How to avoid the seven beauty sins
We’re all guilty of the odd cosmetic blunder but, thankfully, there are quick-fixes for most of them. Here’s how to steer clear of the most common faux pas…
STREAKY FAKE TAN
For a flawless finish, preparation is key. Use a body scrub to buff away dead skin, then, once skin is completely dry, apply your tan with a mitt to achieve a streak-free look.
FRAZZLED HAIR
As much as we love our heat-styling, it can lead to dryness and split ends. Try misting a heat-protection spray before styling to limit damage. Also rake through a nourishing hair oil to make up for moisture loss.
VISIBLE EXTENSIONS
Hair extensions are a great way of giving your hair a volume boost, but you don’t want those clips to show. Luckily, a good back-combing brush is all you need to disguise them. Brush the roots upwards, then attach the clip below and secure with hairspray.
FOUNDATION TIDEMARKS
An unblended tidemark on your jawline screams foundation. To create a smooth look, start with a primer to add hold, then apply foundation with a blending sponge to create an even coverage. Pay extra attention to the hairline and jawline.
PATCHY LIPSTICK
Cold weather can cause havoc with our skin, leading to dry, flaky lips. Simply covering up with colour will create a patchy, uneven look. To get them in good condition, use a lip scrub to buff away flakiness, then smooth on a primer to seal in moisture. Also try lipstick with a hydrating formula. Mwah.
CLOGGED-UP SKIN
Every time you use your make-up brushes, dirt and bacteria build up in the bristles, which can lead to clogged pores, blemishes and spots. Between brush washes, use this spray to stop germs spreading.
OVERDRAWN BROWS
Big brows are still big news, but you don’t want them to look like two slugs atop your eyelids. Pick pencils and powders only one to two shades darker than your hair colour and apply to sparse areas in short strokes that follow the same direction as your hair.