BC Skin Journal

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The secret to a flawless finish: Must-have beauty products

by Jo Boyden on Aug 16 2024

I’m sure I’m right in saying we’d all love to achieve that coveted flawless finish - a smooth, even complexion that looks naturally radiant and free of imperfections! While achieving perfection might seem like the impossible for some, I’m here to tell you that with the right products and techniques, you can definitely get pretty darn close! Keep reading as we reveal the beauty products you need to help you achieve a truly flawless finish. Start with a good skincare routine Before you even think about makeup, lets talk skincare! To achieve a flawless finish you need to get your skincare routine down pat as no makeup, no matter how good it is, will apply smoothy without going onto healthy, hydrated skin! Cleanser First things first, you need to make sure your skin is perfectly cleansed. A cleanser preps skin by removing dirt, oil, and impurities that can clog pores and lead to breakouts or uneven texture. Clean skin allows your makeup to adhere better and last longer, creating a smoother canvas for application. A good cleanser also balances the skin’s pH, preventing dryness or excessive oiliness that can affect your makeup applying smoothly. By starting with a clean, refreshed face, you will set the foundation for a radiant, flawless complexion. Exfoliator Your exfoliator will not only help remove dead skin cells (which if left on the surface of your skin can lead to clogged pores, dullness and rough skin texture!) but by exfoliating your skin you will enable your skincare products like your moisturiser and serum to penetrate more deeply and effectively, in turn boosting their efficacy and therefore deeply nourishing your skin, and as I said before makeup will never look and feel flawless without going onto a healthy, hydrated complexion. You don’t need to exfoliate every day though as this can lead to over-exfoliation, once or twice weekly is ideal. Moisturiser This is non-negotiable. Just be sure to choose a moisturiser suited to your skin type. For combination to oily skin you’ll want to opt for a lightweight, oil free formula. For ageing, dry and dehydrated skin a richer cream formulated with hyaluronic acid should be your go to. N.B. Applying a serum under your moisturiser for an added extra boost of nourishment can be a real game-changer when it comes to achieving that truly flawless finish. Primer When it comes to your makeup, the foundation of a flawless look starts with a good primer. A primer fills in pores, smooths fine lines and skin texture, brightens and primes skin, and preps it for makeup oh and it helps your makeup last longer too! N.B Look for one that matches your skin type—a hydrating primer for dry skin or mattifying primer for oily skin. Now it’s time for your makeup. Foundation Now, let's talk foundation. Your foundation will help even out skin tone, cover blemishes, minimise the appearance of pores and increase skins luminosity! The key though is to find a shade that matches your skin tone perfectly and a formula that suits your skin type. Matte for oily skin, dewy for dry skin. To learn more about the perfect foundation for your skin type click here. Concealer If you suffer from dark circles, are prone to redness or are currently dealing with blemishes or imperfections a concealer should be your go to for touching up your skin! Opt for one that provides full coverage without caking, blending seamlessly into your skin for a natural finish. Blush & Bronzer A blush or bronzer will really enhance your features adding to that flawless finish. They add warmth and dimension to your face. Blush gives your cheeks a healthy glow, while bronzer contours your features for a sun-kissed look. Illuminator or highlighter An illuminator be it stick, powder or cream, will create a natural highlight, and gives skin a fresh, delicate glow, perfect for a brighter appearance! Apply to cheekbones, brow bones, and cupid's bow. Setting your makeup is essential To ensure your makeup stays put all day, setting products are essential! You can opt for a translucent powder which can help control shine while setting your foundation, or simply use a setting spray to lock your makeup in place, preventing smudging and fading. The finishing touches If it’s a complete look you’re going for, you’ll want to finish off with a few other makeup essentials. Eyebrows Well-groomed eyebrows frame your face so youll want to invest in a good eyebrow product, be it a precision pencil or a brow balm. Eyeshadow Eyeshadow enhances your eyes by adding depth, dimension, and colour. It can highlight your eye shape and complement your overall look too! Choose a neutral eyeshadow palette for an everyday look. Mascara Mascara accentuates your eyes by defining, lengthening, and volumizing your lashes, making them appear fuller and more defined. Lipstick or Lip Gloss Completing your makeup with a lipstick or lip gloss will add colour and dimension as well as a polished finish to your face. These products help define your lips, making them stand out and balancing the overall makeup. Whether you opt for a bold lipstick or a subtle gloss, both will enhance your features and tie the entire look together. Plus, they can complement your outfit, mood, or the occasion! And remember don't underestimate the power of good tools. Invest in quality makeup brushes and sponges for a smooth, streak-free application. Proper tools can make all the difference in achieving a professional finish.

Your go-to guide for basic makeup essentials

by Jo Boyden on Aug 10 2024

Building a makeup kit can be somewhat overwhelming especially with so many makeup products on the market! From foundation to primer, contour to blush, and then there is all the many eye, lip and brow products, so where do you even start? Whether you’re a makeup novice or a seasoned pro, there are a few essential items that every woman should have in her makeup arsenal. These basics will help you create everything from a natural everyday look to going all out glam! Keep reading as we rundown the must-have makeup products that form the foundation of any versatile and reliable beauty routine. Skincare Essentials Before you even think about applying makeup to your face you need to prep your skin. A hydrated base is crucial for flawless makeup application so always make sure you have applied your moisturiser. For longer lasting results use a primer too. It will not only ensure you foundation remains firmly on your face all day, but will help create a smooth canvas for your makeup too! Makeup basics Foundation Foundation is the base of any makeup look. It evens out your skin tone, creating a flawless canvas for the rest of your makeup. Depending on your skin type and preference, you can choose between liquid, powder, or cream foundations, but the key is to find one that matches your skin tone perfectly and works well with your skin type. Not sure where to start? Click here to learn how to choose the right foundation type for your skin. Concealer For those pesky blemishes or dark circles, concealer is your best friend. It provides extra coverage where you need it most, helping you achieve a smooth, even complexion. A good concealer is really essential for brightening under the eyes and hiding any imperfections. It can transform your face especially when you are tired too! Powder To set your foundation and concealer, a powder is a must. A good translucent powder helps to keep your makeup in place and controls shine throughout the day. Blush Adding a pop of colour to your cheeks with blush can really make a huge difference! Blush gives your face a healthy, natural glow, making you look fresh and awake. Choose a shade that complements your skin tone—peachy tones for a natural flush or rosy hues for a more pronounced look. Eyeliner Eyeliner can instantly define your eyes and elevate your look. Whether you opt for a classic black pencil, a sharp liquid liner, or a smudgy gel, eyeliner helps enhance the shape of your eyes and adds intensity to your makeup. Mascara No makeup look is complete without mascara. It lengthens, volumizes, and defines your lashes, making your eyes appear bigger and more awake. A good mascara can transform your entire look with just a few swipes. Mascara is my definite no. 1 when it comes to makeup basics, wouldn’t leave the house without it! Eyebrow Pencil Sometimes overlooked, brows are in fact a very important part of our makeup routine. By using an eyebrow pencil you can add definition and shape and create the illusion of fuller looking brows! As you age your eyebrows get naturally thinner. By adding definition and shape to them you can completely transform your face and give the appearance of an instant eye lift! Start by brushing your eyebrows so the hairs are sitting naturally, then use a soft, waxy brow pencil to shape and fill in your brows using short, hair-like strokes. For more tips on how to create perfect brows click here. Lipstick or Lip Gloss As we age, unfortunately our lips do too! They become thinner with loss of collagen and moisture and their vibrant colour starts to fade due to the loss of pigment too! The amazing thing about lipstick is it adds that much needed colour, volume and depth to lips making them stand out! It’s no secret that wearing lipstick can dramatically enhance your mood too, it can make you feel confident and sexy! Just be sure to choose shades that complement your skin tone and can easily transition from day to night. Want to know which shades might be best for you? Click here. Lipliner This once understated product is now a staple for makeup artists, influencers and makeup enthusiasts alike and for very good reason! Lipliner doesn’t only help to create fuller looking lips but it also helps to ensure your lipstick doesn’t bleed and has a longer-wear finish. Want fuller looking lips? Here’s how to achieve them with lipliner Makeup Brushes and Tools The right tools can make all the difference in your makeup application. Invest in a set of high-quality brushes for foundation, powder, eyeshadow, and blush, as well as a beauty sponge for seamless blending. And don’t forget a good eyeshadow palette, while not essential, a versatile eyeshadow palette is a must-have for creating various eye looks. From neutral shades for a subtle daytime look to bolder colours for an evening out, a good palette offers endless possibilities you just need to know how to best apply it. For the best eyeshadow tips for ageing eyes click here. These makeup basics are the foundation of any beauty routine. With these essentials, you can create a variety of looks and feel confident in your makeup application, whether you're heading to work, out with friends, or to a special event! Remember, less is often more when starting out. Experiment with different products and techniques to find what works best for you and enjoy the process of building your perfect makeup collection!

How to achieve the best makeup look from the 2024 Oscars

by Jo Boyden on Mar 14 2024

From elegant updo’s and radiant skin, beautiful bold eyes and subtle nude lips, the 2024 Oscars dazzled not only with cinematic brilliance but also with show-stopping makeup looks that stole the spotlight.Want to channel some red-carpet glamour yourself? Keep reading as we countdown 6 steps to recreate the best makeup look of the night – awarded to Jennifer Lawrence!Like a modern-day Audrey Hepburn, Jennifer Lawrence bought winged liner back into business! Sporting thick liquid liner over a wash of perfectly blended taupe shadow, coupled with beautifully bronzed skin, impeccably groomed brows and a subtle nude lip, she was the epitome of Old School Hollywood Glamour, and here’s how you can be too! Step 1 – Flawless baseStart by prepping your skin with a nourishing primer. Creating an extra layer between your skin and makeup, the primer will plump fine lines, blur imperfections and blemishes, smooth skin, and help makeup last all day without caking, creasing or the need for constant touch-ups. It's often the forgotten step but Oh so important! Trust me.Next to create Jennifers flawless base, use a soft matte, long-wearing foundation, we LOVE ELES Cosmetic’s best-selling Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation). Matte foundations provide a smooth finish, perfect to recreate Jennifer Lawrence's look. Finish this step by concealing any blemishes or dark circles with a full-coverage concealer such as ELES Liquid Concealer. Step 2 - Bronzed radianceNow it’s time to enhance your features and add some colour to your face! Apply a bronzer to contour beneath your cheeks and jawline to “slim” the face (we recommend the ELES Mineral Sheer Bronzer in Rio De Janeiro as its Silky, mineral-enriched and imparts a natural radiance and youthful glow without streaking.) Then apply a little extra to your forehead to add that “sun-kissed” warmth. Finish by applying a touch of warm-toned blush to add a hint of colour to your cheeks. Step 3 – Stand out eyesEmbrace old school glamour when it comes to your eyes by firstly applying a neutral eyeshadow across your lids. Next use a taupe or soft brown shade and blend softly above the crease of your eye lid, as well as beneath the lower lash line for a subtle smoky finish. Finally add your third shade (a deeper brown) to just below your brow bone. Try the ELES’s Build your own shadow palette and choose the shades that would work best for you. Next it's time to amp up the drama with a jet-black liquid eyeliner, like ELES Felt Tip Liner, adding a winged effect. Finish with a coat of volumizing mascara for fluttery lashes. Step 4 - BrowsNow it's time to put some emphasise into your eyebrows. We recommend you use the ELES Brow Blender in Dark Taupe. With the spool end, brush the brows upwards, then using short soft strokes apply the pencil. Step 5 - Subtle lips Complete Jennifer Lawrences Oscars look with a soft, nude lip colour. Choose a hydrating formula for a plump pout. We adore the ELES Velvet Satin lipstick in Middlesex Street. Outline your lips with a nude lip liner such as the ELES Gel Lipliner in naked for added definition. Step 6 - Final touches Add a sweep of translucent powder to ensure longevity. A setting spray will add a natural dewiness or lock in your look too.Remember, practice makes perfect. Experiment with these steps, adapting them to suit your unique features and personal style.

Party ready makeup – get the look

by Jo Boyden on Nov 30 2023

It's that time of the year again – the silly season as we like to call it! The season of fun and festivities, and, of course, Christmas get togethers and parties!To look your best, and stand out from the crowd of course! You’ll need to nail that party ready makeup look, we are talking skin that glows and eyes that shimmer and pop. Want to achieve our go-to look? Keep reading for the ultimate step by step guide. Step 1. Pre party prepBefore we jump into creating the perfect party ready makeup look, let's talk skin prep. You’ll need to thoroughly cleanse your skin first with your choice of cleanser, next apply your much-loved moisturiser, (make sure you let it soak in) then it’s time to prime. Think of it as the canvas for your masterpiece. A smooth base will ensure your makeup lasts all day or all night long!Step 2. Apply your foundationNow it’s time for your makeup! Starting with foundation. Not sure which foundation to use. Click here for the best foundation for your skin type.For skin that glows we love the ELES Mineral Sheer Tint. Work a small amount into your fingertips to warm the product and press into the skin all over the face, keep patting and pressing until the product is evenly dispersed then lightly blend into the face with your fingers until you have an even coverage.If you are more of a matte lover though (but still want to achieve a radiant base), we highly recommend the ELES Foundation Stick or Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation.Step 3: Touch up skin where necessary with a concealerYou’ll want to use concealer to cover any blemishes or dark circles you may have. Apply a small amount to areas where needed or under eyes with fingertips or a small concealer brush gently blending. Try ELES Dual Action Concealer my personal secret weapon for concealing dark under eyes.Step 4: Set with PowderOnce you’ve finished applying your base it’s a good idea to set the products with a translucent setting powder like ELES Mineral Powder Foundation to prevent shine. Step 5: Bronzer and Blush Now it’s time for you to add some colour!We are loving the ELES Party Ready Makeup Palette! It really is perfect for creating a party ready look. It features a bronzer, blush and two shimmer eyeshadow shades.Firstly take your bronzer to add contour to your face. Using a large fluffy powder brush apply to the cheekbones, under the jawline and along the perimeter of the forehead, blend well for a natural sun kissed look. Follow with the Blush, applying it to the apples of your cheeks for that beautifully flushed finish. Step 6: Highlight For a truly lit from within look, this is a step you won't want to miss! Highlighter can also be used to accentuate and "lift" bone structure. It's amazing!Apply highlighter to the high points of your face, such as cheekbones, the bridge of your nose, and the cupid's bow. We recommend the ELES Stick Illuminator.Step 7: All about the eyesNow it’s time to accentuate those eyes. You’ll want to take the ELES Party Ready Palette again using the two shimmer shadows.Firstly apply the pinky/peach shade all over the eyelid. Next, apply the gold shade on the base of your eyelid carefully blending up towards the eye crease and below the lower lash line to create a natural smoky eye. Finish by applying a little of this shade to the inner corners of your eyes with your fingertip.Step 8: Add eyeliner for definitionEyeliner shapes and defines eyes and makes eyelashes look thicker. Take a bronze shade eye liner and apply it to the upper lash line as well as a little to your bottom waterline. This will help eyes to pop. We love ELES Superwear Gel Liner in Baroque. It is super smooth and longwearing so stays put all day long without smudging! Just what you need from an eyeliner! Step 9: Finish with lashings of mascaraAnd finally to finish off the eyes, apply several coats of Lush Mascara in Black to the top and bottom lashes. Work from the base of the lashes wiggling the wand slowly up the lashes for extra volume. Step 10: Define your browsFor some, your eyebrows can be an afterthought, but by defining and shaping them you can completely transform your face and give the appearance of an instant eye lift too! Start by brushing your eyebrows so the hairs are sitting naturally, then use a soft, waxy brow pencil like the ELES Precision Brow Pencil to shape and fill in your brows using short, hair-like strokes. Next, define and ‘lift’ brows by using a white eyeliner as a brow highlighter. Line below and above your eyebrows and smudge it out with a sponge or fingertip. You can also opt to use a highlighter if you don’t have a white liner on hand. Read more on how to create the perfect brows. Step 11: Complete the look by focusing on your lipsTo complete the look, it's time to focus on your lips. Apply lipstick to the lips with a lip brush to create definition in the outer edges, blot the lips with tissue, then reapply from the tube directly to the lips. Blot again for a soft matte finish. Use a lipstick colour of your choice, one that complements your overall look. Bold or neutral shades can work depending on your preference. You can add a little gloss too as desired. And voila! You're ready to shine!

Beauty Collective - makeup for beginners

Makeup for beginners: The essential products you need

by Jo Boyden on Mar 30 2023

With the multitude of makeup products, colours, trends and tutorials out there, it’s no wonder, especially if you are new to the world of makeup, it can seem a little overwhelming. And then there are the many foundation formulations, lipstick and eyeshadow shades, tools of the trade and more, so how exactly are you supposed to know what foundation formula is the right one for you? How to apply eyeshadow correctly? Or what colour lipstick you should wear? The thing is while makeup is magical (it can completely transform your appearance, make you look younger and feel more confident) choosing the right makeup can be a challenge. That is why it’s best to start with the basics! Know which products we really need and why. Keep reading for the BC guide to the ultimate makeup essentials for beginners. Primer The first step to your makeup routine, primer is often overlooked. But this outstanding product not only blurs your pores and smooths your skin, primers can also help decrease oil production and enhance the longevity and pigmentation of your makeup.We recommend: ELES Retexturizing Face Primer not only does this soothing, lightweight serum feel like actual silk on your skin, it basically helps protect, condition, smooth and blur out skin imperfections too! Oh and it will keep makeup in place all day long. Want to look like a filtered goodness, and have makeup last the distance, try this!For more information on primer and it’s many benefits click here. Foundation Available in a variety of different formulations from liquid to matte, sheet to powder, foundation will improve your skin tone and provide an even complexion creating the perfect smooth base for the rest of your makeup.Choosing which formulation is right for you can be tricky though so if you want to know which one is likely best for your skin click here.We recommend: ELES Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation. This silky formulation literally guides onto skin and sets to a beautifully soft and subtle matte finish providing flawless coverage every time. It’s also mineral-enriched (so great for your skin) and provides broad spectrum sun protection! Honestly what more could you ask for! You don’t need to just take our word for it though, the many reviews on BC speak for themselves!Don’t feel like wearing foundation? We’ve got 4 alternative skin perfecting products you should try! Concealer A concealer is especially important for anyone with blemishes or other imperfections they wish to cover. They can be used to conceal everything from spots to dark circles, imperfections, and redness. If you’re lucky enough to have a clear complexion, you may be able to skip this stage of your makeup routine though.We recommend: ELES Dual Action Concealer. My secret weapon for concealing my dark under eye circles and helping me look like I’ve had 8 hours of blissful slumber as opposed to only 5! It’s also wonderful at concealing those unwanted pesky blemishes and is formulated with a myriad of anti-ageing wonder ingredients including Hyaluronic acid, Caffeine, Vitamins C & E, Collagen and more! Oh and it actually helps to gradually improve skin’s texture while concealing! Powder Powder isn’t for everyone but it’s a wonderful product to set your foundation. It’s also an amazing option for those that tend to have combination to oily skin.We recommend: ELES Mineral Powder Foundation. It provides the perfect buildable coverage - from natural sheer to polished opaque. It’s also packed with vitamins A & E to condition skin, provide antioxidant protection and add a subtle luminosity. Blush and/or bronzer Whether you want to add a healthy glow to your skin or add some definition to your look these products are a must. Simply apply blush to the apples of your cheeks and sweep bronzer under your cheekbones and down the middle of your nose for a naturally Sunkissed look.We recommend: ELES Baked Blush and Baked Bronzer, These super fine powders apply effortlessly and are baked to a lightweight, subtle pearl finish to impart a beautifully healthy long-lasting glow. Jet milled pigments also create an airbrushed effect for a flawless finish. Eyeshadow Eyeshadow is the no. 1 product for adding depth and dimension to your eyes. It will not only enhance your eyes but complement your eye colour, make eyes appear larger, or simply draw attention to them!A neutral eyeshadow palette will be your go to for beginners. The combination of shades ensures you can create simple makeup looks that are versatile and fail-safe. Just be sure to apply a wash of the lightest shade to your eyelid first. Then follow with a slightly darker shade blending outwards.To learn more about how to master eyeshadow application and why and how your should wear it click here.We recommend: ELES Naturals Collection Eyeshadow Trio. This sleek and convenient palette includes a versatile collection of 3 mineral eye shades and offers the perfect combination of beautiful earth tones to suit everyone. The feather-light formula is enriched with natural skin-caring ingredients including vitamins A, C & E to help provide antioxidant defence while conditioning and protecting the delicate eye area. Richly pigmented and silky smooth to apply, every shade delivers rich, opaque colour for hours of crease-resistant wear. Mascara Mascara is a must makeup item for beginners. This miracle product completes any eye makeup look by lengthening, volumizing and enhancing your lashes creating the illusion of bigger, wider and more youthful looking eyes.We recommend: ELES Lush Mascara as it builds strength, volume and length with no smudging and smearing. Eyeliner Eyeliner shapes and defines eyes and makes eyelashes look thicker. It can be drawn above upper lashes or below lower lashes or both.We recommend: ELES Superwear Gel Eyeliner, it comes in five great shades, is super smooth and longwearing so stays put all day long without smudging! Just what you need from an eyeliner! Eyebrow pencil Sometimes overlooked, brows are in fact a very important part of our makeup routine. By using an eyebrow pencil you can add definition and shape and create the illusion of fuller looking brows!As you age your eyebrows get naturally thinner. By adding definition and shape to them you can completely transform your face and give the appearance of an instant eye lift! Start by brushing your eyebrows so the hairs are sitting naturally, then use a soft, waxy brow pencil to shape and fill in your brows using short, hair-like strokes.We recommend: ELES Precision Brow pencil. This double ended brow tool (one end pencil, one end grooming brush) offers controlled brow filling and lining to quickly and effortlessly impart long-lasting, fuller, natural looking brows! Lipliner This once understated product is now a staple for makeup artists, influencers and makeup enthusiasts alike and for very good reason! Lipliner doesn’t only help to create fuller looking lips but it also helps to ensure your lipstick doesn't bleed and has a longer-wear finish.We recommend: ELES Gel Lipliner. It’s a super smooth, long-wearing (and moisturising) liner with intense colour pay-off, and it provides the perfect blendable application.11. Lipstick/Lip glossAs we age, unfortunately our lips do too! They become thinner with loss of collagen and moisture and their vibrant colour starts to fade due to the loss of pigment too! The amazing thing about lipstick is it adds that much needed colour, volume and depth to lips making them stand out! It's no secret that wearing lipstick can dramatically enhance your mood too, it can make you feel confident and sexy!Lipstick is the final step to the perfect makeup routine, the finishing touch to complete your daily look.We recommend: ELES Velvet Satin Lipstick. With a fantastic selection of colours, this lipstick has a beautifully rich, satin finish and is a dream to apply thanks to it’s smooth, nourishing and pearl-saturated formula. Infused with lasting pigments and enriched with a lip-loving blend of emollient oils and butters, the ultra-comfortable texture helps keep lips soft, smooth, supple and super-hydrated throughout the day.Want to know which colour lipstick you should wear? Click here.If you are simply not a huge fan of wearing lipstick daily you can opt for using a lip liner with coloured lip gloss instead!Want fuller looking lips? Here’s how to achieve them with lipliner

Makeup brushes THE GUIDE: How to choose the right ones

by Jo Boyden on Mar 09 2023

We all love to invest in our favourite makeup products, from the best BB Creams and bronzers to our formidable foundations and mascaras, but what about the tools of the trade? Makeup brushes are an essential for any makeup routine. After all how are you supposed to apply your mineral powder foundation, or that much loved bronzer? Let alone your eyeshadow and blush. That’s right, from foundation to concealer, eyeshadow, cheeks and lips, there is a makeup brush for literally every makeup category, but how are you supposed to know which makeup brushes to use to nail that flawless makeup finish?Keep reading as we reveal 5 tips to help you choose the right makeup brushes for you: Consider the type of makeup you use vs the brushes shape and size Different makeup products be it for example foundation or blusher require different makeup brushes. And the shape of the brush will determine the area of the face it is best suited for.For example a large flat brush is best for applying liquid foundation, a large fluffy brush is perfect for powder foundation while a tapered (a brush that reduces in size and thickness towards the end) brush is best for precise application on smaller areas like under your eyes. Look for high-quality brush bristles Investing in high-quality makeup brushes will make all the difference in the application and longevity of your makeup. The bristles should be soft and durable, should not irritate the skin in any way, nor should they shed or lose their shape over time. Synthetic bristles are usually the best option because they are durable, easy to clean and hygienic. Synthetic brush bristles are usually made of nylon or polyester, however ELES Cosmetics’ range of professional makeup brushes are made from taklon, a “green” and allergy free synthetic fibre. Their smooth synthetic fibres do not absorb or trap pigment making it easy to keep clean. Makeup brushes with natural bristles are another option, however they are made with animal hair to provide a very soft finish. Check the makeup brush handle A comfortable handle is important to ensure steady and precise makeup application. Look for brushes with sturdy and easy to grip handles. Consider your budget There are a wide range of makeup brushes available in the market with varying price ranges. Decide on your budget and invest in good quality brushes as these will last you a long time. Keep those brushes clean Your makeup tools are meant to be washed. Besides bacteria, brushes also accumulate dead skin cells and oil which can clog your pores leading to skin irritation and pesky pimples! Also if you apply your makeup with a dirty bush the end result can be a streaky and patchy complexion! Clean brushes definitely make for a smoother makeup application!You should clean your makeup brushes once a month by swishing them in a cup of warm water with a little shampoo. Rinse the brushes and lie them flat on a towel on the counter until they dry.Still confused? Here are some of the most commonly used makeup brushes for the different makeup categories; Foundation: A flat, densely packed brush or a beauty sponge is ideal for applying foundation. Try ELES Foundation Brush or Large Concealer Brush Concealer: A small, pointed brush is best for applying concealer. A concealer brush has a small head and is ideal for targeting specific areas. Try ELES Small Concealer Brush or Tapered Detail Brush Powder: A large fluffy brush is perfect for applying powder. Look for a brush with long, fluffy bristles that can pick up just the right amount of product. Try ELES Powder Brush Blush: A medium-sized angled brush or a fan brush is great for applying blush. An angled brush allows you to apply blush precisely to your cheekbones, while a fan brush can be used to dust a light layer of blush over cheeks and other areas of your face. Try ELES Powder Blush Brush Contour: A small, angled brush or a small fan brush is best for contouring. An angled brush allows you to apply the product in a precise line, while a fan brush can be used to dust a light layer of contour powder over the face. Try ELES Tapered Powder Brush Eyeshadow: There are several brushes that are ideal for applying eyeshadow! Eek you might say, however this all depends on the look you are going for. A flat, dense brush is great for packing on colour, while a fluffy blending brush is perfect for blending out harsh lines. A small tapered brush can be used to apply eyeshadow to the crease or to smudge eyeliner. Try ELES Base Shadow Brush, Blending Brush and Small Tapered Blending Brush. Eyeliner: A small, flat makeup brush or a pointed brush is perfect for applying eyeliner. An flat brush allows you to create precise lines, while a pointed brush is ideal for created a winged liner look. Try ELES Flat Definer Brush and ELES Small Eyeliner Brush By following all these tips, you can choose the right makeup brushes that will help you achieve flawless makeup every time.

The best eyeshadow tips for ageing eyes

by Jo Boyden on Nov 17 2022

If you’re worried about ageing eyes you might well have stopped wearing eyeshadow in fear it will only exacerbate your fine lines and wrinkles. The thing is eyeshadow and all eye makeup for that matter serves a very important purpose no matter what your age! It can add depth and dimension to your eyes making them appear larger, it can complement your eye colour or simply draw attention to the eyes! And most importantly it will bring back life to your ageing eye area! Genius! So instead of forgoing eyeshadow, you just need to alter how, and which type you use! To get the lowdown, we talked to the experts at BC! Keep scrolling as we countdown 10 of the best eyeshadow tips for mature women. Start with a good eye cream It’s likely you’re doing this already, but if not, you’ll want (and need) the delicate skin around your eyes to be properly nourished! And we are talking both the eyelid and the undereye area! For a great eye cream for ageing eyes try Pevonia’s Age Correction Eye Contour. It’s formulated with Marine Collagen, Marine Elastin and Green Team which not only provide eyes with powerful anti-ageing benefits, it smooths, first and deeply nourishing the fragile eye zone too. Use a primer As our skin ages, under-eye wrinkles and crows feet become more apparent – they are a fact of life for us all! A good primer however will help reduce their appearance while increasing the longevity of your eyeshadow! It’ll also prep your eyelids preventing eye makeup from creasing, feathering, smudging or smearing! Apply a good under-eye concealer This will make eyes appear bigger and brighter in prep for your eyeshadow. Concealer isn't just for brightening up your under eyes though. Prepping the eye with a concealer that's about two shades lighter than your actual shade will make your eyeshadow more pigmented and in turn pop a lot more.You’ll need to use one with has a hydrating formula as this will add additional nourishment to the eye area as well as prevent the concealer from settling into fine lines and wrinkles.Try ELES Cosmetics Dual Action Concealer. Use a waterproof or long-lasting gel eyeliner You don’t want to get to lunch time and find yourself with panda eyes! No sireee. By using a waterproof or long-lasting gel eyeliner, it’ll stay in place all day plus give eyes much needed depth and definition. Try ELES Cosmetics Superwear Gel Liner. Line your eyes with a waterline liner Eyes tend to look duller and tired with age. A waterline liner will open up your eyes instantly creating the illusion of bigger, brighter, more youthful looking eyes.Simply apply your normal eyeliner to your top lash line then apply your waterline liner to the inner rim of your lower lash line. (We recommend ELES Cosmetics Waterline Liner). By doing so it’ll immediately open up your eyes as well as make the whites of your eyes look whiter. It works a treat I can vouch for that! Opt for matte eyeshadow and go mineral Eye shadow comes in many different colours and textures but for ageing eyes matte eyeshadows are the way to go. Those with mature eyes might find matte eyeshadow more longwearing and less likely to fade on their skin. Your best bet is to stock up on mineral matte eyeshadows that are pigmented without emphasizing fine lines but also packed with antioxidant vitamins A, C & E to pamper lids with crease-proof perfection. Try ELES Cosmetics Mineral Matte Shadows. Better still try the ELES Build your own Shadow Palette, you get to select which ever 3 shades of mineral shadow shades you want! A trio of colours on your eyes is always better than one, they will make your eyes stand out more and can also increase their size and let’s face it bigger eyes are more youthful! Choose lighter eyeshadow shades Opt for a lighter, natural eyeshadow shades rather than dark, smoky shades on your eyelids and around the eyes. Using neutral colours like shades of light browns, light pinks, beiges, or greys are best. Also add a light colour eyeshadow shade to the inner corner, lower lash line in outer corner, and the inner lid. Apply eye shadow correctly Don’t take your base eyeshadow shade and simply plonk it on the centre of your lid. Using a small eyeshadow brush, start from the outer corner of the eyes and work inwards, so that the colour gets gradually lighter. This will help give your eyes a bigger, wide-eyed look. Finish with mascara No matter your age, mascara will always be a go-to product. A good mascara (we are talking smudge-proof, waterproof, and long-lasting) adds volume and strengthens brittle lashes to keep them looking full and luscious. Fuller-looking lashes can also help to give a more youthful appearance to the eye area. However, it’s best not to wear mascara on the lower lashes as this can make your eyes look droopy as well as draw attention to dark circles and under eye wrinkles. Use a setting spray or powder Finally, to prevent eyeshadow fallout (after all we want it to stay in place all day or night long!) use a setting spray or if setting sprays aren't your thing, opt for a setting powder instead! Both work to lock your makeup in place. Try Pevonia Hyaluronic Acid Hydra Mist.

A complete guide on where and how to apply blush correctly

by Jo Boyden on Oct 28 2022

Ah blush! The one product in your beauty arsenal that can enhance the features on your face while providing skin with a natural warm, rosy glow.I’m personally a huge lover of blush and wear mine daily all year round. It’s the perfect go-to when you’re after a minimal makeup look that’s quick and easy to apply. It also works in perfect unison with bronzer when you want to contour your face or simply create a healthy sun kissed glow. The problem is with the many conflicting tutorials out there, where, and how do you actually apply it? Well, we turned to the experts at Beauty Collective for the low-down. Keep reading for our complete guide on all things blush!Why you should wear blushWhen used correctly, blush can totally transform pale, dull or washed-out skin. It infuses warmth into any complexion by adding a touch of natural, flushed-cheek colour, so your face looks instantly brighter, healthier (and perkier!)Blush is also a great multitasker! This complexion booster not only adds colour to your cheeks but can also double as an eyeshadow (a great way to tie your makeup look together) and if you opt for a brown-toned blusher you can use it to contour your face. That way you get a blush and contour effect in one – a great time-saver!What type of blush should you use?Today’s blushes come in many textures — cream, powder, liquid. As a general rule of thumb, cream is great for dry skin, while powder is the best option for oily skin types, but it’s also a personal preference. Natural makeup works well with creams, but with powder you can be more direct on where you place it, and it tends to last longer too.However, for the best of both worlds we highly recommend baked blush – a pigment packed powder blush! Powders are usually made from lots of pressed powders, but baked powders are actually creams that have been baked slowly in a specialist oven until they are dry. This is what gives baked makeup some of its unique attributes; it has an ultra-soft, velvety texture and provides a sheer wash of soft colour for a naturally flushed complexion.How do you choose the right blush shade?Choosing the right shade can be a little tricky. Firstly, you need to understand your skin’s undertone (whether it’s warm, cool or neutral) then once you know this, choose a shade within your undertone, you can go as light, natural, bright or deep as you want.In general, if you have fair skin opt for light, dusty pinks and sheer peaches. If you want to make a bold statement, you can even give bright pink a go!For medium skin bright pink looks great on a cool undertone while coral and orange bring out warm tones.And if your skin is more on the olive side, anything with a golden undertone will bring out the rich warm tones in your skin. If you’re more of a cool olive, try light plums and cool pinks.How to apply blushHow you apply your blush is just as important as the type and shade you choose. Firstly, you have to select the right tool for application! Opt for a sponge when using creams, a sponge or fingers work fine with liquids and use a brush for powders.If powder blush is for you, you need to choose your brush wisely too! A big soft brush can be very ineffective. Choosing a specific powder blush brush is your best bet as it tends to be on the firmer side so that when you apply the blush to your skin you can control the powder and ensure in spreads correctly and in the right place.Where to apply blushThe ever-popular question of where to apply your blush can have a different answer depending on what you read, or what the trends are, however here at BC we use the general rule of thumb as below;For a natural lookFollow the natural structure of your cheekbones. It’s best to smile and then apply blush to the apples of your cheek and blend towards your temples/ears. This will lift your cheekbones and add a little extra colour to your face without looking over the top.For an instant facelift (and to make your face appear more oval-shaped)Apply blush to the back of your cheekbones into your templesFor a sun kissed glowApply blush underneath your eyes, across the bridge of the nose, and back toward the ear.To shorten your face and create balanceApply blush to the centre of the apples and out, just toward your eyes, avoiding blending too far out toward the temples.Just remember blending is key when it comes to blush application!How can you make your blush last all day?Applying a primer to your skin before makeup application will help keep makeup in place.Also, once you’ve completed your makeup routine, use a facial mist or setting spray such as Pevonia’s Hyaluronic Acid Hydra Mist.Now go yonder and blush away! And experience how incredibly energizing it can be for your complexion!

Beauty Collective - younger looking eyes

Want younger looking eyes? 14 tips from the BC Pros

by Jo Boyden on Aug 05 2022

Noticed your eyes looking particularly tired of late? Dark and puffy perhaps? Or have those fine line and wrinkles you fear really started to show but the idea of Botox and fillers isn’t for you? Unfortunately, the delicate skin around our eyes is one of the first areas to show signs of ageing, so it’s essential we give it the same level of TLC as the rest of our skin! Keep reading as we reveal 15 expert tips on how to look after our eyes and make them look younger naturally. 1. Start caring for your eyes from a young age Prevention is paramount we all know that and like with our skin you are never too young to start caring for your eyes. But fear not, just in case you’ve left it until now to really look after this most delicate area, there are still many things you can do to keep eyes looking younger so read on! 2. Give yourself a mini facial massage every day By doing so you’ll help improve circulation and calm the fluid build-up around your eye area. Try using a gemstone roller. As well as their many medicinal benefits, they can dramatically reduce puffiness by removing excess fluid around the eyes towards your lymph nodes where it filters out toxins! So clever! To find out more about gemstone rollers and their multitude of benefits click here. 3. Apply an eye cream morning and night You do not want to leave the skin around your eyes dry, ever! Applying an eye cream morning and night will not only ensure eyes are receiving the nourishment they require but will also help target signs of ageing and fatigue such as puffiness, under eye bags, lines and wrinkles. Look for products formulated with hyaluronic acid and shea butter for nourishment, vitamin c for brightening and caffeine which helps reduce swelling by constricting the blood vessels. Also use a tapping motion with your finger which you apply it. This can help get rid of any excess fluid that’s accumulated under the delicate eye area. In the morning opt for a cooling eye gel. Try Pevonia’s C Evolutive Eye Gel, it’s a personal favourite of mine and highly recommended by the BC Pros. It’s a wonderful, cooling gel, formulated with anti-ageing dynamo Vitamin C, skin saviours’ hyaluronic acid and Ginkgo biloba, as well as green coffee and it’ll have your peepers decongested and depuffed in one swift application!At night choose a nourishing eye cream like Vie Collection’s Chrono Eyes Puffiness-Dark Circles Wrinkles Cream. Yes, a mouthful to say, but a product that does exactly what it says. It’s a beautifully fine cream enriched with moisturising ingredients to nourish the eye area while reversing puffiness, dark circles, and wrinkles! Seriously! it gives immediate gratification thanks to a pearlescent finish that instantly brightens the eye area, and it has definitely calmed my puffiness, lightened my dark circles, and even smoothed my wrinkles! 4. Use a primer under your eyes before applying makeup As you age your skin becomes more prone to fine lines around your eyes. You want to conceal them but it’s best to do so by using a primer first. This will help fill in any lines and make the skin appear smoother (essential if you want to prevent makeup falling into the creases and exacerbating the appearance of the lines!) Use your ring finger and gentle dab your primer over the wrinkles to the sides of your eyes and spread. 5. Invest in a good concealer As well as becoming prone to fine lines and wrinkles, the delicate skin around our eyes becomes thinner with age too! This unfortunately makes it easier to see the blood vessels beneath you skin which is what causes the appearance of dark circles. It’s best to choose a concealer that is lighter than your foundation (this will help brighten your eyes) and one that is yellow based as this will counteract any purple or blue that you may have in your undereye thanks to the blood vessels. Use a concealer brush, beauty blender or your fingers to blend. Try ELES Dual Action Concealer. This anti-aging concealer actually helps to gradually improve skin’s texture while concealing those obvious under eye dark circles. Its moisturising formula provides continuous hydration as well as a natural longwearing finish meaning it lasts for hours without seeping into fine lines and wrinkles! 6. Line the outer edges of your upper lid to make your eyes look lifted Annoyingly as we get older the skin on our eyelids tends to droop too! By using an eyeliner on your top lash line from the middle to the outer corners with a tiny flick at the end (we are talking very subtle cats’ eye) will bring back the youthful shape to your eyes. Just be sure the line is thin as you want it to look natural and not over done! 7. Curl your lashes! While applying lashings of mascara to lashes will enhance your eyes, remember to curl your lashes first. This will open up your eyes for a wide-eyed look. While it might be a small step, it’s a subtle one that can make a big difference so don’t skip on it. Just be sure to apply two coats of mascara after curling. This will help lock the curl in place as well as add volume to your lashes. 8. Add definition and shape to your thinning eyebrows As you age your eyebrows get naturally thinner. By adding definition and shape to them you can completely transform your face and give the appearance of an instant eye lift! Start by brushing your eyebrows so the hairs are sitting naturally, then use a soft, waxy brow pencil like the ELES Precision Brow Pencil to shape and fill in your brows using short, hair-like strokes. Read more on how to create the perfect brows. 9. Reduce your sodium (salt!) intake Believe it or not, too much salt in your diet can affect your eyes and make them look older. Unfortunately, the delicate skin around your eyes is at higher risk of getting puffy the more salt you consume. Extra sodium unfortunately makes your body retain water. This excess water causes puffiness. Aghhh. So, try to ditch (ok maybe just cut down!) on the chips, takeaway and if you’re a fan like me, the margarita’s too! 10. Take a break from screen time We are all guilty of spending hours in front of our devices, but this excessive screen time can actually reap havoc with our precious peepers thanks to the blue light they omit! The thing is screens are a part of our daily lives so while it’s not possible to get rid of them, reducing the time spent in front of them or having breaks in between to rest our eyes can help dramatically. To learn more about blue light damage and how it affects your eyes, click here. 11. Apply cucumbers (and chamomile tea bags) to your eyes It’s no myth, by placing slices of cool cucumber over your closed eyelids for 5-10 minutes will help brighten and hydrate your eyes as well as reduce puffiness thanks to the Vitamin C and caffeic acid. While applying lukewarm chamomile tea bags directly on the eyelids will calm the skin and reduce inflammation. 12. As well as cucumbers, apply raw potato slices to your eyes! That’s right, applying slices of refrigerated potato to your eyes is another fantastic natural remedy to reduce undereye circles and puffiness. The enzymes and the astringent properties in the potatoes also help reduce inflammation as well as tighten the skin too. Genius! 13. Get enough shut eye Lack of sleep can affect our eyes, fact. Afterall who hasn’t woken up with saggy, puffy eyes of a morning when they haven’t had enough sleep? Sleep helps the body renew and repair itself and allows your eyes to rest, while letting that eye cream you’ve applied before bed work its magic! So, it’s time to make sleep a priority. I know easier said than done for some, but I also know myself that I need to practice what I preach, and if I wanted to, I could put down that book or turn off the tv or close my laptop an hour before I actually do each night! 14. Wear sunglasses religiously After all, you want to protect those sensitive peepers of yours as much as possible and we all know the sun is THE no. 1 cause of premature ageing!

Look 10 years younger with these top 10 makeup tips

by Jo Boyden on Jul 07 2022

Ah makeup! My saving grace! Not only can it create the illusion of flawless skin, totally transform our appearance, cover up imperfections and boost our confidence, it can also take years off our face! You just need to arm yourself with the right makeup products and follow these top tips and we’ll have you looking 10 years younger in next to no time! Always moisturise your skin before applying your base I mean it’s a given, no matter what your skin type you should always moisturise your face every morning anyway, but applying a moisturiser before your makeup will not only hydrate your skin but also smooth your skin’s surface for a more even foundation application, and no one wants their makeup to look cakey! Oh! and if you have combination to dry skin, it’ll be next to impossible to create that perfect canvas for your foundation without moisturising first! Choose the right foundation You really can disguise the ageing process and look years younger with makeup, but you have to choose your products carefully. For example face powder, when used correctly and frugally can be a fantastic makeup staple (I have been I’m in love with the ELES Mineral Powder Foundation for years!) however, no matter your skin type, too much face powder can actually age you! That’s right, it can highlight fine lines and wrinkles instead of helping to conceal them, so it’s best to use powder sparingly – on your t-zone or as the perfect tool for quick touch ups.Foundations that have sheer to light coverage and a luminous finish will be your best choice especially for older skin or those concerned about fine lines and wrinkles. Dewy liquid foundations tend to be better than matte, also make sure the foundation is formulated with hydrating ingredients.I am a huge advocate for both the ELES Mineral Sheer Tint and ELES Cosmetics best-selling Age Defying BB Cream 30. It primes, tints, nourishes, protects, blurs and evens out your skin tone for a truly, natural, flawless finish. And thanks to its skin-loving ingredients including Vitamin E, Goji berry, Squalane; its multi-mineral complex, and age defying peptides, over time it will help to promote cell health, strengthen elasticity, reduce the appearance of fine lines and restore that natural glow you once donned! What’s more, you’ll feel as though you aren’t even wearing makeup! Use a good under-eye concealer for an instant eye lift Concealer is another amazing staple in your beauty arsenal that can dramatically change your appearance. Used correctly, concealer can brighten a tired complexion, cover up any blemishes, conceal dark under-eye circles and have you looking bright-eyed in seconds! Therefore, to hide those dark circles and puffy tired eyes which can make us look and feel every bit of our age, ensure you are armed with a goood concealer! I’m currently obsessed with the ELES Dual Action Concealer. It honestly gives me an instant eye lift every morning! It’s packed with amazing anti-ageing and eye nurturing ingredients, and on application dark circles and puffiness literally diminish within seconds, oh and any blemishes I might have too! Just be sure to keep concealer from drawing attention to your wrinkles by applying it correctly and selecting the correct shade!Choose a shade that’s lighter than your natural skin tone as this will help brighten your under eye area. And for the most brightening effect, apply your concealer in a “V” or upside-down triangle shape beneath your eye. Swipe it directly under the eye, but bring it down to a point on your cheek beside your nostril and fill in the entire area. Blend well with a small makeup brush and then finish with a very light dusting of powder to set the concealer so it doesn’t crease. Apply a little bronzer We are all on a quest for that healthy youthful glow, especially in the winter months when it’s almost non-existent, but dusting copious amounts of bronzer all over our nose, chin, cheeks and forehead can play up fine lines and large pores as the powder sinks into them. The best (and the most flattering!) way is to apply your bronzer with a bronzer brush to the perimeter of your face in the shape of a number three. Start on your forehead near your temples and loop down to the tops of your cheekbones, then curve out and around again along your jaw. Illuminate your face with a highlighter Along with freshening up your complexion and giving it a gorgeous glow, highlighter can be used strategically to lift and contour your face, making it appear more youthful. Apply highlighter to the tops of your cheekbones, brow bones and Cupid’s bow. Try ELES Stick Illuminator. I personally can’t get enough of it! Always use a blush Just a few swipes of blush will not only add colour and depth to your cheeks but can make your entire complexion look healthier, and your skin more youthful. It adds an extra glow that bronzer and highlighter just can’t mimic. Just be sure to apply it correctly – use a blush brush and lift colour upwards towards your temple from the apple of your cheek. I’ve been using the ELES Baked Blush for years now and just love its pigmented colour, easy application and the healthy-looking finish it gives me. Keep eye makeup simple As we get older our collagen and elastin decreases and the skin around our delecate eye area tends to thin out and start to droop. Heavy or droopy lids can make eyes look tired so you want to keep eye makeup light but also create the illusion of depth in the lids. To do this brush a wash of light brown shadow into the creases of your eye lids and add a tough of light shimmer shadow to the inner corners of your eyes. Brighten eyes with a waterline eyeliner Investing in a waterline eyeliner will be a game changer for tired eyes. All you need to do is line your bottom waterline for an instantly wide-eyed effect. We promise you it’s worth the money as one swipe will truly create brighter, younger looking eyes. Always use mascara It’s no secret that beautiful eyelashes make you look 10 times prettier, and younger! Curl your eyelashes (With a proper curl, lashes will look longer, thicker and fuller) and always apply lashings of mascara, by doing so eyes will appear larger and more awake, something that is synonymous with youth! Fake full brows Just as the hair on our heads can thin with age, so do our eyebrows! The thing is your brows can completely change how your face looks, and fuller, well shaped brows will add immediate dimension and help to sculpt the face making you look younger and more awake!Actually, filling in your eyebrows from the top of the brow and elongating it gives eyes a more youthful look. Just be sure you don’t overfill the front part of your brow though! This area should have soft hair that graduates into more density. If you overfill this area you can make your eye brows look way too harsh.For longevity it’s best to build up your brows with a combo of brow pencil then set with a powder shadow one shade lighter than brows. Try ELES Precision Brow Pencil and ELES Brow Sculpt. Read more on how to create perfect brows.And for a bonus tip always add a pop of colour to your pout! As we age our lips get drier and thinner. By using a lipliner you can add definition to lips, then follow with a sweep of hydrating lip balm like the ELES Colour Balm as this can make your lips appear plumper and give them a youthful fullness we all desire!

Who wore it best at the Oscars? 4 red carpet looks you’ll want to try

by Jo Boyden on Apr 01 2022

Earlier this week we saw the return of the infamous Oscars! And boy did it go off with a bang! After two years away from the red carpet, the A-listers were eager to be back flaunting their stuff, while waiting in anticipation to find out who would be recognised as the 94th Academy Award winners! But Hollywood’s biggest night of the year isn’t just about film or show-stopping frocks, it’s about the hair and makeup we all want to master too!From elegant updo’s and lit-from-within skin, beautiful bold lips and shimmer eyeshadow, this year the stars did not disappoint! Read on as we breakdown our favourite four makeup looks, the looks we’re sure you’ll want to try, and with the right tools they are pretty simple to achieve too! Kirsten DunstPretty in pink, the A-lister opted for plenty of blush, coupled with subtle rouge lips and smouldering eyes. Get the lookTo create her gorgeous complexion, apply a lightweight foundation for fresh undetectable coverage, like ELES Cosmetics HD Luminous Foundation, followed by lots of blush applied to the apples of the cheeks. Nothing says romance like a flushed cheek that’s for sure!For the eyes take an eyeshadow trio like ELES’s Build your own shadow palette. Firstly, take your base (a soft brown shade is best) and apply a wash all over your eye lid. Next take a shimmer copper shade and blend softly above the crease of your eye lid, as well as beneath the lower lash line for a subtle smoky eye. Finally add your third shade, like ELES’s Diamond shadow, to your brow bone to add highlight. Once complete layer on coats of ELES Lash Fortify Mascara in Black to both the upper and lower lashes applying from the base to the tip in a slow sweeping motion.To complete the look, reach for a soft rouge lippie. We adore the ELES Velvet Satin lipstick in Middlesex Street. ZendayaThe 25-year-old turns every look into a masterpiece, but one that we can actually achieve! On the red carpet this year she went subtle with a soft updo, shimmery eyeshadow, glossy nude lips, bronzed cheeks and brushed eyebrows. Heavenly! Get the lookTo create her flawless skin, apply a soft matte foundation, (we love ELES Cosmetic’s best-selling Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation), followed by a powder bronzer to contour beneath your cheeks and jawline to “slim” the face. The ELES Mineral Sheer Bronzer in Rio De Janeiro is perfect for recreating this bronzed glow. Apply a little extra to your forehead to add that “sun-kissed” warmth and if you want to be a real showstopper, dab on a little stick illuminator above the apples of your cheeks and down the centre of your nose.For Zendaya’s shimmery standout eyes you need three stand-out eyeshades. Firstly apply ELES Contour Brown to eyelids and blend softly above the crease of your eye lid. Next apply a silvery white shimmer shade like ELES Mineral Shadow in Diamond and finish with ELES Mineral Shadow in Light Sunray beneath the lower lash line. Complete the eyes with lashings of mascara.For that subtle flush of colour on the lips, use a lip liner to gently fill in (we recommend the ELES Gel Lipliner in Rose Brown) and then add a touch of gloss like our ELES Pucker-Up Lipgloss in Love Bite for that hint of shine. Jessica ChastainThe best actress winner stunned us with her glowy, peach-toned look that perfectly complimented her golden Gucci gown. Get the lookWhile Chastain's complexion is naturally radiant, her red-carpet look begins with a flawless foundation like ELES Cosmetic’s best-selling Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation. Work a small amount into your fingertips to warm the product and press into the skin all over the face, keep patting and pressing until the product is evenly dispersed then lightly blend into the face with your fingers until you have an even coverage. Set with a light dusting of ELES Mineral Powder Foundation.Next apply blush to the apples of your cheeks and then take a highlighter to lighten up the face and add dimension without creating any harsh lines.For the eyes use a peachy, pastel palette. Firstly, take your base, like ELES’s mineral shadow in Sienna and apply a wash all over your eye lid, also apply to the bottom lash line for a subtle smoky eye effect. Next take a shimmer peachy shade like Warm glow and blend softly above the crease of your eye lid and finally add a shimmer white shade like Diamond to the inner corners of your eyes to really make them pop. Follow with several coats of mascara to the top lashes. Work from the base of the lashes wiggling the wand slowly up the lashes for extra volume. Try ELES Lash Fortify Mascara in Black.A pinky/nude lip is the perfect way to finish off the entire look, allowing the colour from the blush to pop while offsetting the sparkly eyes. Try ELES Moisture Crème Lipstick in Nutmeg. Lily JamesThe Cinderella actress was the belle of the ball rocking 90s glam makeup and beautifully beachy waved hair. Get the lookApply ELES Age-Defying BB Cream 30 to the face and spread and pat the product untilcompletely blended. Using the ELES Small Concealer Brush tap the ELES Dual Action Concealer beneath the eye area and on the eyelids, pat into the skin until seamlessly blended.Apply a light dusting of Baked Blush in Petunia to the upper cheeks. Line the upper and lower lashes with Superwear Gel Liner in Noir, then using a Short Shader Brush, smudge the liner out to soften the edges. Apply a plum eyeshadow shade like ELES’s Mineral Matte Blush in Roselle to eyelids and blend upwards and out to create Lily’s alluring eyes. Finish eyes by applying several coats of Lash Fortify Mascara to the top and bottom lashes. Complete look with ELES Velvet Satin Lipstick in Garden’s Lane on the lips.

Understand what eyeshadow colours are best for you and how to apply them like a pro!

by Jo Boyden on Mar 04 2022

Applying eyeshadow is an art form so, getting it perfect isn’t always easy, in fact many of us get it wrong or simply have no idea how to apply eyeshadow at all! The good news is you don’t have to be a beauty guru to master your eyeshadow look, with the right tools, a little practice, and the following key tips, you’ll be applying it like a pro in next to no time! Learn which eyeshadow shades are best for your eye colour If you want to use a coloured eyeshadow to enhance your eyes, the first thing you should consider is the colour of your eyes! Certain shades of eyeshadow look best on certain eye colours. For example, bronze and gold best highlight blue and light brown eyes, while violets pop with green eyes. Here’s a little more info to help you select your shades;Best for blue eyes: Copper, peach and orange-based eyeshadowsBest for brown eyes: Cobalt blue, navy, purple and indigo shadesBest for green eyes: Wine-tones, purples and berry huesAlso get familiar with our colour wheel. The most flattering shade tends to be the one that sits directly opposite your eye colour on the wheel! Select your 3 eyeshadow shades Once you’ve deciphered what the best shades will be for you, you’ll need to select your colours and when it comes to how to apply eyeshadow correctly, three shades are better than one! You’ll need a light shade (for a highlighter), a medium shade (the transition colour) and a dark shade (to contour.)An easy way to find three eyeshadows that look flattering when worn together is to invest in an eyeshadow palette. Palettes offer you the colours you need right in one convenient product. Try the ELES Build your own 3-well Shadow Palette. You simply select three eye shadow inserts from a huge array of options, creating the triple colour combo that’s perfect for you! And Beauty Collective insert them into your perfect palette. The shadows sweep over eyelids without creasing or fading, while reflecting light away from dark circles and fine lines. They can be applied dry for soft, low-key shadings, or wet for more vibrant effects. What’s more they come available in a range of matte and pearlized shades in single inserts so you can mix and match colours as you wish. All you need to do is blend!For the month of March, 2022, Beauty Collective are giving away a FREE Blending Brush with every Build Your Own Shadow Palette to make eyeshadow application that much easier.N.B If a palette of three feels limiting to you, you can also pick more shades from a selection of single eyeshadows compacts. Know your brushes! Flawless eyeshadow blending is ALL about the brushes! So make sure you familiarise yourself with the brushes you need to blend like a pro! A dense base shadow brush is great for solid application and applying pigment. A fluffier, blending brush is for softer application, blending and highlighting and a flat definer brush is used along upper and lower lash lines to create an easy, liner effect. Get started! Ready to get to work with your three eyeshadow colours? Follow the steps below to put on multiple eyeshadow shades for a stand-out look.STEP 1 – Take the lightest shade in your palette and apply it over you entire lid, up towards your brow bone using a base shadow brush.STEP 2 – Next using a tapered blending brush apply your medium shade into your crease (the curve above your eyelid) blending from the outer corners inwards.STEP 3 - Use the same brush to apply the dark shade to the outer corner of your eyelid. Extend it outwards and upwards to create a smoky effect, then take a larger, blending brush and blend it inwards slightly.N.B The medium shade should always be higher than the dark (contour) shade so be sure not to blend it too high! Also, make sure you apply each of the eyeshadow application steps on both eyes, instead of finishing one eye and then moving on to the other, to give yourself the best shot at getting them even and balanced. The finishing touches Once you’ve finished applying your eyeshadow colours, use your concealer with a small concealer brush to create really crisp edges. You can also apply concealer from the inner corner to the start of the brow as it’ll help to brighten up the eye look and shape.Then it’s onto eyeliner and mascara application! Make sure you have your tools at the ready for any touch ups! We all make mistakes so have the cotton buds a ready! They will allow you to clean up any spillages with precision.Voila! You’ve just applied your eyeshadow like a Beauty Collective pro!

Beauty Collective - party-ready makeup look

Create the perfect party-ready makeup look in 3 simple steps

by Jo Boyden on Dec 03 2021

It’s here! The festive party season has started so it’s time to get glammed up! We all know being party ready isn’t just about what you wear though, or your styled hair – it’s about mastering your makeup too. Whether you are time poor so looking for quick and easy makeup tips this party season, or simply after some help when it comes to party ready makeup, BC have your back! Read on for our 3-step guide on how to get the perfect party ready make up, while adding a little sparkle and glam to your look and life too! STEP 1: THE PREPFirstly, make sure you have thoroughly cleansed skin, apply your moisturiser as you normally would, let it soak in and then apply (drum roll) a makeup primer. Why? Because it is key when it comes to preventing your makeup from literally sliding off your face! Makeup primers are THE one product that has the power to literally make your makeup stay put all day long and night! And if you have oily skin, it’ll control the excess oil too!I’m a huge lover of ELES’s Retexturizing Face Primer. Not only does this soothing, lightweight serum feel like actual silk on your skin, it basically helps protect, condition, smooth and blur out skin imperfections too! Want to look like a filtered goodness, and have makeup last the distance, try this! If however, your skin tends to be on the oilier side I recommend opting for the ELES Pore Perfecting Face Primer. Not only does it keep makeup in place it also combats shine, absorbs excess oil and also reduces the appearance of pores to keep your foundation will look flawless! Genius!STEP 2: YOUR FOUNDATIONYou’ve applied your primer it’s now time for your base! With so many foundations to choose from, from liquid to powder, stick to tinted moisturiser knowing what will work best this silly season can get complicated, so if you need a little intel on what the right foundation is for you click here.If you're partying by day (love a long luncheon!) ELES Age Defying BB Cream 30 is one of my go-to’s. Loaded with Goji Berries, Minerals, Vitamins and Sun Protection this wonder base and ELES Cosmetics best-seller, is your skin care, base and sunscreen in one! Skin caring and skin perfecting in one simple step!! Simply apply to cleansed and primed skin for the silkiest and most undetectable coverage ever! STEP 3: THE PERFECT PALETTE WHICH HAS IT ALL!Now it’s time to master your makeup! But we want to keep it quick and simple and that we shall with ELES’s Limited Edition Party Palette in Golden Lights!Created to add some festive glam and sparkle to any complexion or skin tone, we are loving this sleek and convenient compact featuring a bronzer, blush and two seasonally appropriate gold and brown eye shades, which will take your party look to new heights. Oh, and it’s super handy to have in your handbag for those little touch-ups when you are out on the town too! What’s more, the products are all enriched with natural skin-caring goodness, they are richly pigmented delivering silky smooth, vivid, colour for hours of crease-resistant wear! And it comes with two free makeup brushes! YESSS. Now first for the bronzer! The objective is to make the skin look vibrant and healthy with shading in all the right places. Using your free kabuki brush press the bronzer beneath the cheekbones from the middle of the ear towards the centre of the face, do not apply any further in than level with the outer corner of the eye. Use the remaining bronzer on the brush to lightly dust the temples and beneath the jawline. Next blend the bronzer until it looks like a soft shadow with no harsh edges. Follow with the blush on the apples of the cheeks.Next, it’s onto the shadows! Create stand out eyes with these two shimmering shades in the palette, firstly take the gold and apply on the eyelids and lower lash line, then blend the edges. Then take the deep brown shade and apply to the outer corners of your eye lid carefully blending the edges.Finish by applying lashings of your favourite mascara to your lashes and a swipe of your favourite lippie to your lips too!Now you’ve mastered your party ready makeup, it’s time to head out and shine!

Beauty Collective - Red Carpert Golden Globes

Red carpet ready – A step by Step on how to achieve our 4 favourite Golden Globe looks

by Jo Boyden on Mar 10 2021

From bold coloured lips to glowy goddess-like skin, flawless winged eyes, to minimal makeup, this year’s nominees bought an abundance of glitz and glamour to the Golden Globes whether they were donning their looks from the luxury of their home, hotel suite or were actually ‘red carpet’ ready.Read on to find out our favourite four makeovers from the night and a simple step by step on how you can recreate each look at home with only a few key products. Julia GarnerWith deep cherry glossed lips and porcelain doll-like skin, Julia Garner seriously bought her A-game to this year’s Golden Globes.To achieve her flawless base simply opt for a long-lasting matte foundation. If you are usually a lover of liquid, yet plan on donning this look, I highly recommend the ELES Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation. It literally glides onto skin effortlessly yet sets to a soft matte powder finish that lasts all day. If powder is your go-to, then one of my favourites, and perfect for this look is the ELES Mineral Powder Foundation Compact. It creates buildable coverage from natural sheer to polished opaque.Complete your base with a very soft and subtle pink blush like the ELES Baked Blush in Posey.Next, it’s time to play up the eyes with focus on both eyebrows and lashes. Firstly, we recommend using the ELES Precision Brow Pencil, it creates ‘hairlike’ strokes for a more natural brow and the brush end of the pencil will come in handy if you’ve used too much product and need to soften the look. To create the illusion of Julia’s thicker brows (if yours tend to be on the thinner side like mine!), I also recommend using an eyebrow powder or shadow. While the pencil will help conceal any sparse areas, the powder will fill in, shape and thicken brows. Try ELES Brow Sculpt, it has one side powder, the other side colour coordinated tinted wax that will tame and set brows so they last day and night!Julia’s eyes are all in the lashes. Firstly though apply a wash of mineral matte eyeshadow in vanilla to your entire eyelid all the way to the inner corner using a base shadow brush for ease. The light shaded shadow will really help to open up your eyes. Next layer on coats of ELES Lush Mascara in Black to both the upper and lower lashes applying from the base to the tip in a slow sweeping motion. To create the illusion of Julia’s long alluring lashes allow mascara to semi-dry in between coats.To complete the look, firstly line your lips with a blood red lipliner which perfectly matches the lipstick to follow. The lip liner will give your lips structure and act as a primer to help bind the lipstick to the lips. Carefully line your lips just outside your natural lip line. Fill the rest of your lips in with the liner then reach for your beautiful bold blood-red lippie. We love the ELES Moisture Crème Lipstick in Cool Red. Follow with ELES Colour Balm in Classique for Julia’s subtle gloss coated finish. Andra DayWith plum ombre lips and a perfectly paired gold highlighter, Andra Day’s look is breathtakingly beautiful, yet easy to achieve! We promise.To create her glowier than glowy complexion, firstly, apply a dewy foundation. We love the ELES Mineral Sheer Tint. Seal it with the ELES Baked Finishing Powder in Diffused Light. It’s like a warm filter that evens out dark shadows and discolouration, leaving skin looking poreless and perfect!Next take a bronzer (try the ELES Baked Bronzer in Sunbeam, a beautiful fine powder bronzer with a subtle pearlized finish) and a tapered detail brush, and define your jawline by applying it at a downward angle on either side of your chin. Then to sculpt the cheeks apply bronzer using sweeping brush strokes under the entire length of the cheekbones and blend, blend, blend!Now add instant radiance and colour to your face using the ELES Baked Blush in Rose Gold. Then enhance your features like never before with the ELES stick Illuminator. Apply it to the centre strip of your nose starting from the top to the tip of your nose, right above the perimeter of the jawline (this is the trick to making your face look slimmer), under the arches of your brows, and to the highest point of your cheeks for that healthy glow.For Andra’s shimmery standout eyes, use the ELES The Naturals Collection Eyeshadow Trio in Delicates, a versatile collection of 3 beautiful earth tone eye shades within one convenient palette.Firstly apply the lightest shade to your entire eye lid, all the way to the inner corner using a base shadow brush for ease. Next using a tapered blending brush apply the medium shade into your crease (the curve above your eyelid) blending from the outer corner’s inwards. Finally use the same brush to apply the darkest shade to the outer corner of your eyelid, then extend it outwards and upwards and blend it inwards slightly. Finish with lashings of ELES Lash Fortify Mascara in Black.To complete the look, line your lips with ELES Gel Lip Liner in Plum and carefully blend filling in lips, then apply your lipstick - we love ELES Moisture Crème Lipstick in Aubergine, followed by swipe of ELES Lip Stain in Pin Up Girl. Amanda SeyfriedWith bold brows, bronzed cheeks and soft, smoky eyes, this year’s Golden Globes saw A-lister Amanda Seyfried glow like a goddess.To create her look firstly apply a natural lightweight foundation. We love the ELES HD Foundation. Its lightweight formulation melts onto skin and provides undetectable coverage with a subtle radiant finish. Follow with a powder bronzer to contour beneath your cheeks and jawline to slim the face and create the illusion of perfectly sculpted cheekbones. Try ELES Anti-Oxidant Bronzer to achieve Amanda’s perfectly matte bronzed complexion that will last all day.Next focus on the eyes. To achieve this soft, smoky eye look, you’ll need three eyeshadow shades – a light, medium and darker. Start by applying the lightest shade (a nude) over your entire lid, all the way to the inner corner using a base shadow brush. You really need this light shadow to perfect the look and open up the eyes to make colour ‘pop’. Next use a tapered blending brush to apply your medium shade into your crease (the curve above your eyelid) blending from the outer corner’s inwards. Now use the same brush to apply the darkest shade to the outer corner of your eyelid. Extend it outwards and upwards to create a smoky effect, then blend it inwards slightly. To nail Amanda’s eyes, we recommend using ELES’s The Naturals Collection Eyeshadow Trio in Cool Nakeds.To complete the look, instead of using eyeliner, use the darkest shade of your shadow. Simply use a flat definer brush and press the dark shadow lightly along the edges of your upper eyelid where your eyelashes begin and along the lower lash line. Then finish with lashings of mascara.For that subtle flush of colour on the lips, use a lip liner to gently fill in (we recommend the ELES Gel Lipliner in Naked) and then add a touch of gloss like the ELES Pucker-Up lipgloss in Love Bite for that subtle hint of shine. If you prefer lipsticks, try the ELES NEW Velvet Satin Lipstick in Lauderdale Place. Elle FanningFlawless winged liner, rosy rouge cheeks and nude lips came together to create a stunning ethereal look for Elle.To recreate ELLE’s makeup, firstly apply a matte powder as your base. Try ELES Mineral Powder Foundation and gently blend with a Beauty Blender for flawless coverage. Next, add a swipe of blush to the apples of the cheeks before focusing on the eyes.Many steer clear of the winged eye look because they fear it is too tricky, but we promise you it’s far from it and once you’ve mastered it you’ll never look back. First things first, the make the initial line. Using ELES Felt Tip liner in Black draw a short, thin line from the outer corner of your eye extending the natural curve of your lower lash line to your desired length. If you have trouble getting a smooth line freehand, try making a series of small dots and then join them together or simply use a piece of tape or stencil as a guide. Draw a line across the upper eyelid, following the natural curve of your upper lash line from the inner corner of your eye to the outer corner of your eye and continuing to parallel the first line you made. Focus on creating a smooth line. Now that you have your outline fill in the gaps with more eyeliner. Apply a little lush mascara to both upper and lower lash lines.Finally pencil in brows with ELES Precision Brow Pencil and colour lips with ELES Matte Lipstick in Bare.

10 beauty hacks from the BC Pros that you’ll absolutely love

by Jo Boyden on Feb 18 2021

Who doesn’t love a beauty hack? A quick tip or trick to help you look your best in next to no time (especially great for all us mums on the go or those who always find themselves a little time poor.) Well the team at BC have compiled their forever favourites, the hacks they use daily and we thought we’d share them with you! Happy reading…Keep lip colour in place all dayWe all love a long wearing lippie but using them doesn’t mean it won’t smudge and seep out of the lines of your lips a little. If you aren’t armed with a lip primer to keep it in place all day, simply apply your lipstick then try putting some blotting paper (a tissue will do) over your lips and dabbing on some translucent powder. This should keep it in place through coffee, cake, and kisses!This might be an oldie and one you’ve heard many a time before but are you doing it daily?Perfectly lined lips every timeIsn’t it annoying when you’ve worn down a new lipliner and no matter how much your sharpen it you can never quite get that perfect sharp tip as you had the first time you used it. Well, all is not lost! Instead of using it right out of your makeup bag simply pop it in the fridge overnight or even for a matter of minutes can help. When it comes time to apply, your lip liner should be hard enough to create perfectly lined lips.Conceal correctly for an instant face liftThe most natural and most effective way to conceal under-eye bags and dark circles is to draw a triangle in concealer under the eyes with the baseline of the triangle directly under your eye and the point toward your cheek. This shape not only conceals dark circles but also gives you an instant facelift! Go on give it a try!Plump up your lashes with translucent powderNot keen on the fake eyelash look but want your lashes to appear fuller, and flirtier? Sure! Simply take a translucent foundation powder and using a makeup brush dust it over your eyelashes between the first and second coats of mascara. The powder has grip so will stick to your coated lashes helping plump them up for that thicker, fuller, voluminous look.N.B. When applying your mascara be sure to press bristles against your upper and lower lash lines and then wiggle the wand as you go from root to tip. This will make sure you’ve fully coated each and every lash as well as adding length!Forgo the black eye lineDespite its popularity lining eyes with black liner can make eyes appear so much smaller than they are! Don’t apply black liner to your lower lash line and waterline, instead line the top part of your eye with black eye liner, the bottom with brown and be sure to line your waterline with a white or nude waterline liner to really open up your eyes. Make your eyeshadow really popFor really stand-out eyes, instead of just applying a white or nude liner to your waterline, try applying a layer to your eyelids too. Haven’t got a white liner? That’s on try a dab of concealer instead. This will hold eye shadow in place as well as creating a neutral base for shadow making your eyeshadow shades look beautifully bright.Nail a simply smokey eyeWho doesn’t love a smokey eye look for a special occasion? But the time required, the several different shades of eyeshadow and a whole lot of blending equals big effort, and not everyone has time for that! But all is not lost, there is a fast and easy alternative and it can be just as effective – promise. Simply use an eye pencil to draw a slanted hashtag above the outer corners of your eyes and blend with the smudger end of your pencil.Say goodbye to smudged eyesNo one likes to look in the mirror and see a line of black smeared under their eyes. Thank you mascara (eye roll) to clean up both eyeshadow fall out and smudged mascara use a sponge (I recommend the good old beautyblender) and makeup primer as opposed to makeup remover, this picks up the shadow and leaves the concealer so no need to reapply!Get an instant eye liftLine below and above your eyebrows with highlighter or white eye liner and smudge It to really define brows. You’ll look like you’ve had an instant eye lift!Quick drying nailsIn a rush but applied nail polish and now need nails to dry faster? No problem! Simply immerse your fingers in a bowl of iced or cold water for one to three minutes to cut their drying time in half!

Looking tired? 8 beauty tricks to fake a good night’s sleep

by Jo Boyden on Feb 10 2021

Holidays are over, schools are back and the daily juggle of work, kids, well life, in general has you once again looking like you haven’t slept for days. Fear not, while 9 hours of blissful slumber might be something of yesteryear you can fake a seriously good night's sleep if you are armed with a few key products! So read on to learn about our top beauty tips that’ll have you looking fabulously fresh in next to no time and with minimal effort….we promise! Breath life back into tired eyes First things first, after cleansing your skin, applying a soothing and cooling eye gel immediately to your undereye area is a must. Just look for products with key ingredients such as Green coffee, Vitamin C and Ginko Biloba, as they will help shrink capillaries and stimulate lymphatic drainage.Pevonia’s C Evolutive Eye Gel is a personal favourite of mine when it comes to tired, puffy eyes. Formulated with anti-ageing dynamo Vitamin C and skin saviours hyaluronic acid and Ginko biloba it’ll have your peepers decongested and depuffed in one swift application! Invest in a gemstone roller From rejuvenating jade to calm and soothing rose quartz, detoxifying Obsidian to purifying amethyst, we highly recommend introducing one of these rollers into your morning ritual. As well as their many medicinal benefits, they have the ability to dramatically reduce puffiness by removing excess fluid around the eyes towards your lymph nodes where it filters out toxins! So clever! To find out more click here. Use a collagen-boosting serum Lack of sleep has the ability to cause your body to produce the stress hormone cortisol which in turn breaks down collagen and leads to premature ageing (great!) so make sure you start your morning skincare routine armed with a collagen-boosting serum AND moisturiser to nourish and restore stressed and dehydrated skin.Pevonia’s best-selling Age Correction Intensifier Collagen and MyOxy Caviar and Marine Collagen Cream are both a must. Not only are they loved by so many around the world, but they have also been a staple of mine for years and I’d highly recommend the duo to everyone. Used in unison they effectively nourish and oxygenate skin, repair cells, and diminish fine lines and wrinkles. You can thank me later. Be armed with a good concealer With exhaustion comes black undereye circles and red bloodshot eyes so you need to reduce the darkness and brighten the area at the same time. The best way to do this is arm yourself with a really good concealer specifically for the delicate eye area. Simply dot the concealer using your pinky finger (the warmth of your fingers will help the concealer to melt into your skin creating a smooth, natural application). My go-to concealer is the ELES Dual Action Concealer. Its an anti-ageing wonder rich in Vitamins E & C, caffeine, collagen, hyaluronic acid and Tetrapeptide 5 which works to depuff, smooth, brighten and conceal the eyes, neutralizing dark circles. Its moisturising formula also provides continuous hydration as well as a natural longwearing finish meaning it lasts for hours without seeping into fine lines and wrinkles! Bonus! Line the eyes with nude You do not want to exacerbate the look of blood shot eyes, so steer clear of lining eyes with dark eyeliners especially on the bottom lash line. Instead transform tired eyes by applying a white or nude liner to the bottom lash line AKA your waterline. Here at BC, we love the ELES Waterline liner. Using a white or nude eyeliner extends the whites of your eyes making them look bigger and in turn more awake. Don’t forget your eyeshadow You’ve lined your eyes with a good waterliner pencil but another true hero to creating wide-awake eyes is eyeshadow! A nude shadow palette with just a few shades will be your new best friend. Check out the new ELES Naturals Collection Eyeshadow Trios, with a choice of four palettes in gorgeous neutral shades there is an option to suit everyone.Start by applying the lightest shade (the white or nude) from your chosen palette over your entire lid all the way to the inner corner using a base shadow brush. You really need this light shadow as it’ll help open up your eyes and really make them ‘pop’. Next, use a tapered blending brush to apply the medium shade into your crease (the curve above your eyelid) blending from the outer corners inwards. Using the same brush, now apply the darkest shade to the outer corner of your eyelid. Applying this darker shadow slightly beyond your crease is the key to adding real dimension to your eyes. Bronze and blush for a healthy glow. We all know lack of sleep can have us looking a little on the pasty side even if we are donning a bit of a tan! To instantly enhance said pasty skin apply a good bronzer for that much-needed healthy look, as well as a little rouge blush on the apples of your cheeks. We love the ELES Baked Bronzer and Blushes. These super-fine powders are baked to a lightweight, silky and subtle pearl finish that imparts a brilliantly radiant glow. Add a little colour to your lips We might not all be a fan of the red lip all year round, but a little rouge lip colour to perk up pale lips will go a long way in transforming a tired, sallow complexion. If lipstick isn’t your thing, opt for a little gloss instead. I apply my ELES Colour Balm in Siren every single day. It combines the payoff of a sheer lipstick with the superior shine of a gloss. You won’t be disappointed! So go forth and try these top tips and enjoy never being told you look tired again!

Mastering eyeshadow application. Why and how you should wear it

by Jo Boyden on Dec 21 2020

Ever been seduced into buying a new eyeshadow palette of tantalising shades only to discover the majority of them are unwearable? Or you simply have no idea where to start when it comes to applying them?Let’s face it, applying eyeshadow correctly, I’m talking multiply layers of varying shades to create stand out eyes, is an art form! So it’s no surprise that many of us either get it wrong or simply shy away from shadow! But wearing eyeshadow correctly can have a big impact on the way we look...and for the better! It has the power to enhance, define and complement your eyes in all but a few simple sweeps, you just need to know how!So read on to discover our top tips and become the master of your own eyeshadow destiny in next to no time. You won’t be disappointed with the results, trust me! Go neutral If you’re starting out on your eyeshadow journey its best to keep things simple. By using just a few neutral shades you can contour your eyes and add depth and dimension in a soft and subtle way. We are in love with the new ELES Naturals Collection Eyeshadow Trios. A choice of not one, but four palettes in a combination of three beautiful earth tones to suit everyone! The soft and subtle powder shadows apply smoothly and effortlessly and since they are pigment packed, every shade delivers rich, opaque colour for hours of crease-resistant wear! Use the right brushes! Know those little foam wands or brushes that come in some eyeshadow compacts? Ditch them! They are awful for applying product with precision!Flawless eyeshadow application is ALL in the brushes! So investing in a good eyeshadow brush (or three!) is paramount as it’ll help laydown powder shadows, setting them in place for the day. Opt for a dense base shadow brush to impart colour on the lid first, a blending brush for blending and highlighting and a flat definer brush to line and define your eyes! Don’t worry we are about to tell you how to use them! Apply shadows in the correct order (follow our diagram) Have your palette at the ready but unsure which shade should go where? This handy diagram should become your go to; Lightest ‘highlighting’ colour Medium shadow colour Darkest ‘smokey’ colour Start by applying the lightest shade (a white or nude) from your palette over your entire lid, all the way to the inner corner, using a base shadow brush. You really need this light shadow to perfect your look as it’ll help open up your eyes and make your colour ‘pop’. Just be sure to use your brush in a dabbing not dragging motion though as this is the key to applying ‘streak-less’ shadow!Next use a tapered blending brush to apply a medium shade into your crease (the curve above your eyelid) blending from the outer corners inwards.Use the same brush to apply the dark shade to the outer corner of your eyelid. Extend it outwards and upwards to create a smoky effect so to speak, then blend it inwards slightly. Applying this darker shadow slightly beyond your crease is the key to adding real dimension to your eyes.Additional tip: If you want to take your look from day to night up the anti! Don’t let the neutral shades fool you. By dampening your brush you can add intensity, just be sure to apply your foundation after your eyes are finished so any eyeshadow fallout can be easily dusted off. Complete your look Eyeliner, when applied correctly can make your lashes look thicker and your eyes wider. So to complete your look, instead of using an eyeliner, you can use the darkest shade of your shadows to create an impactful, well defined eye. Simple use a flat definer brush and press the dark shadow along the edges of your upper eyelid where your eyelashes begin and along the lower lash line. The finish with lashings of mascara. Yes it’s that simple! And with practice comes perfection.

FORCED STAYCATION - IT'S TIME TO “KONMARI” YOUR MAKEUP

by Jo Boyden on Apr 17 2020

When was the last time you sorted through your makeup? I mean organised, dusted and decluttered it? Whether it be the selection of products currently sitting on your bathroom vanity or the hoards you’ve accumulated over the years that no longer sees the light of day, by ‘tidying’ your makeup you will also ‘tidy your mindset’, according to globally renowned ‘organising consultant’ (aka ‘tidying expert’) and bestselling author, Marie Kondo.Back in her late teens Marie Kondo created the ‘KonMari’ method, a philosophy which suggests we should all “keep things that speak to the heart and discard items that no longer spark joy.” And now this method has been adopted by people all around the world, transforming their cluttered homes into spaces of serenity and inspiration! Sold? Read on…Having worked in the cosmetics industry for many years, I have been blessed to not only trial but be gifted with countless products and if I hadn’t have adopted Marie Kondo’s KonMari method myself, I’d have been signed up for the TV show “Hoarders” by now!So if you are one for acquiring a mountain of makeup products, many of which you no longer use but can’t bring yourself to throw them away, now is the perfect time for change! Here are some decluttering Marie Kondo mantras to live your new life by; Commit to sorting ALL your makeup This isn’t a onetime thing but a process that will allow you to enjoy your makeup routine in a whole new way so you need to be committed to tackling the entire task at hand in one go, no matter how tedious a job it is! Unless you apply yourself from start to finish in one fell swoop, you’ll just end up shifting your makeup from one spot to another, accomplishing nothing. I promise once you’ve decluttered all your makeup hoards and completed the organising process you will be motivated to keep it that way! Create a mountain Now you are committed you still need to ensure you don’t just tidy one drawer or bag of makeup at a time if you do it that way you’ll lose both momentum and motivation! Instead, grab every single item of makeup whether on display or hidden in the deep depths of your cupboard and put into one large pile. This way you can really see what you have been clutching onto for all those months, years even! Sort by category It’s time to dive right into the mountain of makeup and organise by category (I found this part rather therapeutic!) The KonMari ‘tidy your home’ method has people starting with the clothing category and then sorting into subcategories such as shirts, skirts etc…this exact same method can be applied to organising your makeup. So put your many lippies into one pile, your mascaras into another and so on… Out with the old, in with the new Once you have categorised your masses of makeup it’s time to discard the products that are old, expired or even those that are unused, or “that no longer give you joy” as Marie Kondo states.So many of us (I really was a sucker for this) tend to cling onto so many material things ‘just in case’ we might need them again. It’s important to be realistic and ask yourself the question “when did I last use this?” if you can’t remember it’s time to toss it!Products such as foundation and concealer will typically last a few years (although once opened beware of bacteria build-up) but products like mascara have a much lesser shelf life so if you haven’t used it for a few months it’s likely time to replace it!By cutting down your collection you will create room for inevitable growth, after all who doesn’t want to get their hands on that new product launch! Just remember though some makeup, while it looks fabulous in the palette, might not look so great on your complexion. Have a little fun, do a little experimenting and choose to keep only the products while make you feel and look your best. Decipher which products bring you joy Now that you’ve eliminated the old and unusable, take those remaining red lipsticks, that shadow palette, your powder blush, in your hand and ask yourself if it sparks joy! If the answer is not really then simply say a Marie Kondo “thank you for your service” mantra and add it to the ‘see you later’ pile. This exercise not only cleans out your beauty bag, drawer or cupboard, it also instills decision-making skills that’ll transfer into other areas of your life. But remember by ‘sparking joy’ we mean how it makes you feel when you wear it, not that when you last wore your sparkly lip gloss at the 2018 Christmas party you had a fun night! Don’t forget your tools! Aside from your makeup products, it’s important to sort through your tools too!Your makeup tools are meant to be washed. Besides bacteria, both brushes and sponges also accumulate dead skin cells and oil which can clog your pores leading to skin irritation and pesky pimples! Also if you apply your makeup with a dirty bush the end result can be a streaky and patchy complexion! Clean brushes definitely make for a smoother makeup application! Once you have completed your KonMari ritual, the end result will be a clean, well-organised, easily accessible collection and a new improved you!

Makeup looks from the Oscars that you’ll want to recreate this Valentine’s Day!

by Jo Boyden on Feb 13 2020

Hollywood's biggest event of the year – The Oscars – calls for bold and beautiful makeup year after year and boy did this year not disappoint! From smouldering eyes to statement red lips, the Oscars is a time to pull out all the stops….and so is Valentine’s Day we say!Armed with the right products, you too can recreate this year’s looks straight from the red carpet, looks that everyone will fall in love with regardless of your plans for this coming Friday night! So read on and get experimenting! We have kept it simple and just gone with our favourite two makeovers, as adorned by the stunning Scarlett Johansson and Lucy Boynton. Bronzed glowThis year’s Oscars saw Scarlett Johansson master the “I just got back from a tropical holiday” glow.Her shimmer shadow, bronzer and lipstick combination is simply the perfect Valentine’s Day look whether you are headed out for a fancy dinner or for drinks with friends.To create her glowier-than-glowy complexion, apply a dewy foundation, (we love the ELES Mineral Sheer Tint), followed by a powder bronzer to contour beneath your cheeks and jawline to “slim” the face. The ELES Baked Bronzer in Sunbeam is perfect for recreating this bronzed glow. Apply a little extra to your forehead to add that “sun-kissed” warmth and if you want to be a real show stopper, dab on a little stick illuminator above the apples of your cheeks and down the centre of your nose.For Scarlett’s shimmery standout eyes apply ELES Mineral Shadow in Bronzite and then blend softly above the crease of your eye lid, as well as beneath the lower lash line for a bronzed smoky eye. To make eyes pop don’t be afraid to use the ELES Waterliner pencil in both the inner corners of your eyes as well as on your waterline. Complete the eyes with lashings of ELES Lush Mascara.For that subtle flush of colour on the lips, use a lip liner to gently fill in (we recommend the ELES Long Wear Lipliner in Nude) and then add a touch of gloss like our ELES Pucker-Up Lipgloss in Love Bite for that hint of shine. If you have a preference for lipsticks instead, try the ELES Moisture Crème Lipstick in Parfait. Play up your lashesLucy Boynton always likes to make a statement at the Oscars and this year she did so by dramatizing her eyes with Twiggy-inspired ultra-long lashes! #goals. Coupled with standout red lips, her look was equal parts fun and flirty!To achieve her flawless base go for a long-lasting matte foundation which is great for recreating a natural look while still providing ample coverage. If you are a lover of liquid we recommend our best-selling ELES Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation – it glides effortlessly yet sets to a soft powder finish. But if powder is your go-to, we highly recommend the ELES Mineral Powder Foundation compact. Complete your base with a soft pink blush like the ELES Baked Blush in Posey - after all, nothing says romance like a flushed cheek.Next it’s time to dramatize the eyes but emphasizing both the eyebrows and lower lashes. Firstly we recommend you use the ELES Brow Blender in Dark Taupe. With the spool end brush the brows upwards, then using short soft strokes apply the pencil.For the eyes, first apply a peachy matte eyeshadow, then layer on coats of ELES Lash Fortify Mascara in Black to both the upper and lower lashes applying from the base to the tip in a slow sweeping motion. To create the appearance of Lucy’s ultra-long and thick lashes allow mascara to semi-dry in between coats.To complete the look reach for a bold, matte, blood-red lippie. We are in love with the ELES Matte Lipstick in Spicy.Valentine’s Day we’re ready for you!

by Jo Boyden on Dec 06 2019

Whether you are a ‘minimal makeup look’ kind of girl, or bright and bold is your thing, the makeup trends this summer have something for all. So read on, take inspiration where you wish, as we count down our favourite four seasonal trends. Less is moreThis summer season it appears we are finally embracing the fact that wearing lots of makeup in humid, hot weather is not such a great look! And no it doesn’t mean you have to reveal a bare complexion it merely means keep it simple. Instead of applying the denser matte foundation you might opt for in the cooler months, reach for lightweight formulas, like a BB that’ll keep skin looking fresh and flawless, or a tinted moisturiser with SPF for natural, dewy skin. Couple with a sweep of bronzer (none of this heavy contouring malarkey) for the perfect subtle glow.We (and so many of our customers) can’t get enough of the ELES Age-Defying BB Cream. Multi-faceted and benefit-packed, this innovative treatment cream primes, tints, nourishes, evens out skin tone, has an SPF of 30 and is oh so light and luxurious on the skin. Bright Coral lipsAnd the brighter the better!How pleased I am to see this trend taking centre stage once again! This time however the focus is on crème formulas, seeing matte shades playing second fiddle. Go bold and bright by adding lip liner to the mix.We highly recommend ELES Moisture Crème Lipstick in Sorbet Natural for stand out luscious lips. Golden eyesStay subtle or go dramatic this summer with glamourous golden eyes. Pair heavy metallic lids in shades of gold and bronze from brow to lash line with bronze eyeliner and lashings of mascara.We have a few shades to choose from so why not opt for the ELES Build your own shadow palette and select three eye shadow inserts to create the triple colour golden combo that's perfect.Hint: Give Gold Minx, Bronzite and Yellow Diamond a whirl. Fun Liner looksA subtle, easy and fun way to try new and creative makeup looks is by changing up your eyeliner and one trend that appears to be taking centre stage this summer is focusing on fun coloured liners. From small flicks to all-out cat’s eyes, try switching shades of black and browns to more stand out blues and greens.To adopt this trend we recommend trying ELES Felt Tip Liner in Sapphire Sky and Emerald Isle.

The French beauty rules worth following

by Jo Boyden on May 07 2019

What is it about French women? And why do so many of us covet that “casual cool” look that seems to be all about mussed-up hair and very little makeup?When well known Paris-based editorial makeup artist Violette was asked this she summed it up beautifully “In each country, I think there is an idea of what beauty is, but for the French, it’s very particular: What we want is to be ourselves - not a better version of ourselves. We feel like it’s better to get used to something than to try to change it. So we think: What style can I have with this face, and with this hair? That mentality is 100 percent French.” Still, she admits, there are a few local secrets for how to look perfectly imperfect, without ever trying too hard.A HEALTHY ADVANTAGEFrench women do all they can to have amazing skin, and an amazing body, and amazing hair, so they don't have to do too much else! Their skin care routines are long and involved, a double cleanse followed by a toning lotion, serums, masks, and nourishing creams are just the beginning, they also massage their skin regularly to stimulate the cell rejuvenation and give it a natural glow. We love the Phytomer Rosee Soin for this, it’s a delicate rose extract oil that leaves the skin luminous and soft.KEEP THE BASE LIGHTWith beautiful skin, this is of course much easier to do! Rarely will you see a French woman wearing a foundation all over her face, and powder is used so sparingly or not at all! To even out the skin she will pinpoint conceal (using a very small brush) any imperfections and only apply foundation to areas that need balancing such as a red chin. She will use concealer beneath the eyes and then blend all of this carefully with a sponge to ensure a “second skin” result. A great tip from French Makeup Artist Violetta, “do not apply foundation on the nose, it creates an optical illusion that you are wearing no foundation at all”. So if you suffer redness in the nostril creases, apply a long-wear concealer there and not on the bridge of the nose. See our foundations to find your best choice.IT'S ALL ABOUT MODERATIONFrench women understand the adage “you are what you eat” and in spite of their multi-step facial routines they know that if they eat organic as much as possible, and avoid sugar their skin will benefit. They are far less concerned about fat and generally prefer to eat smaller portions of delicious food rather than huge portions of low-fat alternatives.EXERCISE SHOULD BE FUNA decade ago French women turned their pert noses up at any regimented exercise, now the workout trend is picking up a little, however, you’ll never see them get caught up in a hard-core programme. The general consensus is, if it’s not fun we’d rather stick pins up our nails than put our body through torture.NO MORE HAIR DRYERSFrench women are all about amazing texture in their hair and more often than not go for a kind of “lived-in” look. They like to shampoo, condition and finger dry their locks with the certain knowledge that tomorrow, after a night on the pillow, it will look even better.GET A GREAT CUTThey do like hair to be very healthy and shiny, so when they wear it messy, it doesn’t look dry and damaged and resemble fairy floss. They are much more about getting a great (often expensive) haircut and treating the hair at night with oils, serums, and masks than spending a fortune on styling products!A CLASSIC RED LIPIt’s almost as cliché as the beret but French women are all about red lips and they know how to wear it. From true reds to crimsons to scarlets, the red lip is totally French. Red lipstick is a fashion accessory so very little other makeup is worn with it. Hair should be messy, skin perfect, throw on a pair of jeans and heels then all you’ll need is red lippie, because the lipstick makes the statement! Our favourite is ELES Moisture Crème Lipstick in True Red, it seems to suit everyone!HIGHLIGHT, DON'T CONTOUR!Most French women have an inherent dislike of brownish shading powders or creams. For French women, contouring is too bold and it changes the shape of the face. Instead, they prefer highlighter to catch the light on the cheeks, the tip of the nose and the cupids bow to make the skin look fresh and dewy.MAKE YOUR SMOKEY EYE A BIT MESSY!The other makeup that is really French is the smoky eye. But unlike the American version which is an artful gradiation of dark to light, the French version is a messy smoky eye that looks a bit “grungy”. Too perfect and too sparkly is the opposite of chic, as far as French women are concerned. They often use just one product, put it all over, and blend it with the finger. Then groom the brows, put on a bit of blush and concealer, and go. Our favourite “French girl” eye product is the ELES Superwear Gel Liner, it stays soft enough to blend out and then sets and stays all day. Just scribble it across the entire lid, “like a kid would,” and smear with an eyeshadow brush.So despite a religious approach to beauty through health and all the effort it takes to look effortless, the French woman doesn’t seem as hard on herself as some of us can be. In France, they call it Je Ne Sais Quoi (which literally translates as ‘whatever!’) – The effortless chic, confidence and assurance allows them to be their best self.Oh and…less is definitely so much more, et voilà!

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