4 Apply like a pro

Whether bronzing, contouring or highlighting, here are the application techniques that the top make-up artists use...

ON THE NOSE

BRONZER Don’t forget to apply a very light dusting in this area – it’s where the sun naturally hits. CONTOUR If you want to make your nose look smaller or straighter, blend contour powder down the sides.

BLUSH STROKES

No matter what kind of finish you opt for, don’t skip the blusher – it wakes up a complexion, mimicking a youthful flush of colour. ‘Trace down from the iris to the point on the cheek that is in alignment with the end of your nose. This is where you start to apply your blusher,’ says Amanda Bell, make-up artist for Pixi. Try Elizabeth Arden Cool Glow Cheek Tints (£28 each). Applied last, the gel formula blends easily without disrupting other make-up – and there’s a shade for every skin tone! The Ciaté Glow-to Illuminating Blushers (£22 each) also look great with a tan.

GO FOR GOLD

Metallic shades always add a gorgeous glow, whether you’re seeking pinky tones, such as e.l.f. Studio Aqua Beauty Molten Liquid Eyeshadow in Rose Gold (£5, Superdrug), or yellow golds

like Yves Saint Laurent Full Metal Shadow in Gold Source (£22).

NECK KNOW-HOW

The trick make-up artists use on a sagging neck is to sweep a little contour powder under the jawline to cast a shadow.

KEEP IT NATURAL

When applying bronzer, don’t forget to add a light dusting on the neck and décolletage to keep it looking natural.

HOW TO HIGHLIGHT

Highlighting is a must when you’re contouring, but you can also highlight alongside bronzer. Highlighting products enhance bone structure when applied to the higher planes of your face – the tops of your cheekbones, the middle of your forehead, the bridge of your nose and along the brow bone and Cupid’s bow.

ACCENTUATE CHEEKBONES

BRONZER If you’re looking for a natural, sun-kissed look,

Lisa Potter-dixon, make-up artist for Benefit, recommends using a big, soft brush and sweeping your bronzer in the shape of the number three down the side of your face and just under the cheekbones. CONTOUR Suck in your cheeks to make the hollows stand out and, using an angled brush, blend your contour colour upwards into your hairline. Start lightly and then intensify!