Makeup tips for a flawless face

When used appropriately, makeup can be your face’s true ally in the fight to look youthful and fresh.

Cosmetics mogul Laura Mercier and NARS lead stylist Jane Richardson tell Rachel Marie Walsh how to get it right

Eye bags and a sloping of the outer eyes are common signs of ageing. Can you advise on how to counteract these without looking overdone?

Jane Richardson: “Try to avoid using eye shadows which look too shiny on these areas. These will reflect light and draw attention to the area you want to hide. On the outer eyes, use a slightly darker, matte shade to ‘push’ the area back. Be careful not to come out further and below your outer eye as it will start to make the eye droopy again. Try not to overuse concealer. Apply it underneath the bag, rather than on top. Set with a light layer of loose powder, avoiding the outer part of the eye. Apply a matte shadow underneath for a gently smoky effect. For an eye-opening effect, blend the colour down so that it ends at the bottom of your eyeball.”

Which colours look most youthful in daylight?

JR: “Daylight is our harshest critic but I believe any colour can look youthful as long as it is blended and fresh looking [invest in good-quality brushes for quick, professional application]. Rose pinks are always flattering on most skin tones.” Try: Lancôme Highlighter Blush in Rose Ballerine, €45 and Bobbi Brown Lip Color in Pink Kiss, €26.

Which products are best left for evening?

Laura Mercier: “Colours used on the eye and lips should be as natural as possible. Laura Mercier Caviar Stick Eye Colour in Sugar Frost, €30 adds a delicate sheen. That said, you can also use certain classic colours in the day. I think black eyeliner is timeless and trendless because it can be used as a tool to change the shape of the eye — a short, thick line can widen the eye; a long, winged line can give you a sexy, retro effect. Red lipstick can be worn very elegantly, even on a bare face. It doesn’t have to mean you’re trying to seduce someone. It just looks happy. When you wear it, your face wakes up.” Try: Giorgio Armani Rouge Ecstacy in #301 Gio, €28.

Which mascara shades look most youthful?

LM: “I like to keep makeup natural and so recommend using mascara that complements your hair colour. Black is classic but fairer brunettes, blondes and red-heads can opt for a warmer brown or chestnut.” Try: Laura Mercier Full-Blown Volume Mascara, €27.

Is it ageing to use facial contouring and shading to heighten cheekbones?

JR: “Only if done too harshly. Before purchasing products, check how easy they are to blend and how they look on the skin. You want them to look as natural as possible.

If you like using a cream formula, try something like the NARS Matte Multiple, €40, or if you prefer a powder make sure it is not too ‘red’ and matte. I love using NARS Blusher in Zen, €30. Don’t be afraid to seek advice at the counter as it allows the makeup artist to show you where to contour to suit your face shape and how to use the product.”

Should we shy away from shimmer as we age?

LM: “No. I’m a fan of metallic and shimmer eye-colours as they have such long wearability. Dab some shimmer on the inner-eyes to wake up the face or high on the cheeks to show off bone structure.” Try: Giorgio Armani Liquid Sheer, €43.