Beauty NEWS
Tips from a bona fide makeup expert, our latest find for smooth lips and rosy spring scents.
We caught up with Andrew James, national makeup artist and trainer for Lancôme SA, and chatted about trends, tips and makeup (obviously).
Q: What’s your favourite Lancôme product of all time and why?
A: That’s so difficult. Makeup-wise, I’d have to say our Teint Idole Ultra 24H Foundation (R499). It’s long-lasting, photo friendly and lightweight, plus it mattifies the skin without making it appear grey. It’s perfect for the new ‘selfie’ generation. In terms of skincare, I don’t leave the house without using the Génifique Youth Activating Concentrate Serum (R1 060) on my skin every morning. A few drops will get your skin glowing in no time, so it has both short-term and longterm results.
Q: What’s your number one makeup tip?
A: If you wear foundation, you must pair it with blusher. No one’s face has a single tone, and if you don’t wear blusher, it’s going to look like you’re wearing foundation, and you don’t want that. I believe in wearing just a hint of blusher or bronzer on the skin – rather apply too little than too much. Try to match your blusher as closely as possible to your lipstick choice. It’s very effective. Powdered blush lasts longer, but a cream formula is better for dry skin. You can also use a dot of your actual lipstick if you like. Put a dot on your cheek and blend it up to your temples, then set with a powder blusher.
Q: What’s the biggest makeup trend for 2017?
A: Brows are a huge trend right now. At a recent fashion show I did, all the models were growing their eyebrows out. My trick for full brows is to brush the hair in the opposite direction, fill in the little gaps with a fine brow pencil, then brush the hair back. You don’t want a thick brow to necessarily be a dark brow. To find the correct brow pencil, opt for a colour two shades lighter than your natural hair colour.
Q: Complete the sentence. I love my job because…
A: …of the diversity, the people I get to meet. I’m not just working with colours, I get to work with textures and new technology. I get to apply them to different skin tones and face shapes, and there’s always a unique personality behind it.
Q: What is the most common makeup question women ask you?
A: ‘How do I make my eyes pop?’ It all depends on your particular eye shape and colour, age, skill and time frame. I always say less is more. A tiny amount of liquid liner on the lash line can make the world of difference as it enhances your lashes. As women get older, they can lose their lashes, and this trick gives that area volume in all the right ways.