheer wash of colour, hydrating ingredients and a glossy finish.