How To Achieve A Fresh, Healthy, Glowing Base Make-Up

By Joely Walker

The Step-By-Step

CLEANSE & EXFOLIATE: First things first and absolutely crucial, a glowing, glossy make-up look starts with skincare and good skin prep. And the aim here is to remove any dead skin cells lingering on your skin’s surface that will ultimately prevent the light from bouncing back off your skin, stealing your glow (think how much shinier a kitchen worktop looks once you’ve cleaned it and you get the gist).

HYDRATING SERUM: Take your go-to hydrating serum and work this into your skin using your hands. Remember that serums reach the deeper layers of your skin, helping to nourish, hydrate and plump. And don’t forget your neck!

MOISTURIZE: You needn’t apply a thick layer of moisturizer all over. Instead, press it into the skin focusing on the high points of your face where you’d traditionally place your highlighter, building up the glow. Leave this for a few minutes to sink in.

LIP BALM: Now’s a good time to apply a nourishing lip balm, so that once you’ve finished your make-up the formula has sunk in slightly and your lips are prepped and primed for any lipstick or gloss you choose to pop over the top.

PRIMER: An optional step, but one that will pay dividends if you’re working with the right formula, primers with subtle light reflecting particles will enhance your final glow. You only need to use a tiny amount – it’s all about building up fine layers.

FOUNDATION: Choose a light to medium coverage foundation that lets your own skin still shine through (again, we’re after that healthy-looking base over anything full coverage). Apply from the center of your face and work outwards, blending softly and avoiding the hairline. It’s always easier to add to make-up than it is to take it away, so apply a light layer and build up if you need/want to. As for your application tool, using your hands will help melt the formula into your skin, whereas a brush or sponge are options for a slightly fuller coverage.

CONCEALER: Whereas foundation helps even out skin tone for a uniform finish, concealer is your tool for correcting and perfecting. You can choose a brightening formula for under the eye area and something slightly more matte to buff onto any blemishes that need a little extra help.

HIGHLIGHTER: A balm or liquid highlighter will give you dewy radiance. Simply tap your chosen formula onto the high points of your face - such as cheekbones, and perhaps the bridge of the nose and cupid’s bow - and blend in with your fingertips.

BLUSH: If you’re a blush person, now’s the time to add a little pop of color - again, opting for cream or liquid formulas. Apply a little onto the back of your hand first, using it as a palette, and use your middle or ring finger to then tap onto the apples of your cheeks from there (this will help avoid over-applying).