ALL ABOUT THAT GLOW
Chanel makeup artist shares skin care and makeup tips for sublime summer radiance
When it comes to achieving the perfect summer glow, it’s all about subtlety.
“With glow there is a sense of radiance, a subtle light, a natural lustre; this has nothing to do with extreme shine,” Julie Cusson, a makeup artist for Chanel, says. “A healthy glow is appealing and it’s so gorgeous during the summertime.”
With the right makeup products, Cusson says, a healthy glow can easily be achieved.
“No matter your skin colour or age, when your complexion is glowing it’s universally appealing,” Cusson says.
But, of course, skin care is an essential first step to ensuring a glow goes beyond just the surface.
“This starts with an efficient skin care routine by cleansing — also time-to-time exfoliating is essential to remove impurities and dead skin — nourishing, moisturizing and protecting your complexion,” Cusson explains of the essential steps to skin care maintenance. “Choose a skin care line that has anti-aging properties — it’s never too late to start — to revitalize and to bring back the natural light, plumpness and to procure vitality to your complexion.”
The last, and arguably most important, step in a skin care routine is to apply sunscreen.
“This is crucial,” Cusson says. “Don’t be afraid to layer. You will not overwhelm your skin if you allow time between your skin care routine and makeup application.”
Taking time to properly prep the skin will allow for seamless makeup application, she says.
“If you desire, apply a sheer finish foundation using a kabuki brush or your fingers in a circular motion to enhance the skin and to smooth imperfections. If you don’t want to wear foundation, you can go simply to the next step,” Cusson says. “On your cheekbones, apply a highlighting fluid, (such as) Sheer Healthy Glow Highlighting Fluid in shade Sunkissed, that will bring a sunny luminosity.”
A sheer finish, rather than a formula that applies more opaque, will provide a more natural appearance, allowing for skin’s natural texture to be revealed. Next, Cusson advises, it’s on to an illuminating powder.
“To enhance and structure your skin and features; from the chin, jaw line, the temple and to the forehead slightly sweep an illuminating powder. Don’t forget the nose,” Cusson says. “Don’t touch your cheekbones. You don’t want to ruin the beautiful glow that you previously created with the highlighting fluid.
“The secret is to use both liquid and powder. Instantly, the glowing finish will be subtly different and richer.”
For those who are wondering where exactly the glowing trend will go from here, glow on. The healthy summer shine, Cusson assures, is more than just a passing summer phase.
“The good news is that glow will still be in style for fall-winter 2020,” Cusson says.
“So, you can keep the makeup steps and techniques described above and just replace the eyeshadow palette and lip colour with new shades appropriate for the next season.”
When focusing on glowing skin, Cusson recommends keeping other elements of makeup understated. A simple coat (or two) of mascara and a wash of colour on the lips — and, voila, instant summer beauty.
“Now you are ready to go,” Cusson declares.