A skin care specialist has revealed the secret to beautiful makeup might actually be what you put under it.
Akram Boulaid, founder of BeautyBlurb.com, believes two products are essential before you even think about foundation, concealer, bronzer, and the rest.
He spoke exclusively to GB News about his top pre-makeup and makeup tips for a radiant, glowing look.
Claiming makeup users should never slap their foundation on without adequate preparation, the expert recommended starting with a moisturiser.
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Because this skin staple is applied directly to the face, it is important to choose the right formula for this product.
"Begin with a lightweight, oil‑free moisturiser," he advised, as these hydrate the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles without clogging pores.
Next, a mattifying primer helps makeup go on evenly and refines the skin's texture while minimising oily reflections – think a smooth and non-greasy finish.
Before applying makeup, prepare your skin with a lightweight, oil‑free moisturiser
|GETTY
Once skin prep is complete, and it is time to apply makeup to your stunning canvas, Mr Boulaid stressed picking the right foundation is paramount.
"Opt for a sheer coverage or medium-heavy foundation that is oil-free, and set with a translucent powder to prevent creasing and add naturalness back into your skin," he said.
Lighter base makeup products, such as tinted moisturisers, BB and CC creams, and dewy foundations, help create a real-skin finish.
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A mattifying primer will help your makeup go on smoothly while minimising oily reflections
|GETTY
Bonus: lighter formulas are less likely to crease and sink into fine lines, both of which accentuate signs of ageing.
When applying eyeshadow, it is important to remember that this product will "stay put and won't smudge" if you use the right primer.
Primer also allows colours to pop more and makes them appear more vibrant.
The skin specialist also advised women to pay attention to their lips, advising: "Opt for hydrating formulas without heavy oils, and apply a light lip balm before lipstick to ensure smooth application without sliding."
Note that lips do not have oil glands, which means they cannot hydrate themselves.
Lip balms create an essential barrier to prevent moisture loss, which is particularly important when chilly temperatures threaten to leave lips chapped and cracked.
Offering a final tip for makeup success, Dr Boulaid advised: "Always gently buff away excess oil throughout the day rather than applying additional layers of powder, which can clump and accentuate lines."
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