Whether you’re a makeup junkie and can contour better than a Kattan, or a cosmetics newbie who gets flustered at the sight of a Sephora, there’s always something new to learn when it comes to beauty. Becoming skilled at applying makeup like a professional is often at the top of the list.
With that in mind, Style.com/Arabia spoke to Gregoris Pyrpylis, a makeup artist who has worked with the likes of Lily Aldridge, Diala Makki, and Alessandra Ambrosio, and has done backstage beauty for Balmain and Chanel, to breakdown important tips on how to apply makeup like a professional.
SKIN IS IN
When applying skincare products, gently massage them into your face, eye contour, and neck until the creams are completely absorbed. Massaging helps to activate the circulation of your blood, which in turn helps the skin look radiant.
SO FRESH AND SO CLEAN
If you need to refresh your skin during the day, simply take two drops of your favorite serum, mix it on your palms, and gently dab all over your face (avoid the eyelids) and neck. Skin will once again look radiant and alive—and you won’t have any makeup to remove or redo.
BOLD BROWS
If you don’t have eyebrows, then you need to fake them. Eyebrows should be filled in with an eyebrow pencil or an eyeshadow that’s a shade slightly lighter than your natural hair color; anything darker will make your face look harsh. Always brush brows up and outwards in order to open up your eyes.
THE EYES HAVE IT
If you’re opting for a really intense eye look with a black eye pencil or a full smokey eye, don’t forget to add plenty of eye kohl to the inner waterline of the upper eyelid as well. This will give extra depth to your eyes and will also help your eyelashes look fuller.
COTTON SWABS ARE A GIRL’S BEST FRIEND
After applying eyeshadow on the upper or lower eyelid, smooth out any harsh lines with a cotton swab; this will give a more airbrushed effect.
ADHERING TO GUIDELINES
Before applying liquid eyeliner, first draw a guide with a brown eyeshadow or eye pencil and then go over it with the liquid liner. This will ensure a more defined and even look without any mishaps.
A POUT TO RIVAL KYLIE’S
To make your lips look bigger, use a lip liner in the exact same shade of your lips—but use it only in the center of your upper and lower lip and then fade it out towards the corners. Finish with lipstick or gloss for a truly natural bee-stung appearance.
LIPSTICK THAT STAYS PUT
To ensure your lipstick lasts all day, moisturize lips the night before. In the morning, your pout will be hydrated and you won’t feel the need to use lip balm (which lipstick doesn’t adhere to). Pyrpilis also recommends fixing lipstick in place by dabbing a bit of translucent powder over lips with your fingertip and then applying more of your chosen shade.
POWDER PERFECT
Powder should never be overused. Achieve a more luminous and dewy complexion by powdering only where you don’t want any shine or oil to appear. A bit of powder on the center of the forehead, the sides of the nose, on the chin, and under the eyes, is all that’s needed.
—Gracie Stewart