Is it just me, or is it practically impossible to find a good concealer? Those with high coverage look heavy on my skin, while lightweight formulas barely even get to work on my dark circles (trust me, I've tried so many under-eye concealers). Not to mention the fact that every formula seems to crease after a few hours of wear. Even as a beauty editor with access to hundreds of samples, I've still struggled to find the perfect formula. So, when I heard about the new Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Blur Concealer, I didn't even bother trying it, assuming it would be like everything else.

However, a few weeks after it launched, it felt like everyone I knew was going on about how good it was. I turned to one of my friends and said, "Is it really worth the hype?" and she answered with a hard yes. My friends aren't the type to embellish, so I did what any beauty journalist would, and decided to try it out for myself.

I don't want to spoil the whole review, but if I had to describe this product in one word, all I would say is wow. It's like a blurring skin filter in a bottle. But more on that, and everything else I want you to know, below...

Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Blur Concealer Review

The Formula

Right, let's get into it. This is a lightweight, high-coverage, hydrating concealer (yes, really), which the brand claims delivers 24 hours of creaseless wear. While I've not worn it for a straight 24 hours myself, here's what I can confirm. First of all, the coverage is good. So good that you really only need a small amount to do your entire face. Secondly, somehow this concealer also feels incredibly creamy and hydrating. Tilbury refers to it as her "elastic-stretch" formula, and I couldn't think of a better phrase.

It contains hyaluronic acid and squalane, so even my incredibly dry under-eyes lap this stuff up. However, it's been designed with dark circles, blemishes, redness, pores and pigmentation in mind, and much like the Airbrush Flawless Foundation, it delivers a truly blurring effect. Plus, it comes in 34 shades, including a wide range of cool, neutral and warm undertones.

The Application

The wand comes with a unique diamond-shaped applicator that makes it easy to swipe onto the skin. But, as mentioned above, a little of this concealer goes a very long way, so I recommend dotting it onto the skin rather than going for a full-on swipe. Funnily enough, the wand also comes with a "precision Micro-Dot tip", making this quick and easy to do so. I used both a makeup brush and my fingers to blend this out, and found that both worked just as well.

Before and After Pictures

Before

After

The Verdict

So, what's the verdict? I didn't think I'd say it, but I'm kind of in love with this product. I'm yet to find a concealer that delivers such high coverage while still feeling lightweight and natural on the skin. As someone who gravitates towards "no makeup" makeup looks but also suffers from breakouts and incredibly dark circles, this concealer has bridged the gap between a weightless formula and a blurring finish, which isn't an easy thing to do.

That being said, I do think it's quite easy to go overboard with this. When I first tested it out, I applied way too much and experienced a little bit of caking and creasing throughout the day, but I have since learnt the error of my ways. If you want to get the most out of the formula, I recommend starting with a small amount and going from there. In all honesty, I'm not sure any concealer can be totally creaseproof, but I'd say this comes pretty close.

Shop Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Blur Concealer

Shop More From the Airbrush Flawless Range

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products over the years—spanning skincare, makeup, hair and nails—and work closely with trusted experts including dermatologists, makeup artists and leading industry insiders to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

Summer is (almost) here— which means sandals, straw bags, and sunglasses are back—and so are summer makeup looks. 'Tis the season to break out the bronzers, highlighters, peachy-toned blushers, and dewy skin tints, and I'm more excited than ever. Mostly because, in anticipation of a new season (and therefore the opportunity to shake up my go-to makeup looks), I've been busy stalking my Instagram feed, saving celebrity summer makeup looks to my 'makeup ideas' folder for inspiration.

As much as I wish I was an experimental makeup kinda gal, it always helps me to have a visual reference, especially when trying a new look for the first time. From Em Ratajowski's sunkissed cheeks to Zoe Kravitz's smudged cat-eye liner, these celebrity-approved summer makeup looks are certain to inspire your creativity this year. Plus, I've pulled together some on-trend product recommendations to help you pull these looks together.

From fresh takes on glowing skin to the coolest new ways to wear blusher, scroll on for the best celebrity summer makeup looks I've spotted this year.

1. Lilac Liner

Bright, colourful eyeliner has long since been one of my favourite ways to express my makeup creativity—especially for summer. Paired with bronzed skin and a neutral lip, it really is *chef's kiss*. However, if the idea of using a coloured liner is not really within your comfort zone, take your cue from Ms Bieber and experiment with the trend using a muted shade, such as lilac or baby pink. This pale shimmering purple is super subtle but instantly eye brightening. 

Keep the rest of your makeup fairly muted and neutral to allow the liner to take centrestage—a tinted lip balm, just a touch of blusher and bronzer, and a clear brow gel are all you need to complete this look.

Get the look:

2. Draped Blush

It's official, 2023 really is the year of blusher—as proven here by Lizzo in a look that is all about the cheeks. You may have already heard of blush draping, a technique which sees blusher applied along the cheekbones rather than solely on the apples of the cheeks. Similarly to contouring, this helps to lift the cheekbones and elongate the face. It's easy to achieve and looks great on everyone.

Again, because this look is colour-heavy, try to keep the rest of your makeup neutral. Take a leaf from Lizzo's book and opt for natural-looking faux lashes, a brown toned matte lip, and immaculately groomed brows.

Get the look:

3. Fresh Faced

I'm every bit as obsessed with Sofia Richie's honeymoon makeup as I was with her wedding makeup. This fresh-faced natural look is exactly what I'll be wearing on hot summer's days, because layers of foundation and concealer is not it. To achieve this no makeup-makeup look, a subtly tinted base, a dewy lip balm, clear brow gel, and cream blusher is all you need.

Get the look:

4. Orange Pop

When it comes to glam, evening-appropriate makeup looks for summer, you can always count on the Kardashians for inspiration. I'm honestly obsessed with everything about this look—the lashes, the brows, the matte lip, the slicked back hair, and of course, the fun pop of orange pigment.

Again, this is a really great way to experiment with colourful makeup without needing a 16-pan eyeshadow palette and 15 different eyeshadow brushes. In fact it's so easy, you could even use your fingers to apply the pop of colour. Add lashes, a liquid lip, and a soft dusting of bronzer, and you're done.

Get the look:

5. Soft Cat-Eye

I've lost count of how many images of Zoe Kravitz's eyeliner looks I've saved on Instagram—she gets it right, every single time. The secret to pulling off this look is a super sharp pencil eyeliner, applied with a tightlining technique so as to appear as soft and natural as possible. To tightline, you'll want to angle your liner upwards into your lashline, applying pigment in amongst the roots of your lashes rather than above them.

Ensure that your entire lashline is covered, then extend downwards a little in your inner corners and upwards in the outer. This look isn't about precision, so don't worry if your flick isn't perfect. Finish by using a precision smudging brush to soften the liner and blend out the cat-eye.

Get the look:

6. Sunkissed Sheen

If summer could be summed up in one makeup look, it would be this one. Glowing skin, bronzed cheeks, and strategically placed highlighter really are the holy trifecta of summer makeup.

Although Hilary's sunkissed skin looks totally natural, this look is heavy on the bronzer. Use a matte product to sculpt, followed by a shimmery formula to add warmth where the sun hits, and finally, a cream highlighter to add sheen to the high points of the face.

Get the look:

7. Faux Glow

Whilst we'd certainly never advocate sunburned skin, it has to be said that a skin faux sunkissed effect is majorly trending in makeup this summer. Whether you use a blusher or a bronzer, all else you need is a large fluffy brush to recreate this look—just dust the pigment loosely over your cheeks and nose.

Get the look:

8. Peachy Bronze

Speaking of peach, when it comes to blusher and bronzer, we're seeing warm, orange-toned products taking centre stage in so many celebrity makeup looks this year. The great thing about a peachy cheek product is that you can also use it as eyeshadow, which is a great way to tie your look together. Throw a matching lipstick into the look à la Rochelle Humes, and your look is complete.

Get the look:

Next Up: I Tried Hailey Bieber's Exact Blusher, and My Skin Has Never Looked So Glowy

Brown mascara may have been around for decades, but, like many classic, underrated makeup products, it's found newfound fame in 2025 thanks to TikTok. While mascara is a staple in my everyday makeup routine, I've always worn black mascara. So when I started to see brown mascara videos popping up on my TikTok FYP, I naturally disregarded them. But the thing about TikTok is that once you've seen one brown mascara video, you'll see five, then ten, and the next thing you know, you're Googling 'best brown mascaras' and hitting an 'order now' button.

I'm now a total brown mascara convert, and I'm not alone—with over 43 million views on TikTok (and counting), brown mascara is a key part of the 'no makeup-makeup' or 'clean girl' trend that defines so many makeup tutorials on the app. This makeup trend is all about enhancing your natural features—think, lightweight skin tints that allow your freckles to show through, cream blushers and highlighters that give skin a dewy finish, and lip oils, which tint (while nourishing) lips. Since brown mascara offers a softer, more natural-looking alternative to black, its current popularity totally makes sense.

Of course, brown mascara has long since been a staple in every makeup artist's kit. "Brown mascara makes for a softer, more curated, and natural effect," says Elyse Renau, executive director and global beauty makeup artist for Too Faced. "I also love this shade for someone who is first starting to wear makeup, as it looks young and fresh."

While Renau loves brown mascara for those new to makeup, it's also a great choice for seasoned makeup lovers, providing a natural alternative to harsher black tones.

How to Wear Brown Mascara

As for how to wear brown mascara, if you want to replicate the definition that black mascara gives, Renau recommends tightlining your upper lash line with a brown eyeliner before applying brown mascara. "This gives a liner effect without it actually looking like you're wearing liner, and will make your lashes appear thicker instantly," she explains.

Scroll down to read the Who What Wear UK team's honest reviews of the best brown mascaras, including mascaras for sensitive eyes, volumising mascaras and waterproof mascaras, so you can try the trend no matter your preference.

The Best Brown Mascaras, Tried & Tested

• Best brown mascara overall: YSL Lash Clash Mascara, £30
• Best volumising brown mascara: Too Faced + Better Than Sex Mascara, £28
• Best luxury brown mascara: Diorshow Iconic Overcurl, £37
• Best lengthening brown mascara: Maybelline New York Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara, £13
• Best natural-looking brown mascara: Glossier Lash Slick, £20
• Best lifting brown mascara: REFY Lash Sculpt, £22

1. YSL Lash Clash Mascara in Brown

Editor review: "If you asked me what my one desert island makeup staple would be, it would 100% be mascara. In fact, most days it's the only product I wear when I leave the house. I think that mascara does so much—no matter if your lips are bare or your brows un-groomed, having long, volumised lashes adds drama and definition, and let's face it, makes you look alive. As I have dark brown hair and naturally black lashes, I've never previously thought twice about what colour mascara to wear—for me, it's always been black.

"So, when I started testing brown mascaras out for this story, I was expecting to like the effect but not love it enough to continue wearing it daily. How wrong I was... Since first opening the tube of YSL's Lash Clash Mascara in Brown, I've worn nothing else since. While it doesn't add definition in the same (obvious) way a black mascara does, it instead has the effect of making it look like your natural lashes are thicker and longer than they actually are. It's the perfect 'no makeup-makeup' item, and I'm totally converted." – Grace Day, freelance beauty editor & Who What Wear UK contributor

Editor review: "I’ve always been intrigued by brown mascara, but to be honest, I was sceptical as to whether it would make any difference to my very short (and very straight) jet-black lashes. The first thing I noticed about the YSL Lash Clash mascara was how large the wand was, which I initially thought might make it tricky to apply. I was pleasantly surprised, however, that the mascara didn't transfer onto my skin during application, and the smaller end of the coned brush made it super easy to get to my inner corner lashes.

"YSL Lash Clash promises volume, and I found that my lashes looked fuller and more voluminous compared to my daily black mascara without being clumpy—the perfect consistency! I was amazed that the brown shade also showed up, and whilst the difference was only slight, it gave my lashes a beautifully natural, healthy look. Am I a brown mascara convert? Whilst my only note would be that I wish this mascara would help to lengthen a little more, I am definitely adding this one to my roster of go-to products, particularly for my 'no-makeup makeup' and soft glam days." – Jerrylyn Saguiped, Who What Wear UK affiliates manager

2. Too Faced + Better Than Sex Mascara in Chocolate

Editor review: "I have extremely sensitive eyes, so finding eye makeup that can last comfortably on me all day is very important. I’ve been a brown mascara fan for a while now, mainly due to the fact that I find black mascara looks way too harsh, especially since mascara is something I only use on special occasions. After trying and loving the formula of Too Faced's 'Better Than Sex' black mascara, I knew there was no way the brown version would let me down. It lengthened and added volume to my usually short lashes. I'm obsessed with the unique shape of the wand, which both adds enough product and spreads it across each lash evenly. My only criticism is that it could be a much deeper brown hue to suit skin tones even deeper than mine." – Brittany Davy, Who What Wear UK editorial assistant

Editor review: "The last time I tried brown mascara, it was part of a set I ordered from my mum's Avon catalogue. I'll spare you the details on how long ago that was... As someone with blue/grey eyes, whenever I find myself in the position of having my makeup done for me, the first thing the pros want to do is slick my lashes with brown mascara and adorn my lids with a coppery smoke. "They'll really make your eyes pop!" they say, which is precisely why I avoid it—if I deliberately try to make my eyes look any bluer, it almost makes my pupils disappear. It sounds odd, I know, but it's true! However, I was excited to try Too Faced's Better Than Sex Mascara in Chocolate; I've used this mascara in black in the past and loved how fluttery it made my lashes look.

"First impressions, seeing the colour on the wand, the colour is very brown; chocolate is precisely the term I'd use to describe. I had been hoping for an ash brown tone, but we moved. Applying it to my lashes, the formula coated them seamlessly and on, the colour matched my dark eyebrows so well, you'd think it was deliberate. I find that when I want to wear minimal eye makeup, the black mascara I currently have in my beauty bag can sometimes come off too harshly; without liner or shadow on my eyes, this brown tone looked natural and effortless with a defined curl—the results I'd want. Trying it out in the evening with heavier eye makeup, the brown tone didn't look quite right against the charcoal and taupe shadows I tend to favour. However, going forward, on the days when I want to wear a bare lid, it's going to be a brown mascara that I reach for." – Maxine Eggenberger, Who What Wear UK deputy editor

3. Diorshow Iconic Overcurl in Brown

Editor review: "As a brunette with almost black lashes, I've rather foolishly ruled out brown mascara altogether up until now. In fact, I think the only time I've ever worn it is when I've bought it by accident instead of my usual black and retired it to the bottom of my makeup bag. However, when Dior's Diorshow Iconic Overcurl Mascara in Brown landed on my desk recently, I was curious to give it another go. Firstly, the pigment is a brick hue, which has a slight red tone to it. In colour theory, red brings out green. I was surprised that it made my brown eyes look more olive and golden, whilst remaining subtle. And, as with all of Dior's mascaras, the formulas are second-to-none. My lashes are long but stubbornly straight, but this curved brush scoops my lashes up to attention, and it's genuinely one of the only mascaras that actually holds a curl all day." – Eleanor Vousden, Who What Wear UK beauty editor

4. Makeup By Mario Master Mascara

Editor review: "I've tried a lot of brown mascaras over the years, but my current favourite is this one from Makeup By Mario. Not only does it come in the most perfect brown hue, but the brush coats every single lash for a fluttery effect, and the long-wearing formula never smudges. It's easily layered if you want to build more volume, too." Grace Lindsay, Who What Wear UK junior beauty editor

5. Lisa Eldridge Kitten Lash Mascara Burnt Umber

Editor review: "I already loved the original Kitten Lash Mascara formula in black, as the curved brush effortlessly sweeps lashes into a feline flutter whilst lengthening, defining and curling. However, what I didn't realise was how much I would love the brown version, which is actually a burnt umber shade. It's a warm-toned brown that leans ever so slightly red, and I love how it makes my brown eyes look richer. Having been wearing it for the past couple of weeks, its notable how much softer my lashes feel too, thanks to the addition of organic olive tree derived wax, carnauba wax and jojoba in the formula." - Eleanor

6. Maybelline New York Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara in Brown

7. Glossier Lash Slick Lift and Lengthening Mascara in Brown

Editor review: "When it comes to my favourite mascaras, they all have a few things in common. One, they prioritise length, as my short lashes need all the help they can get. Two, they’re usually tubing formulas, which wrap the lashes and offer minimal flaking. Finally, and most problematically considering the trend we’re talking about, they’re always black. This meant that I knew, when I was shopping for a brown mascara, it at least had to tick off the first two requirements, or I’d have no hope of converting to the TikTok-approved look.

"Thankfully, one of my favourite brands delivered an immaculate brown lengthening mascara. In just one coat, Glossier Lash Slick Mascara left my lashes looking longer, more lifted and with a richness of tone that I’ve never achieved with a black mascara. As my lashes are dark, rather than an obvious brown finish, it instead gave them a warm, chocolate tint which became most obvious in sunlight. For that reason, I can see myself getting a lot of wear out of this in spring and summer." – Jazzria Harris, freelance beauty editor

8. Refy Lash Sculpt Mascara in Brown

9. Hourglass Unlocked Instant Extensions Espresso

Shop More Brown Mascaras:

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

If there is one makeup brand that appeals to just about anyone and everyone, it's Charlotte Tilbury. It's one of those makeup brands that have hit the sweet spot where they appeal to both 20-somethings and 50-somethings. From those of us who love a barely there, natural makeup look to those who go full red carpet glam for evening occasions, Tilbury has us captivated with her versatile products and lust-worthy packaging that we all want in our makeup bags.

We've all seen the ultra-glam campaigns with none other than Kate Moss, Jourdan Dunn, Twiggy, Lily James, and now Bella Hadid, who has recently joined the brand's band of beauty muses. And if you haven't, you've no doubt seen several reviews of Charlotte Tilbury's makeup on TikTok and Instagram. (I'm looking at you, Beauty Light Wands.) As such, many of the brand's products have reached sell-out status and are particularly hard to get your hands on. And we all know that when you've had your eye on something and can't get hold of it, it only makes you want it more. That said, we now live in a world where we're inundated with product reviews on our social feeds, and it can be hard to know when a beauty product is actually worth it.

So to find out which Charlotte Tilbury makeup is truly deserving of its hype, I decided I'd try some of the brand's best-selling makeup products myself, and I have thoughts. I've listed my edit of favourites below—let's see if you agree. 

The Best Charlotte Tilbury Makeup Products

1. Invisible UV Flawless Poreless Primer SPF 50

2. Hollywood Flawless Filter

3. Charlotte's Beautiful Skin Foundation

4. Beautiful Skin Radiant Concealer

5. Hollywood Contour Wand

6. Matte Beauty Blush Wand

7. Beauty Light Wand

8. Airbrush Flawless Finish Powder

9. Brow Cheat

10. Cheek to Chic Blusher

11. Luxury Palette in Pillow Talk

12. Luxury Palette in The Sophisticate

13. Pillow Talk Push Up Lashes Mascara 

14. Matte Revolution Lipstick in Pillow Talk Original

15. Matte Revolution Lipstick in Pillow Talk Medium

16. Lip Cheat in Pillow Talk

Up Next, The Secret to Hailey Bieber's Rosy Glow? A Cult Blush Editors Swear By

There was a time in the not so distant past where your brows needed to be filled in, perfectly arched, and blocky in order to prove that you were clued up on the latest eyebrow trends. Bold brows, in general, were everywhere, with multi-step brow routines inspiring a boom in the creation of brow pomades, gels, pencils, and powders.

However, in recent years, makeup trends in general have evolved towards a ‘less is more’, natural-looking approach. Eyebrow trends have followed suit, with fluffy, brushed-up (verging on unruly) brows dominating on both the catwalks and our Instagram feeds. "I’ve definitely been using less in my brows and I know my clients have too,” says makeup artist and brow specialist Lucy Hart. "Brows are definitely a lot softer compared to previous years and I think for 2023, fluffy, natural brows are here to stay.” 

As far as experimentation goes, Hart predicts that bleached brows and the return of the skinny ‘90s brows are set to become a lot more mainstream in 2023. "Either way, brows are now all about looking low maintenance (even if they’re not) and not too ‘put together’,” she adds. "There’s an anything goes approach these days which means you can embrace your natural eyebrows and work with what you’ve got or what you know suits you, rather than committing to a cookie cutter trend like the ‘Instagram brow’.”

We love a little foresight from the pros, so if you want to get ahead of the curve or if you’re curious about what to expect from the 2023 eyebrow trends, scroll down to discover our predictions. 

1. Bleached Brows

While it’s bold in its own way, bleaching your brows is about as much of a backlash to the over-filled, stand-out brow trend of yesteryear as it’s possible to be, and celebrities like Kendall Jenner, Julia Fox, and Lady Gaga have already embraced the trend, which is a sure sign that it’s set to be huge in 2023. 

"Most people will be surprised by how good bleached brows actually look, but I would recommend experimenting with this look before taking the plunge,” says Hart. "There are already brands releasing products for this look and I expect we will see more launch throughout the year.”

Get the look:

2. Skinny '90s Brows

Skinny brows have made a remarkable comeback, but again, it’s not surprising given that this trend contrasts so much with brow looks that are now considered to be ‘out’. It also makes sense, given we’re seeing the resurgence of so many other Y2K trends from the 2000s, like glossy lips and French tip manicures.

"On a personal level, it’s a no from me, but I can see how they are making a comeback,” says Hart. "I would just warn people to be careful as brows make a face, and once you’ve plucked your brows thin, it’s hard to get them back.” That said, we’ve already seen icons like Rihanna, Alexa Demie, and Bella Hadid nail this trend. "The modern way to pull off this look is to follow your natural brow shape rather than making them too arched,” adds Hart.

Get the look:

3. Laminated Brows

Laminated brows are here to stay. The innovative technique is basically the eyebrow equivalent of a lash lift or perm. Brow hairs are relaxed and straightened then brushed up and set into place, resulting in a full and fluffy effect that lasts for about two months. "This is such a low maintenance treatment because once you’ve had it done, most people don’t even end up using any products in between bookings,” says Hart. "People often get scared by a brow lamination but I assure them they won’t be stuck to their head, and it’s possible to adapt the result to suit each individual.”

It’s also easy to achieve this look using makeup. Rather than using pencils and powders to fill in brows, instead look to more malleable formulas like gels and pomades, which allow you to sculpt hairs into the desired shape. The key is to ensure hairs look separated, so brows appear fluffy rather than blocky.

Get the look:

4. Straight Brows

When it comes to the trending brow shapes for 2023, Hart has already noticed an increase in clients asking for straighter brows. "Lily Collins is always the reference with this look,” she says. "She have very strong, straight brows which don’t really angle until the very end.”

If your brows aren’t naturally straight, it is still possible to create the illusion of straighter brows. First of all, don’t emphasise the arch. Instead, Hart advises using product (a fine-tipped pencil or powder works best) to fill in the arch from beneath the brow. Essentially, you want to extend the natural shape of the bottom of your brow in a straight line until it meets where you brow angles downwards.

Get the look:

5. No-Maintenance Brows

This is the category I (firmly) sit in. Ever since the pandemic put a stop to my bi-monthly threading appointments I’ve taken a much more low maintenance approach to my brows. I no longer care if they’re looking overly thick and instead I’ve learned to embrace their natural shape—enhanced with just a touch of clear brow gel, and I’ve started using brow serums to address the gaps in them that I used to fill in with pencil. "People are focusing more on using brow treatments that they can maintain their brows with rather than layering loads of products on,” says Hart. "I myself have super full brows so applying thick product is just not needed,” she adds. 

If you’re not yet ready to step away from your brow routine, just take a softer approach. "Try a skinny brow pencil if you’re into more definition but apply it super soft on the skin so you can build it gradually,” says Hart. "I’ll still sometimes use pomade for my clients but the tiniest bit ever on an angled brush to create hair-like strokes, and you can always use a spoolie to remove any access product.”

Get the look:

Next Up: A Brow Pro Just Schooled Me on the Eyebrow Shape Mistakes for Every Age

Last year, Vogue posted a video of Madison Beer using the Charlotte Tilbury Beauty Light Wand. The singer dabs a few dots of the highlighter-blusher hybrid onto her cheeks and the bridge of her nose, blends effortlessly with a sponge, and is left with the most perfect ‘lit from within’ glow. After watching the video, I immediately purchased the exact shade Beer used (Pinkgasm, if you were wondering). A wise move, considering that within a matter of days, every single shade of the wand was sold out, and it’s been almost impossible to get hold of ever since. In fact, every restock in the past few years has sold out within record speed, so this is an urgent PSA that although the Charlotte Tilbury highlighter wands are (finally!) back in stock, you’re going to need to move pretty fast if you want to get your hands on one.

There are six shades of the highlighter wands. Two are straight-up highlighters in classic golden hues— perfect for brightening and illuminating the high points of your face. The other four are highlighter-blusher hybrids, delivering major glow and a tint of colour in varying shades of pink. All six have a thin, gel-gloss texture and soft-focus pearlescent finish which looks fresh and dewy on the skin. If you subscribe to the no makeup-makeup ‘clean girl’ look and are already a fan of the (also always sold out) Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter, then the Beauty Light Wands will be right up your street. I’ve truly never used a highlighter or blusher that looks so natural.

What’s more, a little goes a long way. That one I purchased back in 2021? Yep, I’m still using it. And (despite the fact I get sent a lot of makeup freebies), it’s been a staple in my daily makeup routine throughout the past two years. You truly only need the tiniest dot of product to blend out into a radiant flush across your cheeks. At the same time, it’s not overly pigmented - the formula itself is actually quite sheer, which is what makes the finish so skin-like and natural. So if you’re new to the concept of using a liquid blusher or have used less impressive versions in the past, don’t be scared off. The texture is effortlessly blendable (you could even use your fingers), but I find that a makeup sponge or a fluffy blush brush is the best way to apply.

I won’t keep you hanging around. Since they’re sure to sell out, time really is of the essence if you want to get hold of the Beauty Light Wands in 2022 - and who knows when they’ll be back… Keep scrolling to choose your shade.

Shop the Charlotte Tilbury Beauty Light Wands:

Next Up: No Lie—I Tried Hailey Bieber's Blush Hack, and My Face Has Never Looked Better

Of all the best makeup products out there, brown eyeliner has got to be the most underrated. It’s simple, easy to use, suits everyone and can really pull a look together, adding subtle definition when you don’t have time (or the desire) for a bold eye look.

For years, it’s been a staple in my routine. I’m a subscriber to the ‘no makeup-makeup’ look, so my everyday makeup is very natural—a skin tint, a few dabs of cream blusher, and a clear brow gel. Adding black eyeliner into the mix can sometimes look too harsh, so if I do want to add a little definition to my eye area, then I’ll always opt for a brown eyeliner over a black one. Much how a brown mascara is softer than black, I find it helps to enhance my eyes without it looking super obvious that I’m wearing eye makeup. And I have plenty of recommendations for the best brown eyeliners out there.

I’m not the only one who’s a fan. Google searches for ‘brown eyeliner’ have steadily increased over the past year, no doubt because the effect feeds into the "clean girl" look made popular by beauty content creators on TikTok and Instagram. Brown eyeliner has also long been a secret weapon for professional makeup artists. "I love using brown liner for a really low-key sculpted look, creating shadows that define the eyes really subtly”, says celebrity makeup artist Emily Clarkson. "I also love building it up to a really beautiful smoky eye, then layering shadows on top so it’s really long-lasting. It’s definitely one of the most versatile products out there.”

From Victoria Beckham’s Satin Kajal Eyeliner to Beauty Pie’s affordable Kohl Eyeliner, there are plenty of options to choose from, in shades ranging from light to dark brown, and in everything from pencil and crayon to kohl and liquid formulas. With the help of Clarkson, I’ve tried, tested, and pulled together an edit of the very best brown eyeliner options for everyone, so you’re sure to find a staple for your makeup bag. Plus, Clarkson shares her expert tips on how to get the most out of your brown eyeliner.

Best Brown Eyeliners, Tried & Tested

1. Best Overall: Victoria Beckham Beauty Satin Kajal Eyeliner in Cocoa (£33)
2. Best Shimmer Brown Liner: Victoria Beckham Beauty Satin Kajal Eyeliner in Cinnamon (£33)
3. Best For Smudging: Jones Road The Best Pencil in Brown (£22)
4. Best For Sensitive Eyes: Charlotte Tilbury Rock 'n' Kohl in Barbarella Brown (£25)
5. Best Affordable Liquid Eyeliner: NYX Epic Ink Liner in Milk Chocolate (£10)
6. Best Eyeliner Pencil With Smudger: Beauty Pie Supercolour Kohl Eyeliner in Brown Beauty (£13)
7. Best Suits-Everyone Brown Eyeliner Pencil: MAC Cosmetics Eye Kohl Pencil in Costa Riche (£20)
8. Best Waterproof Eyeliner Pencil: Yves Saint Laurent Crushliner Waterproof Eye Crayon in Brun Universel (£25)
9. Best Eyeliner Pencil For Smoky Eyes: Makeup By Mario Master Pigment Pro Pencil in Perfect Brown (£26)
10. Best Retractable Eyeliner Pencil: Ilia Clean Line Gel Eyeliner in Dusk (£28)
11. Best Luxury Eye Pencil: Lisa Eldridge Seamless Glide Eye Pencil in Ground Coffee (£24)
12. Best Gel Eyeliner Pencil: Rare Beauty Perfect Strokes Gel Eyeliner in True Brown (£19)
13. Best For Easy Application: Kosas Soulgazer Intensifying Gel Eyeliner in Depth (£20)

1. Best Overall: Victoria Beckham Beauty Satin Kajal Eyeliner in Cocoa

2. Best Brown Shimmer: Victoria Beckham Beauty Satin Kajal Liner in Cinnamon

3. Best For Smudging: Jones Road The Best Pencil in Brown

4. Best For Sensitive Eyes: Charlotte Tilbury Rock 'n' Kohl in Barbarella Brown

5. Best Affordable Eyeliner: NYX Professional Makeup Epic Ink Liner in Brown

6. Best Eyeliner Pencil With Smudger: Beauty Pie Supercolour Kohl Eyeliner in Brown Beauty

7. Best Suits-Everyone Brown Eyeliner Pencil: MAC Cosmetics Eye Kohl in Costa Riche

8. Best Waterproof Eyeliner Pencil: Yves Saint Laurent Crushliner Waterproof Eye Crayon in 2 Brun Universel

9. Best Eyeliner For Smoky Eyes: Makeup by Mario Master Pigment Pro Pencil in Perfect Brown

10. Best Retractable Eyeliner Pencil: Ilia Clean Line Gel Eyeliner in Dusk

11. Best Luxury Eye Pencil: Lisa Eldridge Seamless Glide Eye Pencil In Ground Coffee

12. Best Gel Eyeliner Pencil: Rare Beauty Perfect Strokes Gel Eyeliner in True Brown

13. Best For Easy Application: Kosas Soulgazer Intensifying Gel Eyeliner in Depth

How Do You Apply Brown Eyeliner?

Much like black, brown eyeliner can be applied in a number of different ways. I personally love using a brown pencil or crayon for tight-lining my eyes. I angle the pencil upwards and apply it right into my lash line which helps to add subtle definition and creates the illusion of fuller lashes without it looking like I have any eyeliner on. If you’ve previously found black eyeliner over-powering, but tight-lining with a brown liner has a totally different result which you’ll probably find more flattering.

"The great thing about brown eyeliner is that you don’t have to be too neat, and if you want a smoky, smudgy look, you can just use a pencil brush to blend,” says Clarkson. She also recommends tight-lining to start with, but for a bolder look, she suggests dragging the brown liner into a wing whilst keeping your eyes open to add some extra shape. "If you feel like this, it adds too much product. Instead of applying directly with the pencil, put a generous amount onto the back of your hand and use a small angled brush to apply along the lash line, building it up to your perfect amount.”

Of course, brown eyeliners also come in felt tip pen applicators, which can be used for a more traditional thick line or cat-eye wing. Although this does require a steady hand (and cotton buds to clean up any mistakes!), any error in the shape will be much less noticeable than a black eyeliner would be. Plus, the overall effect will be more subtle.

Who Suits Brown Eyeliner?

"Brown liners bring a lot of warmth which is really flattering to the colours of our eyes,” says Clarkson. It’s true, much like wearing brown eyeshadow, a brown eyeliner can serve to enhance the colour of your eyes, and even if your eyes are brown themselves, it can really bring out any flecks of gold or green in them. No matter what your skin tone, Clarkson also recommends trying a brown eyeliner if you’re nervous about eyeliner application, since it’s much more forgiving than black eyeliner, which needs to be applied very precisely. "Brown eyeliner is just so versatile and perfect for those who are less confident in their makeup ability,” she adds. "If you slip up then you can literally smudge it with your fingers and add some bronzer on top and it’ll still look great!”

Is Brown Eyeliner Better Than Black Eyeliner?

If you are experimenting with a bold eye makeup look, want a classic feline flick, or are creating a smoky eye look, then a black eyeliner will probably create more impact and will stand out more against any eyeshadow you’re wearing. However, if you’re after a more subtle, everyday look, a brown eyeliner will look much softer.

Clarkson says that she always opts for a brown over a black if her client wants a softer and more youthful look. "A black eyeliner can make the eye area look too heavy and, depending on where you place the product, can actually make your eyes appear smaller,” she adds.

How We Tested

Between the Who What Wear UK editors, we tried and tested a lot of brown eyeliners. We tested them on different eye colours, skin tones and even on the most sensitive of eyes to find the best brown eyeliners that work for everyone. We've been wearing them daily to see how well they apply and how long they lasted throughout the day. We also tried an array of formulas, from gel eyeliners to classic pencils and liquid eyeliners, so you can find the best one for you.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

This story was previously published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

When those Cyber Monday emails start piling up in your inbox, it’s easy to become overwhelmed by the sheer amount of offers and deals out there. Over the past few years my stance has been this: Stick to the brands I know and love, and the products I’ll actually use, instead of getting distracted by ‘too good to be true’ promotions. Of all the Cyber Monday beauty sales, it has to be said that Charlotte Tilbury’s is not only one of the best but also one of the most anticipated.

Not only do I have my tried-and-tested favourites (Flawless Filter, I’m looking at you), but I’m also never disappointed when I try something new. In fact, most people I know, whether they’re beauty obsessed or not, have a go-to favourite product from the iconic brand. Whether it’s the award-winning Magic Cream or makeup bag staples like the Beauty Light Wands and the always-sold-out Hollywood Flawless Filter. If you’re into luxury beauty, Charlotte Tilbury products have a cult following like no other, and if you’re someone who’s serious about scoring heavily discounted products that you know you'll love or already use on the daily, now is the time to shop.

This year’s offer doesn’t disappoint, as you can score up to 30% off everything on site: Spend over £150 and save 30% (using the code MAGIC30) and spend over £100 and save 25% (using the code MAGIC25), plus purchase anything on site and get 20% off with the code MAGIC20. You can see why I’m excited, right?

Whether you’re a long-term fan aiming to stock up, a Charlotte Tilbury newbie looking for an opportunity to try the brand out for the first time, or you’re on the lookout for Christmas gifts, now really is the best time to invest. Don’t know where to start? Keep scrolling to discover some of my favourite Charlotte Tilbury products below that are now reduced in the Cyber Monday sale.

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Next Up: Cyber Monday Is the Best Time to Buy Beauty—25 Deals I'm Shopping

This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated. 

Even as a beauty editor, I am often stuck in my ways when it comes to my make-up. Whether it’s a day at the office, date night, a work event or an impromptu trip to the pub, it’s almost as if I go into autopilot, applying the same look time and time again. First up, my trusty flick with a brown kohl liner (a game changer by the way), then a slick of mascara, a foundation mixed with some kind of glow cream, a bit of bronzer, cream blusher, powder, a lip gloss and I’m away. And yes, I always do my eyes first and yes a lot of people find it weird.

When this time of year comes around, however, it’s as if the inner Ru Paul in me awakens and I want it all going on at once. Glitter eyeshadow? All over it. Fake lashes? I’ll take a full and fluttery corner set, please. Oh, and while you're at it, you wouldn’t mind sticking on a few rhinestones? Anywhere will do.

Swatches of Mollie's favourite party lipsticks. Scroll on to see them in action...

But my favourite beauty product for party season, without a doubt, is an amazing lipstick. Whether it’s a bright red, hot pink or a glitter extravaganza, there’s just something about a lipstick that can really compliment a festive getup and add a sprinkle of extra to the vibe you're going for. 

With that in mind, here are the best party lipsticks that don’t compromise on comfort, ease of application, staying power or pigment. You best believe I’m rocking up to the Christmas ‘do, Winter Wonderland, my Grandma’s annual festive family gathering and New Years Eve wearing one of them. 

1. Pat McGrath LiquiLust Legendary Wear Metallic Lipstick in Crimson Sunset 

Mollie wearing Pat McGrath LiquiLust Legendary Wear Metallic Lipstick in Crimson Sunset

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2. Charlotte Tilbury Limitless Lucky Lucky Lips in Red Wishes

Mollie wearing Charlotte Tilbury Limitless Lucky Lips in Red Wishes

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3. Dior Rouge Dior Limited Edition Matte Lipstick in Mystic Plum

Mollie wearing Dior Rouge Dior Limited Edition Matte Lipstick in Mystic Plum

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4. Rare Beauty Lip Soufflé Matte Lip Cream in Ascend 

Mollie wearing Rare Beauty Lip Soufflé Matte Lip Cream in Ascend 

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5. NARS Powermatte Lipstick in Feel My Fire

Mollie wearing NARS Powermatte Lipstick in Feel My Fire

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6. Honest Beauty Liquid Lipstick in BFF

Mollie wearing Honest Beauty Liquid Lipstick in BFF

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7. Christian Louboutin Silky Satin Lip Colour in Berry Revue

Mollie wearing Christian Louboutin Silky Satin Lip Colour in Berry Revue

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8. Vieve Modern Matte Lipstick in Lara

Mollie wearing Vieve Modern Matte Lipstick in Lara

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9. Ciaté Glitter Flip Lipstick in Candy

Mollie wearing Ciaté Glitter Flip Lipstick Candy

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Next Up: I've Noticed These 6 Winter Makeup Trends Are Taking Over Already

If you have dry skin, it sometimes feels as if no amount of moisturiser will quench your skin’s thirst and give it that covetable, radiant glow. While regular hydration is important, because of the numerous reasons that can cause dry skin (genetics, diet, and climate) it takes more than just finding the daily best moisturiser to truly treat severely dry skin. At its core, dry skin is the result of reduced sebum production. "Dry skin occurs when the skin is depleted in oil and water,” says celebrity skincare therapist and expert, Tarryn Warren. "Typically, a dry skin is associated with a lack of natural oils and lipids.” Genetics determine the rate of oil production by the sebaceous glands in our skin, but environmental conditions, such as winter wind and low humidity, also play a huge role in how dry our skin is.

Regardless of what has triggered your dryness, the symptoms are universal. "The main signs are a roughness of texture which can be felt if you glide your fingers across your face and feel a sandpapery texture,” says Warren. "The skin can also have a greyish appearance, flakiness, and in a worst-case scenario cracking and bleeding.” One thing is apparent: dry skin is challenging to experience. But that said, it’s totally possible to manage (if not eliminate) by restoring balance to your complexion.

Keep reading for a deep dive into our experts’ top tips for dry skin, and discover the best serums, cleansers, moisturisers (and more) to help you on your way to a smoother, softer, hydrated complexion.

The Best Skincare Tips for Dry Skin

1. Focus on Your Skin Barrier

If you have dry skin, then your skin barrier (the outermost layer of skin) is compromised. According to dermatologist Sonia Khorana, the skin barrier is integral because it’s the body’s last line of defence against the outside environment. "When the skin barrier is damaged, it does a poor job of keeping irritants out of the skin and preventing water loss from the skin,” she says. To fix a damaged skin barrier, Khorana recommends simplifying your skincare routine. "I see a lot of patients using exfoliating acids twice daily and attempting at-home peels and microneedling,” she says. "This level of exfoliation can be very damaging to the skin, as can over-washing.”

Try stripping your routine back to the basics: cleanser and moisturiser. Khorana recommends using gentle cleansing formulas and looking for moisturisers with barrier-supporting ingredients like niacinamide and probiotics.

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2. Top Up Your Ceramides

Ceramides are lipid molecules that are naturally produced by our skin as a means of holding our skin cells together, but in dry and mature skin types they’re typically depleted. "Ceramides are vital to maintaining the skin barrier, retaining moisture, and keeping the skin hydrated,” says Khorana. She advises those with dry skin to look for skincare products that utilise ceramides as an ingredient in order to compensate for low ceramide levels.

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3. Use Hyaluronic Acid

Renowned for its ability to draw moisture into the skin, hyaluronic acid is a key ingredient for treating dryness. "Hyaluronic acid is a humectant, which means that it consists of molecules that have high water-retaining properties," explains dermatologist Beibei Du-Harpur, PhD. "It can add moisture to the skin barrier and allow it to be plump and elastic.”

Thankfully, you won’t have to look far to find this hard-working ingredient. Most serums, moisturisers, and face mists will be boosted with this hero hydrator since it improves the hydrating properties of other moisturising ingredients within a formula.

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4. Introduce Squalane

In addition, Warren’s top ingredient recommendation is squalane. This oil-like emollient is particularly effective because (although it’s often derived from sugarcane or olives) it behaves similarly to the skin’s own oil (sebum). This means that skin instantly recognises and knows how to use it, making it an incredibly effective ingredient for preventing moisture loss and restoring suppleness.

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5. Try Oat-Based Products

Warren also recommends trying oat-based products, as oat is especially beneficial for those with extremely dry or eczema-prone skin due to their anti-inflammatory properties. She advises adding oat-based products to your bath water if you have dry skin elsewhere on your body, but oat (and its derivatives) are also commonly found in rich moisturisers. "Look for skincare products containing colloidal oatmeal,” advises facialist and skin expert Lauren Hughes. "Colloidal oat can help lock moisture in the skin but it also very anti-inflammatory and can calm sensitive, irritated dry skin.”

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6. Know Your Acids

Of course, as well as knowing which ingredients to look out for, it’s equally as important to know what to avoid. Warren advises steering clear of salicylic acid which will only exacerbate dryness, and Hughes recommends avoiding glycolic acid. "Instead opt for polyhydroxy acid products,” she says. "They are far more gentle and can actually help with hydration in the skin.”

Commonly known as PHAs, polyhydroxy acids are one of the more gentle forms of chemical exfoliant, and while they’re still incredibly effective at breaking down dead skin cells, they do so with very minimal irritation, making them perfect for those with dry or sensitive skin.

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7. Use Gentle Cleansers

One thing that all the experts I spoke to were unanimous about was the importance of gentle cleansing. "Cleansing is the foundation of a good skin routine and can set you up for success or failure,” says Hughes. "But if you have dry skin, avoid foam and gel cleansers and instead opt for creamy formulas removed with warm (not hot) water.” Warren agrees, "Don’t be tempted to over-cleanse, and if you have dry skin, balmy cleansers are a great choice for cleansing without stripping skin,” she says.

The right cleanser should leave skin feeling soft and comfortable post-cleanse, which indicates that skin has been efficiently cleansed without stripping oils or over-exfoliating.

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8. Exfoliate (Gently)

Even if you have dry skin, exfoliation can still be a key feature in your skincare routine, especially if you want to target the texture caused by dryness. "Flakiness is often a feature of dry skin and it can be tempting to scrub away the flakes with abrasive face scrubs,” says Hughes, "But remember this can cause irritation to the skin and further dryness.” Instead, to remove dead skin cells and smooth skin texture she recommends using a soft muslin or microfibre face cloth to gently slough away rough texture and flakes without irritation.

For extremely dry skin, Du-Harpur recommends taking a cautious approach in order to prevent further irritation. "Exfoliation needs to be done extremely carefully or avoided! A good moisturiser is more likely to help in this scenario than an exfoliant.”

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9. Don’t Overuse Retinol

Retinol is another ingredient to be careful with if you’re prone to dryness as it can exacerbate dry skin. "A lot of people are now adding prescription retinoids into their routines on top of exfoliating acids,” says Khorana. "The side effect is a compromised barrier, resulting in dryness and irritation.” She recommends taking a "low and slow” approach, using retinoids every other night and starting with lower percentages rather than prescription strengths.

You’ll find that retinol products come in many forms, but if you have dry skin, use a cream or an oil formula. They act as a kind of buffer to slow absorption, which reduces irritation and means you’re simultaneously moisturising your skin.

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10. SPF, Every Single Day

We all know the importance of wearing SPF every day in order to protect the skin from the increased risk of cancers and prevent premature signs of ageing. But did you know that UV radiation also has a detrimental impact on the skin barrier? "Sunlight spurs the release of free radicals which wreak havoc on the skin, damaging cells, fatty acids, and collagen,” says Khorana.

The best way to incorporate SPF into your routine is with a separate SPF product at the very end of your morning skincare routine. Apply it liberally, and don’t make the mistake of missing areas such as your under-eyes and neck, where dryness and fine lines are most likely to show.

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11. Layer From Thinnest to Thickest

When it comes to the application of your skincare products, Du-Harpur recommends layering products from thinnest to thickest in order to prioritise absorption. "Skincare products are emulsions consisting of water and oil. Thin products tend to be water-based or have higher water content, whereas thicker products tend to have higher oil content,” she explains. "Oil repels water, and therefore layering something thin and water based on top of a thicker oilier product means that you are less likely to benefit from the water-based product.”

If in doubt, simply compare the texture of your products. Typically most routines will start (post cleanse) with a toner or face mist, followed by serum(s), then moisturiser, and finally, oils or balms.

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12. Mist Throughout the Day

Your skin may feel hydrated and nourished in the hours immediately after you’ve completed your skincare routine, but if you feel the dryness kicking in during the day, Hutton advises keeping a face mist on hand for on-the-go top-ups. "I keep a small one in my handbag at all times to boost my skin throughout the day,” she says. "Just remember to avoid those with alcohol in as alcohol will cause irritation and further dryness.”

For soothing relief to very dry skin, look for milky face mists. With formulas boosted by ingredients like ceramides and probiotics, they go a step further than their regular counterparts and deliver serum-like levels of moisture.

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13. Stick to Nourishing Formulas

Above all, when choosing new products to add to your routine, always keep your dry skin front of mind. "Look for products that use words like nourish, omega, balm, and oil,” says Warren. Since oil is what your skin is lacking in, it should be a key ingredient in your routine. "Buy yourself a non-perfumed facial oil and add a few drops to your moisturiser when the weather gets colder,” she recommends. "Eventually, switch to using the oil as an extra step on top of your moisturiser.”

Ending your skincare routine with a thicker textured product like a balm or an oil will help to seal moisture into the skin and prevent it from escaping. This technique is commonly known as ‘slugging’ but has long since been recommended by dermatologists and skin professionals to help counteract winter skin dryness.

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14. Got Spots? Use Non-Comedogenic Formulas

Most people associate breakouts with oily skin but actually dry skin can be acne-prone, too. Don’t be tempted to skip out on moisturising just because you’ve had a breakout, however. Remember that hydrated skin is healthy skin and healthy skin is better able to defend against acne-causing bacteria, as well as faster at healing breakouts and pigmentation.

The key, of course, is in choosing the right products and ingredients. "If you’re experiencing dryness and breakouts, avoiding products with comedogenic (pore clogging) oils such as coconut and avocado oil is very important,” says Hughes. "My favourite face oil to help replenish lack of moisture without causing breakouts is rosehip seed oil since you can layer it under moisturiser in the evening.”

In addition, choose non-drying spot treatments and look for calming ingredients like cica and green tea, which will help to reduce the inflammation of spots without further irritation.

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15. Supplements Are Crucial

It’s every bit as important to consider how what you put in your body impacts your skin just as much as the products you apply topically. With a background in nutrition, Warren advocates the importance of increasing consumption of natural omega 3 and omega 6 from oils like linseed and pumpkin oil. "I spent a couple of years managing a medical health resort in Austria where one of the core treatments was raw oil shots in the morning,” she says. "I was startled by the effect this had on dry skin and inflammatory conditions like eczema.”

Lorraine Perretta, Head of Nutrition at Advanced Nutrition Programme also recommends omegas 3 and 6. "Dry and sensitive skin may benefits from omega 3 fatty acids found in oily fish, which can help replenish and support a compromised skin barrier,” she adds. "They have also been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties.”

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This story was previously published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

From camouflaging blemishes to masking dark under-eye circles, finding the best concealer can be a sure way to achieve a healthy look. I find concealer quite difficult to get right. I always end up picking a shade that’s not quite right—I don’t whether that’s a me problem or a concealer problem. It’s either too grey and leaves me looking ashy or the consistency is too thick and has me looking like I’ve caked on the product. So when I heard Charlotte Tilbury was releasing a new concealer to go alongside the Beautiful Skin foundation (spoiler alert one of the best foundations I’ve tried, and I don’t say that lightly), you know it was going straight into my shopping basket. 

Charlotte Tilbury's Beautiful Skin Radiant Concealer comes with some serious promises: "Darlings, BRIGHTEN, SMOOTH and LIFT the LOOK of your eyes and face with NEW! Beautiful Skin Radiant Concealer,” says Charlotte Tilbury in the press release. I certainly had high hopes.

Charlotte Tilbury Beautiful Skin Radiant Concealer 

I don’t know about you but the Mercury retrograde has certainly been impacting my sleep pattern and as a result, I’ve developed some unwelcome dark under-eye circles. The Charlotte Tilbury concealer couldn’t have come into my life at a better time. 

From personal experience, I’ve found that the trick to covering dark circles is going in with a lightweight concealer, as you don’t want to draw more attention to the area. Also, you need a concealer that will deliver on the coverage factor. No hard feat, just the right balance between texture, consistency and coverage.

Before using Charlotte Tilbury's Beautiful Skin radiant Concealer

Available in 30 shades, you’ll find a shade that works for you. The brand recommends matching the number to your corresponding Beautiful Skin Foundation shade to conceal, or going a shade or two lighter for brightening. I wear shade 11, which is not too grey or too orange, it’s the perfect concealer for everyday which melts into the skin seamlessly, delivering that smooth and natural coverage. For an everyday look, I go in with my fingers for application. The warmth of my hands helps to melt the product into my skin for a natural finish. On days when I’m looking for more coverage, I’ll go in with my beauty blender to really push the concealer into the skin for that flawless, high- coverage finish.

After using Charlotte Tilbury's Beautiful Skin radiant Concealer

Charlotte Tilbury's Beautiful Skin Radiant Concealer certainly delivers coverage, consistency and texture. It works like a heavy-duty concealer but feels and looks almost undetectable on the skin. It's cleverly formulated with mica-based pearls, which work to create a light diffusing effect, soft focussing silica to smooth the skin’s appearance and glow peptides to reflect light, leaving you with a brightened, concealed and lifted under eye area.

It’s packed with high powered skincare ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vegan collagen, niacinamide and vitamin C, which when combined work to hydrate, smooth and brighten the skin at more than just the surface level. It’s really working to recreate its appearance level results on your real skin.

Formulations have come on leaps and bounds over the last couple of years and this concealer is definitely at the forefront of the concealer game. Nothing really compares to finding the perfect concealer for your skin and this one does the trick. You can bet that this concealer will be a constant member of my makeup routine.

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Up Next, These 9 Nail Colour Trends Will Be the Most Popular in 2022

Trending makeup looks can sometimes be so divisive—what works for someone else doesn't always work for you, and vice versa. But this year, some of the biggest and best makeup trends are trending precisely because they're so wearable, so easy to achieve, and because they look great on everyone. So don't be put off if you're used to lists of makeup trends that require 53683 products and a 20-step tutorial to achieve. This year's trending makeup looks are some of the most low maintenance and universally flattering we've seen in a while.

If you're in a bit of a makeup rut or looking for quick and easy ways to upgrade and elevate your everyday makeup look, now's the time to hit refresh and try something different.

From wearable takes on eyeliner to trending lip looks that are seriously low maintenance, scroll down for major makeup inspiration. 

1. Soft Eyeliner

Brown is the new black when it comes to eyeliner—offering a softer and more subtle alternative to harsh wings. It's still a great way to subtly enhance your eye shape and define your lash line, but has a more delicate effect, perfect for day time wear or no makeup-makeup looks.

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2. One-Wash Eyeshadow

If you're still using five different shades of eyeshadow and a cut crease technique, put down your brushes. These days, eyeshadow looks are much more low maintenance. Think: fun, creative, messy, apply-with-your-fingertips eyeshadow that doesn't require hours spent blending and buffing.

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3. Radiant Skin

Glowing skin will always be in, because who doesn't want their complexion to look fresh and healthy? Sofia Richie's wedding makeup looks were goals in so many ways, but her skin really was the star of the show. The secret? Cream-based makeup products, which meld seamlessly with skin for a 'your skin but better' effect.

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4. Bold Lips

Minimal makeup looks are certainly trending, which means that when it comes to pulling a look together, a good strategy to have is to keep either the eyes or the lips as the focus—never both. If you opt for a bold lip, keep eye makeup minimal—brushed up brows and brown mascara will let a strong red lip take centrestage.

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5. Stand-Out Lashes

Likewise, if you prefer the focus of your look to be on the eyes, opt for a nude lip which subtly enhances your natural lip colour and doesn't detract from your eye makeup. This look is all about the lashes—apply your eyeliner in a cat-eye shape in order to emphasise them and don't forget to apply mascara to the lower lashline to bring the final look together.

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7. Glossy Lips

Since lip oils are undoubtedly the trending lip product of the moment, it makes sense that glossy, dewy lips are a major makeup trend right now. As well as being the perfect accompaniment to a fresh-faced, natural-looking makeup look, we love this trend because it's so low maintenance.

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8. Pastel Eyeliner

If you want to lean into and embrace your creative side while still keeping your makeup in-line with the more minimal trend, consider a slick of bold pastel eyeliner. It's a fun way to elevate your everyday makeup for date night or a party.

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8. Extended Eyeliner

Extending your eyeliner at the outer corner of your eye is a classic makeup artist-approved trick for creating the appearance of wider eyes—but did you know that extending liner in the inner corner too has the same effect? Whether you use a bright coloured liner or opt for a classic brown or black, this technique works every time.

Get the look:

9. Stained Lips

Gone are the days of perfectly applied matte lipstick and lip liner. Stained lips are another popular makeup trend right now—mostly because this effect is easy to achieve, doesn't require constant top-ups, and looks good on everyone, no matter what your lip size or shape.

Get the look:

Next Up: 8 Celebrity-Approved Makeup Looks I'll Be Trying Out This Summer

There are certainly some occupational hazards we're faced with as beauty editors—perioral dermatitis, perfume-induced migraines, and a need for some extreme bathroom storage solutions are amongst them. But there are also some major perks. The best one? We get access to the latest and greatest beauty launches and we usually get to try them out for free. Of course, without this perk, our jobs would be pretty hard—which means that with a constant stream of new products landing on our desks on pretty much a daily basis, we're rarely in the position of needing to buy anything.

With that said, sometimes we use products that are so good and so effective, we feel the need to keep them in our daily routines (or at least have backups to hand for skincare emergencies). What's more, one of the really fun parts of being a beauty editor is sleuthing out the products that are set to be the next big thing (even if they're not new) or figuring out which underrated products are actually hidden gems.

We try so many products that if we consider a moisturiser/mascara/perfume worth spending our money on (especially when we probably didn't need it), then it definitely is worth it. So if a beauty editor tells you that they paid for and bought a product for themself, that's your sign to run out and buy it. 

Below, a handful of beauty editors divulged to me the products they use and actually buy for themselves. Scroll to discover what could potentially be your new favourite beauty products... 

1. Grace Day

2. Eleanor Vousden

3. Mica Ricketts

4. Tori Crowther

5. Nateisha Scott

6. Zeynab Mohamed

7. Mollie Burdell

8. Jenny Brownlees

9. Chloe Burcham

Next Up: I’m An Esthetician and These Are My Most-Recommended Skincare Products

My sister wearing the new Charlotte Tilbury Beautiful Skin Foundation in Shade 9, neutral.

Foundation is the base of your makeup look, which is quite literally why it’s referred to as a base product. It holds a lot of power, including the power to make or break your finished look. The industry has mastered the full coverage foundations and the super lightweight barely-there foundations, but it's the somewhere in the middle, medium coverage yet real skin-like finish foundation that is not quite there yet. 

That was until the queen of makeup Charlotte Tilbury announced the launch of her new foundation, very aptly named Beautiful Skin foundation. This is basically a foundation for people who don't like foundation, instead of the traditional, heavy finish you might expect from Charlotte Tilbury. This is the perfect product if you want a lighter and more natural finish, while still giving coverage.

'I’ve always said, beautiful, healthy skin starts with high-performance ingredients,' explains Charlotte. 'With my new Beautiful Skin Foundation, I’ve added a matrix of science-infused skin actives to create a hybrid foundation that floods the skin with moisture and leaves the complexion plump, smooth, glowing and protected against pollution. To round out our complexion wardrobe, I have spent the last three years obsessively working to create a medium coverage foundation that would conceal imperfections but also leave skin healthy and glowing, not cakey or matte. It’s like bathing your face in the most flattering ring light to reveal brighter-looking skin that looks magically reborn!” Sounds glorious. 

Jourdan Dunn wears shade 10, neutral

Forever in the pursuit of the perfect in-between foundation, I’ve tried a lot in my time as a beauty editor and unfortunately nothing has hit the spot quite like one. It’s the perfect everyday foundation, as it applies seamlessly onto the skin with little effort, leaving you with a natural skin-like finish and oodles of dewiness. If you’re a fan of the Charlotte Tilbury Flawless Filter (which I certainly am), you will love this foundation. Think of it as its more coverage-giving cousin, all the goodness of the flawless filter but with slightly more coverage.

Formulated with a combination of supercharged active ingredients, this foundation does more than just give you a beautiful base. The rose and coconut complex in the ingredients list, target hydration and combat dullness, and the pollution defence complex, created with sustainably sourced coconut flour, strengthen the skin barrier and forms a protective shield against pollution. But the star of the show is the Hyalurosmooth, derived from Cassia Angustifolia seeds. These potent seeds are naturally rich in polysaccharides, which means that when applied to the skin, this specific ingredient works to even skin texture and battle dryness and dullness. 

With an impressive 30 shade range, the foundations are categorised not only by colour, but also by undertones. I can’t tell you how much easier that makes the process, especially as I find that as a Black woman buying foundation can be a minefield. The majority of foundations in the darker shades typically come with limited undertone options, so you often end up with a good shade match, but the undertone can be completely off. To help you find the correct shade, Charlottetilbury.com is using clever MIME AI technology which helps you to shade match your foundation online, with a match guarantee. 

My sister wearing the new Charlotte Tilbury Beautiful Skin Foundation in Shade 9, neutral.

Anyone who has a sister will know that as soon as you try something amazing, they want in on it too and often products will go 'missing' very quickly. My sister Aisha (who is also a makeup obsessive) tried the foundation as soon as I told her about it, and she was equally impressed—'it feels super, super lightweight on the skin and blends into the skin beautifully, almost like a second skin. But just a more perfected second skin, and just the right amount of dewiness and coverage.'

It truly lives up to its name, beautiful skin in a bottle. This might sound over the top, but in my opinion this is nothing short of a foundation miracle.

Shop the Foundation:

More Charlotte Tilbury favourites:

We’ll say it: No one nails the art of effortless beauty like French women. Call it a stereotype if you’d like, but the French always seem to have the most beautiful makeup looks. Considering that France is home to some of beauty’s biggest names (think L’Oréal, Guerlain and Clarins), it only makes sense that the French way of life is laced with nods to the country’s roots in beauty.

It only takes a couple of minutes of roaming the streets in Paris to spot that French women know how to apply their makeup. Their skin is plump, smooth and glowing; their brows appear effortlessly preened; and their cheeks radiate a flush so healthy it leaves you wondering what their secret is. Wonder no more, because we've reached out to French makeup artist Ewa Ciezkowska to uncover the six makeup tips French girls swear by.

1. Skincare Is Makeup

This rule comes out on top, as it is something that French women all over the world echo. That plump, radiant glow? It’s all down to their skin prep rather than their makeup. "The most important thing is to really take care of your skin. You should massage it, mask frequently and have good treatments. Before you apply a beautiful makeup look, you need a good skincare routine,” says Ciezkowska.

Shop the hero products:

2. Red Lipstick Is a Staple

What is a French makeup routine without a red lipstick? "Since the pandemic, a lot of people’s makeup preferences changed. People are spending more time on their complexion and have swapped their lipsticks for a balm. But we all know that a red lip that you can’t take your eyes off is probably the most iconic French makeup look,” says Ciezkowska.

Shop the hero products:

3. Use Mascara Wisely

French-girl makeup never looks particularly "done.” Yes, the look is typically neat, polished and radiant, but the secret to a really great look is to disguise the makeup altogether—and this is something that French girls know how to do. Ciezkowska says, "It’s all about keeping your complexion looking fresh and bright and making sure your eyes reflect that too with just a dashing of mascara. You want to feel fresh and well in your skin.”

Shop the hero products:

4. Foundation Isn't Important

Covering up all of the hard work your skincare does to boost glow and deliver radiance will only leave your skin looking dull and unnatural. Instead, French girls like to opt for lightweight bases. "Start with a good face cream, and then use a brightening CC serum to give a radiant glow. By Terry Brightening CC Serum is a hero product in my makeup bag,” says Ciezkowska.

Available in four different colour-correcting shades, from apricot to rosy pink, it can be applied on its own, under a tinted moisturiser or used as a light-reflecting highlight. "It really freshens up the skin and evens out your skin tone, no matter what you’ve been through the day before. It’s particularly good in the morning if you’ve had a late night,” she adds.

Shop the hero products:

5. Use Lipstick for Everything

A great French-girl makeup routine shouldn’t take a lot of time or effort, and French lipsticks are some of the best around to use in multiple ways. "Use your lipstick for almost everything. You can use it on your lips, on your cheeks as a blush, and even on your eyes. You end up with a makeup look that ties in really nicely that is really quick to do,” says Ciezkowska. For a versatile lipstick, look for a wearable nude or blush pink that will work well for a monochromatic look.

Shop the hero products:

6. Liquid Formulas Reign Supreme

Matte formulas like powders and full-coverage putties are out of the question when it comes to trying to nail that iconic French-girl glow. "Liquid products hydrate the skin much better and achieve a glowing look quicker than matte products. They deliver the perfect natural-looking base,” advises Ciezkowska. And the best bit is they can be applied easily with fingers or a multi-use blending brush for super-quick application.

Shop the hero products:

This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

Next Up: 14 French Beauty Brands I Know You'll Love as Much as I Do

As a beauty editor, I sometimes have a difficult time deciding which products to try out and keep for myself. While the fact that all the latest beauty launches land on my desk every day is a total dream, sadly, one face can only try so many products. Personally, I find these decisions particularly hard when it comes to makeup. With skincare, ingredient lists tend to tell me whether or not my skin will like a product. But with makeup, the products I keep tend to be those that appeal to my inner magpie.

I like my makeup products to look just as beautiful on my dressing table as they do on my face. I also want them to feel luxurious and, most importantly, possess a certain je ne sais quois that makes applying them feel like a special experience rather than the rushed nuisance. And there is one particular brand that I can always rely on to tick all of those boxes: Charlotte Tilbury.

It doesn’t matter how full my makeup drawer is or what my current product preferences may be; I will always and forever find the space to keep every Charlotte Tilbury product that comes my way. You see, there really is no beauty product that hits quite like a Charlotte Tilbury one. From the luxe rose-gold packaging to the crème de la crème of formulas, all of Charlotte Tilbury's products have that special something that makes you feel like your very best self.

As someone who has piles and piles of makeup and skincare stacked up in every cupboard, drawer and crevice of my flat, I feel experienced enough to say that Charlotte Tilbury products are without a doubt the best beauty products to receive, whether you're buying them for yourself or for a loved one.

And as we start heading into peak gifting season, it won’t be too surprising to hear that one of the questions I get asked the most is, "What are the best fail-safe beauty gifts?" And my answer is always, "You can’t go wrong with Charlotte Tilbury." Whether you’re buying for a seasoned beauty lover or someone who just appreciates a little bit of luxury in their daily routine, every Charlotte Tilbury product is a total crowd pleaser.

To get ahead of the influx of beauty-related messages and questions I’ll no doubt receive this season, I’ve included a list of the Charlotte Tilbury products that make for the ultimate gifts below.

The Extravagant Gesture

The Multi-Tasking Skincare Hero

The Ultimate Stocking Filler

The Cult Buy

The No-Fuss Duo

The Crowd-Pleasing Fail-Safe

The Classic Combo

The Everyday Hit

The On-the-Go Saviour

The Iconic Classic

Next up: I've Tried Basically Every Charlotte Tilbury Product—Here's What I'd Recommend

I haven’t had my eyebrows professionally tidied in approximately seven years. And it’s not through lack of need—trust me. My brows are dark, coarse and unruly. Straggly hairs sprout at all angles and are a far cry from subtle. But truthfully, I kind of like their wild ways. I have always been an advocate for big, bushy eyebrows, and I simply found that with every salon appointment, I got further and further away from the wild brows I craved. However, ever since going on brow strike all of those years ago, I have seriously struggled to find products that work for me. 

You see, while growing your brows wild sounds great in theory, in practice, they require quite a bit of styling to make them passable. While pencils only make my already dark hairs look even darker, putties and pomades seem to give too much structure, resulting in a stencil-like finish. So for the most part, I’ve exclusively used brow gels, which hold the hairs in place without depositing too much colour, for the past few years. While I’ve had favourites, it wasn’t until I tried Charlotte Tilbury’s Brow Fix earlier this year that I really got to experience greatness.

The first time I used Brow Fix, I was just expecting it to be another bog-standard brow gel. In honesty, I’d learned to live with the fact that most brow gels are little more than satisfactory. But when I applied it to my brows, I realised this stuff was different. First up, it’s a clear gel, which is perfect for my no-makeup makeup preferences. While so many clear gels out there turn white and crusty once dry, this stuff does no such thing. It applies like a silky balm that makes brows look conditioned and glossy. For me it’s a brush-it-on-and-go sorta product, but for those who like their brows to look a little fuller, it’s ideal for use over pencil or pomade.

Secondly, I want to talk about the brush because I think it’s the pièce de résistance. For so long, my brow routine had to involve an additional spoolie. I would brush my brows up first, really getting into the root and lifting them up and out, and then I would set them with my gel of choice. The reason being that the majority of brow gels have tiny brushes that are great for depositing product but truly terrible at combing brows into place. This brush, however, is big and really works into the root of the brow, meaning I have been able to ditch my additional spoolie.

Finally, I want to talk about the finish because it wasn’t actually until the fifth person complimented me on my brows in one week (trust me—this never happens) that I realised just how great this stuff is. It sticks hairs in place all day long without turning them stiff and crunchy. It’s much more lightweight and low-maintenance than some of the new soap-like balms and has serious staying power. As far as I’m concerned, I’ll never need to use any other brow product ever again.

Shop More Brow Gels

Spring has officially sprung—thank goodness—and with it comes the chance to overhaul my makeup bag for the coming months. This year, more than ever, the seasonal shift feels all the more poignant: leaning into glowy skin, pops of colour and feathery-soft brows is as much about refreshing my beauty look as it is about stepping out from the shadows of the last year with a spring in my step. And there's one brand that I can wholeheartedly rely on to make that transition all the more joyful: Charlotte Tilbury.

From peachy-nude lipsticks to innovative new brow products—a true delight for someone whose natural brows have been left unattended for the best part of year now—there's no denying that Charlotte Tilbury knows what's up when it comes to spring makeup.

Ahead, keep scrolling for the 9 Charlotte Tilbury makeup products that I'll be wearing basically every day this spring.

The spring lipstick

Nude lipsticks are pretty controversial, after all what's considered nude for one skin tone might not be for another. Which is why Nude Romance was born: "a nuanced, neutral shade with a kiss of peach that suits everyone", according to Tilbury. After many years spent avoiding traditionally nude lipsticks—I find that they tend to be either too orange-toned or too pale and generally leave me looking washed out—I can safely say that this peachy-nude will be sitting pretty in my makeup bag all spring. 

The spring brow products

We still have a bit of time to wait before salons reopen and I can finally let a professional loose on my unruly brows but, thankfully, Charlotte Tilbury has just dropped some major brow innovations and they've totally transformed the way I do my eyebrows in three easy steps.

Step 1: Fill

Step 2: Feather

Step 3: Fix

The spring glow boosters

I know that spring doesn't officially arrive in the UK until next month, but there's something about February that always has me desperate to shrug off my cosy knitwear and rich moisturisers and embrace a lighter approach to layering. When it comes to beauty, in particular, that means a shift towards sheer, featherweight formulations that will deliver some much-needed luminosity to my tired winter skin. So when I heard that Charlotte Tilbury, the queen of glow herself, was launching two new radiance-boosting products, I couldn't wait to try them. 

I'll admit that I've already tried basically everything that Charlotte Tilbury has to offer—yes, I'm a huge fan—so I was already confident that these products would deliver just what I needed for the season ahead. However, it's fair to say that they've become instant staples in my beauty bag along with another cult Charlotte Tilbury product from the archives. Trust me—if you're looking for the kind of sheeny complexion that could rival J.Lo, then this three-product formula is all you'll need. 

Ahead, keep scrolling to discover my new favourite Charlotte Tilbury products for spring…

#1 Super Radiance Resurfacing Facial

The first step comes courtesy of Charlotte Tilbury's brand-new skincare product that launched yesterday. Described as a "miracle facial in a tube," this is a potent acid-based exfoliator—but unlike any that I've tried before.

"People were always asking me for ‘Charlotte’s perfect skin finish’ and how to get the appearance of that refined, polished, and flawless-looking gleam," explains Tilbury. "But as a makeup artist for over 27 years, I have never been satisfied with the exfoliating treatments on the market. Outside of a dermatologist’s clinic, formulas can be harsh, sensitising, drying, and rough and can cause redness and breakouts."

Using a combination of glycolic, salicylic, and bio agave acids along with Tilbury's exclusive Exfoliactive complex—a cactus extract that reduces the appearance of wrinkles—the Super Radiance Resurfacing Facial (£52), definitely offers up visible results, but it feels so gentle to use. It gets to work in just 20 minutes, and I was immediately impressed with the results. My skin was left baby soft, bright, and with a more even skin tone, but there was no hint of irritation. Basically, my skin just looks a whole lot healthier whenever I use this.

#2 Hollywood Flawless Filter

Next up is a Charlotte Tilbury best seller that I return to time and again, especially in spring when I often use it in place of my usual foundation for a lighter, glowier finish. Hollywood Flawless Filter (£34) is a multipurpose product that's part highlighter, part primer, and part skin tint. It has a huge fan base, and once you've used it, it's easy to see why. The moisturising formulation glides over skin and contains finely milled powders and brightening porcelain flower extract to blur over lines and pores and leave skin looking smooth and dewy.

In the photo above, I've really gone to town with it, mixing it in with a tinted moisturiser for an all-over glow and then patting it onto the tops of my cheekbones for extra sheen. Available in 12 shades, it's the one product that I'd recommend everyone add to their makeup bags right now.

#3 Hyaluronic Happikiss

Lastly, I appreciate that a lip balm might not seem like the obvious product to reach for when you're trying to create a glowy complexion, but I've found that making sure my lips look healthy can make an enormous difference to how radiant I look throughout the day. The new Hyaluronic Happikiss (£25) is actually a lipstick/gloss/balm formulated with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and C-peptides to actually care for your lips while you're wearing it.

"Hyaluronic Happikiss acts like a beautifying filter for kissably soft lips, reducing the appearance of vertical lip lines and deeply nourishing lips by up to 91% over four weeks," explains Tilbury. The formula is so lovely to wear and really doesn't compromise on pigment for nourishment like many other hydrating lip colours. I'm wearing the shade Happipetal in the photo above, and I feel instantly brighter whenever I apply it. Tilbury describes how she "studied the psychology of happy lips" when formulating this lipstick, and I have to say that I think she's nailed it. 

Shop my go-to Charlotte Tilbury formula for glowy skin this spring:

Plus, to unlock more tips, tricks and beauty secrets join Charlotte Tilbury's first virtual masterclass on 9th March. Tickets are free and one attendee will also be chosen for a 1-2-1 video call with Charlotte directly after the masterclass! Book your tickets here.

Up next, I've tried basically every Charlotte Tilbury product—here's what I'd recommend.

Charlotte Tilbury is a brand that knows a thing or two about creating a buzz in the beauty world. From a cult lipstick that sells a tube every two minutes somewhere in the world to a foundation with a 17,000-person wait list, basically every product that this brand launches has a record-breaking statistic or celebrity fan to its name. In fact, even when it launched back in 2013, Tilbury's eponymous line was one of those rare gems that managed to have both beauty editors and consumers in a frenzy to try it. As a renowned makeup artist at the top of her game, Tilbury was already using some of her beauty products backstage on celebrity clients, so the excitement about them finally being launched into the hands of the public was very much real.

Nine years later, there's no sign of the hype dying down. In fact, even amongst my beauty editor friends, Charlotte Tilbury events and new product launches remain some of the most exciting dates in our beauty diaries. But are the products actually worth the hype? From A-list–approved moisturisers to best-selling lip liners, to celeb-loved foundations and wish list-worthy gift sets, it can be hard to know where to start if you're new to the Charlotte Tilbury collection, but I've been lucky enough in my job to basically try every product that the brand sells, and I can confirm that there are some real standout products that have become essentials in my own routine.

The collection is vast, so to make things a little easier to digest, I've broken down my favourite products into categories: complexion, cheeks, eyes, lips, and skincare. Keep scrolling to see the 20 best Charlotte Tilbury products that I recommend to everyone. Plus, discover the Charlotte Tilbury gift sets that are perfect for the festive season.

1. Complexion

Sabrina Elba adores Charlotte Tilbury's trademark glow so much that she chose Tilbury as her wedding-day makeup artist.

2. Cheeks

Charlotte Tilbury's Cheek to Chic blushers were spotted when Kim Kardashian West shared an Instagram snap of her makeup drawer—she's a fan.

3. Eyes

The lady behind Amal Clooney's shimmering red carpet look? Charlotte Tilbury, of course.

4. Lips

Roberts stepped out in the iconic Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk lip liner and lipstick at the Met Gala.

5. Skincare

Kate Moss is a big fan of Charlotte Tilbury, particularly her iconic moisturiser, which she used on her wedding day.

6. Gift Sets

Jennifer Aniston and beauty queen Charlotte Tilbury are so tights, there's even a lipstick named after her: The Hot Lips lipstick in Glowing Jen is a tawny, beachy rose hue with a moisturised, satin finish.

This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated. 

Up Next: If You Missed Out on a Beauty Advent Calendar, These Gift Sets Are Even Better

I’ve spent a good portion of my career testing cult beauty products, and there have been lots of hits (and a few significant misses) over the years. I love it, and it has given me access to products that quite literally do what they say on the tin. However, it has meant that I’ve never been a loyal customer, and I’m always on the hunt for the next miracle product. Recently, I made the decision to scale back and fine-tune my skincare and makeup purchases. Ask my friends—it has led to me becoming a far more put-together person with a little more money in my pocket. What’s more, my beauty cabinet is no longer close to its breaking point.

From fail-safe skincare to signature scents, I’ve found some products that seem to have stood the test of time in my life.

While I’m certain this list will change as more exciting products are released, here are some of the products I swear by.

Up next, I Have a Feeling This Affordable Skincare Brand Will Take Off in 2021

When it comes to curating my beauty bag, I don't tend to invest blindly in a singular brand. Having spent years trialling and testing the latest beauty launches, I've assembled quite the diverse collection of products from an extensive array of labels, to which I remain faithful. That is until I happen upon something that impresses me more. And lately, I find myself switching out many of my go-to products for options from one particular brand: Charlotte Tilbury.

My inaugural Charlotte Tilbury purchases were, somewhat unsurprisingly, its cult Pillow Talk lipstick and liner. The colour payoff and delicate formula were unlike any other lipstick and liners I'd tried. And honestly, along with a few other essential Charlotte Tilbury shades, I haven't allowed anything else to touch my lips since. My interest piqued, I then moved on to Charlotte Tilbury's Beauty Light Wand. Having previously sworn off ultra-shimmery highlighters, I was immediately taken with the best seller's ability to give my face a radiant glow without looking as if I'd just face-planted into a tray of glitter.

While I could go on and on about my adoration for Charlotte Tilbury (don't worry—there's plenty of time for that later), right now, I'd like to turn your attention to its skincare, namely Charlotte Tilbury's Magic Cream.

One day, during lockdown last year, I found myself in need of a pick-me-up. Naturally, I gravitated towards CharlotteTilbury.com to stock up on some of my favourites and see what other delights lay in wait. With my social calendar out the window, I decided then was the perfect time to indulge in some fresh skincare. Having used the same products for the past few years, it was high time I branched out to discover something new and potentially brilliant. That or reaffirm the fact that the products I'd long been using were still the best out there. Either way, I added Charlotte Tilbury's Magic Cream to my basket and placed my order. Little did I know my skincare routine was about to change forever.

Makeup artist Charlotte Tilbury created it backstage to transform models' skin in an instant, and she soon found herself inundated with requests from her high-profile clients to bottle her secret formula, and boy am I glad she did. Boasting a potent blend of plumping, firming, and line-lessening complexes that rapidly bestows a luminosity to the skin, this moisturiser certainly lives up to its hype. After just a couple of days using it, my skin was the best it'd looked in a long while—perhaps ever. My friends were quick to compliment my "glowy" skin over Zoom calls, and upon seeing one another in person for the first time a couple of months later, they coyly asked if I'd had any so-called "tweakments" since our last meeting. Spoiler alert: I hadn't—it was all the work of Magic Cream.

What makes this cream truly "magic" is its matrix of oils and ingredients that flood your skin with moisture, making for a glowier, dewier, plumper-looking complexion. Affectionately known as the "magic eight," the ingredients include vitamins C and E, which work to brighten skin; bionymph peptide to plump; hyaluronic acid for hydrating purposes; camellia oil to lock in moisture; rose-hip oil for added hydration and depuffing; shea butter to nourish and soften; aloe vera for smoothing; and frangipani flower extract, which has moisturising benefits and gives Charlotte Tilbury Magic Cream its delicate, calming fragrance. And the best bit is the tubs are now refillable (making them much plant-friendlier than before).

"I always say that you can't have a beautiful painting without a beautiful canvas," reveals the woman herself, Charlotte Tilbury. "Which is why I never do makeup without my iconic, award-winning Charlotte's Magic Cream. It gives me the perfect-looking, glowing canvas before makeup. The amazing thing about this cream is that it doesn't take 28 days—you see the visible results in just 28 seconds! That's what made people trust and believe in the magic."

Having been using it myself for well over a year now, I now understand why Charlotte Tilbury's Magic Cream continues to be so popular. Last year, one jar of the potent cream was sold somewhere in the world every two minutes, and I have no doubt I've been contributing to these figures myself. And if this article hasn't made my feelings known, I seriously suggest you join me.

CHARLOTTE'S MAGIC CREAM, BY SIZE

Whenever I try a new beauty or skincare product, I always invest in a smaller tub or tube if there's one available before I splash out on a larger, costlier size. That's precisely what I did with Charlotte Tilbury's Magic Cream, and while I have since upgraded to the full-size version, I'd recommend anyone who hasn't tried it before to do the same.

TRAVEL-SIZE

MEDIUM-SIZE

FULL-SIZE

SUPERSIZE

Shop More Charlotte Tilbury Products

Up next, we tried 24 iconic Charlotte Tilbury products—here are our honest thoughts.

Before we get into this, if you haven’t been following the Charlotte Tilbury Magic Cream (£75) journey over the years, let me summarise it for you very quickly. For many years, Charlotte Tilbury’s iconic Magic Cream has been heralded by many as one of the most plumping, glow-giving priming moisturisers of all time. The majority of people love it (including lots of Charlotte’s celebrity clients) and swear by it for a healthy-looking glow. However, it’s rich. So wonderful and rich, in fact, that those with super-oily skin, like mine, really can’t touch it without risking a grease-induced breakout.

And for years, the oily skinned felt wronged by this lack of acknowledgement. We too wanted to reap the glowy, plumping benefits of Magic Cream, just without the grease. So when the brand launched Charlotte’s Magic Serum Crystal Elixir back in April, I thought we finally had what we had been asking for. It gives lightweight, skin-perfecting hydration and glow and delivers a whole bunch of skin-loving ingredients while it works. Sure, I totally understood at the time that the instant glow-boosting effects weren’t quite up to par with the original Magic Cream, but it was certainly a step in the right direction.

Suki Waterhouse has been known to opt for Magic Cream as a pre–red carpet skin boost.

However, a few weeks ago, a Charlotte Tilbury parcel turned up at my door. I had a pencil in my diary for a Zoom webinar to celebrate a new launch from the brand the week after, but at the time, I had no idea what the product was set to be. The product, it turned out, was Charlotte’s Magic Cream Light (£75). That’s right, people. She heard us. A Magic Cream alternative for oily skinned guys and gals that delivers skin-perfecting radiance but with a matte, natural-looking finish is finally here.

And for the last few weeks, I’ve been giving it a go. Unlike the serum, Magic Cream Light is very much a heavy-duty moisturiser. It’s formulated with vitamin E, SPF20, anti-blue-light technology and the brand’s patented peptide-based smoothing and perfecting ingredient, Replexium. On top of all of that, it has a matte, veil-like finish that doesn’t leave the skin feeling suffocated. Most importantly for me, the finish isn’t dry-looking, either. I often worry that matte finishes will leave my complexion devoid of glow, but Magic Cream Light still lets that healthy sheen shine through. Also, unlike the original, the packaging comes in the form of a glass bottle and pump as opposed to a heavy jar and lid, which gets a big hygiene tick from me.

Do I necessarily prefer it to the serum? The truth is I’m torn. The serum is without a doubt lighter and less obviously glow-boosting and hydrating. However, I much prefer the finish. You see, although Magic Cream Light is still seriously light compared to the original and it is yet to result in serious breakouts, long after application, it’s still very much there. Whereas I’m perfectly happy to comfortably wear the serum all day, every day, Magic Cream Light probably wouldn’t be my daily moisturiser of choice. But would it be my first reach-for before applying a full face of makeup for the ultimate, smoothed and perfected base? Absolutely.

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There’s no question that Charlotte Tilbury is pretty much beauty’s biggest deal. Not only have her skills as a makeup artist seen her paint the faces of some of Hollywood’s biggest names (Amal Clooney, Blake Lively, Natalie Portman, Kate Moss and Naomi Campbell are just a few that spring to mind), but her eponymous beauty brand is also responsible for some of the industry’s most-loved products.

Whether it’s a sparkly eye shadow quad or that universally flattering nude lipstick, I challenge you to find a beauty lover (or celeb for that matter) who doesn’t swear by at least one Charlotte Tilbury product. There is one, in particular, though, that seems to have garnered a cult following unlike any other. Charlotte’s Magic Cream Moisturiser (£75) is heralded as just about the best pre-makeup moisturiser out there.

Created off the back of a handmade formula that Charlotte herself regularly used to prep models’ skin backstage, it delivers intense hydration, reduces inflammation and generally makes skin smoother, more even and luminous beyond belief. Essentially, Magic Cream is healthy-looking skin in a tub. With A-list celebrities often turning to Charlotte and her team (including her makeup maestro niece Sofia Schwarzkopf-Tilbury) to execute the glowiest of makeup looks, the radiance-boosting cream is responsible for gifting the likes of Sienna Miller, Suki Waterhouse and Olivia Palermo with flawless complexions.

However, as with all beauty products, it’s worth noting that Magic Cream isn’t for everyone. The formula is intensely rich and possesses a heaviness that oilier, more breakout-prone skin types might not get along with. I’m gutted to say that, unfortunately, I fall into that category. While I have watched on as colleagues, friends and fellow beauty editors reap the glowing, flawless benefits of Magic Cream, the results that I get from the very same product aren’t quite so.

For many moons, I (along with many other beauty buffs with congested skin) have longed for a lighter version of Charlotte’s Magic Cream. A formula that offers up the exact same perfecting qualities just with a little less oily weight to it. And it is on this note that I can finally announce today is the day our oily skin wishes have been granted as Charlotte’s Magic Serum Crystal Elixir (£60) lands. 

Formulated with powerhouse ingredients that you’d be more used to seeing in clinical skincare products, the new serum contains the same iconic Magic 8 complex as the existing cream but with a few added extras to deal with skin clarity, texture and resilience. With vitamin C to deliver radiant glow; polyglutamic acid for deep, plumping hydration; niacinamide for overall skin health and a special patented peptide blend to tackle the appearance of wrinkles, Charlotte’s Magic Serum promises so much more than just a glowing base.

And I can vouch for it. Over the past week or so, I have been using Magic Serum every single day before applying my makeup, and honestly, it’s all I ever wanted. It delivers the perfecting qualities of Magic Cream (glowing hydration, refined pores, smoothed texture), just without the threat of oily breakouts.

My only niggle? Much like the original Magic Cream, I’m still not entirely sure how it fits into an evening routine. While the brand recommends application both morning and night, a quick glance over the ingredient list leaves me conflicted. Sure, both products are jam-packed with skin-loving goodness, but they also contain perfecting ingredients that could be potentially pore-clogging and are largely unnecessary for pre-bed application. However, if you're willing to accept Magic Serum purely as a daytime skin-prepping product, I really do struggle to fault it.

So whether you have experienced a similar longing to join in on the Magic Cream fun or you simply want to up the ante when it comes to your base, if you ask me, this new serum is definitely worth your time. 

Shop More Charlotte Tilbury Base Products

Sadly, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to makeup. A foundation that makes one person look radiant and glowing could totally wash out another, while a blue-toned red lipstick that gives you the whitest smile going could do absolutely nothing for the next person. Over the years, this is a concept that the beauty industry has very much got to grips with: Foundation shades are now divided into skin undertones (with 40+ shades), a lipstick line could boast 30+ shades and you can get your hands on a full spectrum of bronzer shades, from cool to warm.

One product that has fallen behind in the easy-to-shop race, however, is eye shadow. Just like every other item of makeup, the shade of eye shadow that you settle on has the power to make or break your look. Not only does it have to complement your skin tone, but it also turns out that it should also work in collaboration with your eye colour too. Celebrity makeup artist (and niece of Charlotte Tilbury herself), Sofia Schwarzkopf-Tilbury explains, "Eyes are rarely just one colour. Select colours that enhance the hues you want to amplify. A great way to get to know colour is to work with a colour wheel. It’s a secret tool all makeup artists are taught to use.”

So what exactly does this mean? Well, it turns out that when you wear a shadow colour that is opposite to your eye colour, the contrast works to intensify your natural eye colour. "Blue eyes work best with warm champagne tones, green eyes look great with pinks and purples, hazel eyes pop against rich greens and brown eyes work with almost every colour, but blue makes an amazing contrast,” says Sofia. To put the theory to the test, we tried out the brand-new Charlotte Tilbury Eye Colour Magic Collection. You're welcome. 

Green Eyes

"While I love a winged liner look, coloured eye shadow is something I very rarely experiment with myself, usually leaving complicated makeup application to the experts (or my former-makeup artist sister). Despite my trepidation, Charlotte Tilbury's Luxury Palette in Mesmerising Maroon was so easy to use, even for a makeup rookie like me. Not to mention, the rosy-toned shadow and burgundy liner made the perfect contrasted for my green eyes." —Zoe Anastasiou, fashion editor

Hazel Eyes

When I first saw the khaki green shades in the palette, I was worried. I am by no means a whizz when it comes to eye shadow and I felt like trying to find a way to make green work was going to be tricky, to say the least. However, the simple four-step guide on the back of the palette made it all super easy and, actually, I was quite impressed with the results. I was reluctant to go in with the liner, but in the end, I'm so glad that I did because it added a smoke to the look that I think it really needed. As an added bonus, my normally muddy-looking eyes look way more vibrant (if I do say so myself).

Blue Eyes

"So this really works. My eyes don’t normally look as blue as they do in this picture, and as soon as I put the coppery shadow onto my lids my eyes instantly seemed to change colour. I don’t wear much makeup day to day and so am normally scared of anything too trend-led, but these shades feel subtle enough for me to wear them every day. Charlotte, you’re a magician." —Emma Spedding, editor

Brown Eyes

"I'm usually an eye makeup avoider (a few lashings of mascara and I'm set) but, hey, I was up for the challenge this time as I love a bit of Charlotte Tilbury. The blue palette gave more of a grey smoky-eye effect, which would be great for an evening out, but it was adding the eyeliner that really made the colour pop. I wouldn't use this every day but I now have a new go-to if I ever want a bit of drama." —Emily Dawes, freelance branded content editor

Next up, Hermès Beauty has launched, and this is what I really think of the new lipsticks.

As much as we love intricate, over-the-top eye makeup, there’s a lot to be said for something you can achieve in a few short minutes. Even the most accomplished makeup artists have a few quick and easy eye makeup looks at the ready for their clients, and we thought it high time we share some of the tricks of the trade with you. Best of all, you don’t need to be a makeup artist, beauty blogger or even particularly adept with an eye shadow brush to do them at home. (Trust us—they will still end up just as Instagram-worthy.) Thanks to some of our favourite influencers and celebs, there’s no shortage of inspiration to get you started on your journey to eye makeup mastery.

We’ll keep it real: There might be a couple of cat eyes involved. Don’t be scared—they’re easier than they seem and can be transformed into about a zillion different variations. Once you master the technique, you’ll be doing them constantly (promise). That said, there are plenty of other stunning ideas—from subtle shimmer to graphic pops of colour—for the cat-eye averse.

Read on for 13 of the prettiest, easiest eye makeup ideas that can be done in just five minutes or less. Whether your skill set is advanced or you’re looking for a new everyday look or sultry date-night inspiration, you’ll leave here with at least one idea. Plus, we’ve shopped out the must-have products that will help get you started.

Wearing a bold shadow gives the impression that you put effort into your look, even if you, well, didn’t.

Pink Eye Shadow

Lashes are basically camouflage for tired eyes. If you want to wake up with major length, a lash lift or lash extensions are worth the investment (or simply apply a few coats of your favourite mascara).

Lengthening Mascara

More often than not, a ring of rocker-like black liner does the trick, as Lily Aldridge shows here.

Black Eye Kohl

If you can apply eyeliner, you can re-create this simple yet statement-making look.

Green Eye Pencil

Applying this universally flattering colour all around the top and bottom lids give you a day-to-night smoky eye that may be too intense with other, darker shades.

Cream Eye Shadow

Applying two contrasting but complementary colours to the inner and outer corners of your eye couldn’t be easier, but as Halsey demonstrates, the look screams "party.”

Bright Eye Palette

A touch of gloss on your lids catches the light, bringing attention to your eyes with hardly any effort at all.

Eye Gloss

Once you’ve perfected your cat-eye look, you’re ready to graduate to new colours like sleek silver.

Silver Liquid Liner

You don’t have to be Zoë Kravitz to pull off brown shadow—the neutral flatters every skin tone. To complete the look in the easiest way possible, match your eye makeup to your lipstick for a ’90s vibe.

Go-To Browns

Soft green is gorgeous and unexpected if you’re looking to wear colour but don’t want something overly vibrant.

Sheer Green

Applying a pale, shimmery shadow to the inner corners of the eyes gives a wide-awake look in a flash.

Eye Shadow Stick

A layer of metallic shadow adds just the right amount of dressed-up glamour to just about anything—even a terry robe (right, Shay Mitchell?).

Cream Eye Shadow

Next up, if you want to make your beauty routine more sustainable, this is a good start.

If cleansing and moisturising are the basics of your skincare routine, face masks are at the other end of the spectrum—they’re far from essential, but they are great to have around for skincare emergencies or when you need to give your skin a quick fix. Indeed, choosing a face mask with the right ingredients to target your specific skin concerns can make an immediate difference to the look and feel of your skin, and one of the great things about face masks is that they can address any and every complexion concern. Stressed over breakouts? A clay-based mask can help to draw out congestion. Experiencing dehydration? A sheet mask will pack the moisture back into your skin. Want to target dullness? Brighten skin with a peel.

Of course, it’s important to manage expectations. Face masks are no one-stop wonders, nor will they have long-term benefits for your skin in the same way a serum or a professional treatment might, but they are one of the best ways to hit ‘reset’ and target concerns in the short term. "Face masks aren’t a necessity, but more of a ‘nice to have’ in your skincare routine,” says consultant dermatologist at Self London, Anjali Mahto. "But I would recommend that a solid basic skincare routine takes precedence. There’s not much point in using masks (especially expensive ones) if the basics of your skincare routine aren’t in place.” 

It’s also important to understand how best to use them to avoid aggravating skin or triggering another issue. "I’d recommend only using an exfoliating mask once a week, whereas a hydrating one can be used two to three times per week if you like,” says Mahto. "If an exfoliating mask is used too often, it can cause disruption to the skin barrier which can then go on to cause even more issues.”

There are tonnes of different formula options to choose from—sheet, clay, gel, peel, cream, mud—but no matter how sore, stressed out, dehydrated, or tired your skin may be, there’s a face mask out there to help. Scroll down to discover the best face masks for every skin type and concern.

1. The Best Face Mask for Dry Skin

2. The Best Face Mask for Oily Skin

3. The Best Face Mask for Combination Skin

4. The Best Face Mask for Brightening Dull Skin

5. The Best Face Mask for Acne-Prone Skin

6. The Best Face Mask for Hyperpigmentation

7. The Best Face Mask for Targeting Enlarged Pores

8. The Best Face Mask for Tired Skin

9. The Best Face Mask for Reducing Redness

10. The Best Face Mask for Dehydrated Skin

11. The Best Face Mask for Signs of Ageing

12. The Best Face Mask for Sensitive Skin

13. The Best Face Mask for Smoothing Skin Texture

14. The Best Face Multitasking Face Mask

15. The Best Face Mask for City Dwellers

16. The Best Face Mask for Pre-Makeup Prep

17. The Best Face Mask for A Relaxing DIY Facial

Next Up: I’m An Esthetician and These Are My Most-Recommended Skincare Products

As someone who has a 71-year-old beauty fanatic as her mother (surprising I became a beauty editor, right?), I know all too well the trials and tribulations surrounding foundation and mature skin. Of course, finding the best foundation for your skin texture, tone and type is hard enough at any age, but when you throw into the mix age-related conundrums like discolouration from sun damage, fine lines or wrinkles and dehydration, the challenge only gets steeper.

Being that my mum is an actual makeup artist, I've definitely absorbed some of her wisdom and tips over the years—minimal, if any, powder and absolutely no super-matte formulas. She has flawless skin (both with and without makeup), so I've taken her guidance to heart. That said, I was interested to compare notes with some of the top celebrity makeup artists in the industry who regularly cater to Hollywood's leading ladies 40 and over. What foundations do they always have on hand for red carpet prep, and what application tips do they hold gospel to ensure their clients with mature skin look as radiant and healthy as possible? They're covering all that and more below. Keep scrolling! 

The Best Foundation, Product and Application Tips

1. Your Skin Prep Is Everything

Every makeup artist we spoke to explained that without a well-prepped base (i.e. hydrated and healthy skin) any foundation application will flounder. Prepping the skin with the right products and ample moisture is crucial for a seamless, long-lasting finish. 

"I am really, really big on prep—prep is EVERYTHING," exclaims celebrity makeup artist Tamah Krinsky, whose clients include Julianna Margulies, Mary Steenburgen, Judy Greer, Idina Menzel and Christy Turlington. "Regardless of age, how you prep your skin determines how your foundation will sit on your skin, and the more hydrated and healthy your skin is to start, the better your foundation will look. My clients would tell you skin prep is the longest part of their time in the makeup chair with me!"

Krinsky recommends starting the process with a luxe spray like Josh Rosebrook's Hydrating Accelerator (£75) before moving onto an oil. She typically applies around six drops, although it depends on the day and client. "I take three to five minutes to massage the oil from the hairline to the collarbones. It's amazing what that alone can do for your complexion! My favourites are Drunk Elephant Virgin Marula Oil (£34) and Eve Lom Radiance Face Oil (£60)," she says.

Afterward, she'll press a pea-sized amount of moisturiser into the skin to lock all the magic in. She loves anything from Drunk Elephant, Dr. Hauschka or La Roche-Posay.

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2. If You Use Brushes, Make Sure They're Synthetic

So the jury is out on whether or not it's best to use brushes or a damp sponge (like our beloved Beautyblender, £18) for foundation application. Our makeup artists were equally divided in their preference! So we recommend trying both methods to see what you prefer. That said, if you go the brush route, Krinsky recommends using multiple sizes and always reaching for a brush with synthetic brush fibres versus natural hair.

"No matter what foundation I'm using, I always use two brushes—one to deposit the formula and one to blend," she confirms. "I like to use brushes on the smaller side so I can be specific and blend around the structure of the face. To deposit foundation, I use a small flat synthetic eye shadow brush. Synthetic brushes don't hold onto pigment and products as much as natural hair brushes, so you save your products from being wasted, and they leave the foundation where you put them."

To blend, Krinsky tells us she switches to a medium-sized fluffy eye shadow contour brush. Although her brush process takes more time than using a Beautyblender, she thinks it offers more precision in addition to a more seamless result. 

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3. Don't Buy Foundation When You're in a Hurry

Sorry, but finding the right foundation—consistency, finish and shade—takes some time and effort. And Krinsky is especially adamant about taking the time to find your perfect shade. 

"Make sure you are matching your skin tone," she advises. "Always ask for a sample (or better yet, multiple!) and look at yourself in daylight. It should look 100% seamless, and if it isn’t, it’s the wrong shade for you."

4. Don't Apply Foundation to Your Entire Face

"Only use foundation where you need it," Krinsky adds. "Use small amounts, and take your time to blend them into your skin. You don't have to apply a huge amount of foundation to your entire face. You should be using it to even out your skin tone—not to cover your skin."

5. The Right Primer Can Be a Great Sidekick

6. Apply Concealer Before Foundation

7. Forgo Powder—or Apply It With a Beautyblender

Both Murphy and Chanel makeup artist Kate Lee (who counts women like Charlize Theron and Jessica Chastain as regular clients) recommend eliminating—or at least limiting—your powder usage since it can sit into mature skin's fine lines and make a person look older.

8. Know Which Products Should Be Luminous and Which Should be Matte

9. You Need a Specific Protocol If You're Shopping Online

"Let's be real—online swatches are never 100% accurate, and shade names aren't standardised, so it's best to tap into a brand's customer service or a trained makeup artist, whose job it is to know everything, from the curation of foundations to formulation to finish," explains Violet Grey's beauty director, Maureen Choi. "A quick email exchange or phone call with a trusted resource who understands your skin and makeup concerns can make all the difference in receiving the perfect fit on your doorstep.

"Sometimes you have to try before you buy, particularly when it comes to foundation. A good rule of thumb is to ask for samples in three shades—the one you've shade-matched to your complexion, then one shade lighter and one shade deeper. That way, you can test all three in broad daylight and get an accurate sense of what looks best. According to makeup artist and Violet Grey committee member Pati Dubroff, using two shades of foundation—a light shade down the centre of the face and one a shade darker along the perimeter—is the secret to getting the most natural, subtly defined, second-skin look."

The Best Foundations For Women Over 40:

This post was originally published at an earlier time and has since been updated. 

Up Next: Take Note—These Are the 6 Makeup Rules French Women Swear By

Walking the line between buying your bridesmaids something you can afford and said gift feeling entirely sentimental—as well as simultaneously tapping into their tastes—is no easy feat. It can be tough choosing the right thing for the girl or girls who have been through every Pinterest-inspo meltdown or indecisive dress moment. They deserve something lovely. So to give brides one less thing to tick off the list, we've done the legwork and pinpointed 14 great pieces that are ready to be wrapped up with a bow of your choice: From the ultra-pretty jewellery that your pal can stack in her unique way, through to something wackier like her own portable record player (in pink, of course!).

Click through the gallery below to see our top bridesmaids picks. 

It girl Emily Ratajkowski graces the October issue of InStyle UK with bold brows, glossy lips, and a statement sequined look. We're filing this away as inspiration on a chic and minimal way to wear sequins for the upcoming holidays. Keep scrolling for a sneak peek at the issue and how to get Emily's cover look, then head over to InStyle UK for more!

Get Emily's cover look…