Makeup artist Leticia Bishop answers the most googled beauty questions so you can always look on point when stepping out
We’ve already shared the best cheap beauty buys and our fave sunscreen to survive Hong Kong heat, but we know you want more beauty info. So we sat down with MUA Leticia Bishop to get the most googled beauty questions answered by a pro. It’s time to get your game face on!
Google has spoken! And I shall do my best to shed a little light on these common makeup queries…
1. How to apply mascara
Mascara is for many that desert island makeup item; transforming the eyes, giving them definition and lift. First, when pulling the mascara wand from the tube, notice if there is too much product on the brush–often it’s at the end. Wipe this off on the top of the tube. Now you’re ready to start. With the brush at the root of the lashes, wiggle the brush side to side depositing product onto the lash hairs and then glide up and outwards. Do that a few times and move onto the second eye. Take a moment, and look to see if you want another layer. If you do, start again on the first eye then move onto the second with the same process.
2. How to fix cakey makeup
We’ve all been there. You tried a new product that morning, and by 5 pm things are not looking too fab.
First thing I would grab is a face mist like Heritage Store Rosewater & Glycerin Mist or M.A.C Fix+, as mists help refresh things and bring back skin texture from an overly powdered or cakey makeup. Additionally, if you’re setting your makeup with a tinted powder, it’s worth trying a translucent loose powder instead; I find it reduces the cake factor.
3. What concealer to use
I’m presuming this is asked regarding under-eye concealer. For under the eye, ALWAYS go with the more emollient type in the tubes. The skin under your eyes is dry and won’t work with drier kinds of concealers. My favourite (and many other makeup artists swear by it too) is the NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer.
4. How to take off makeup without makeup wipes
This makes me. I’m so happy people are asking about this! In my opinion, no one should be using wipes to remove makeup anymore – they are bad for your skin and bad for the planet. There are a plethora of cleaner options and textures to choose from. I like to start with an oil or balm cleanser, as they are the best at breaking down your makeup, then follow that with a gel-type to cleanse the skin. Wipe it all off with a washable towel, and you’re good to go.
5. How to do a cat eye
Oh, the elusive cat-eye! Everyone wishes to master it, and truthfully not everyone’s eye shape suites it. However, if you are going to try it, look straight ahead in the mirror and envision your lower lash line extending up and out towards your hairline – this is the guide you should follow.
6. How to apply liquid foundation
Liquid is the most common foundation type, and with an abundance of application tools to choose from, it depends on the level of coverage you want, as well as personal preference. Clean hands are perfectly fine, a beauty sponge can create a seamless look quickly, and a stippling brush is often my choice at work. But in general, my top tip is bounce and tap the product onto the skin for a flawless application.
7. How to apply blush
I often consider this one so simple, but it’s a popular question, and product placement is super important. Never apply blush too low on the face as this will draw the look down, not something any of us desire.
To achieve a bright, lifted look, apply in an upward sweep towards the temples, starting with less product and building it up. I wrote a full guide a few weeks ago on my blog here, with product recommendations and texture options as well as application tips.
8. How to apply individual lashes
This is my favourite way to do lashes – transforming the eye while looking as natural as you want it to be. The lashes come in different lengths, but mostly I will use medium and maybe a few long ones (just on the outer corner) to create an alluring flick effect.
To apply, start with a little bit of glue on the back of your hand or some plastic, let it get tacky, then pick up the lashes one by one from the packet with tweezers. Dab in the glue, and–looking into a mirror with your chin up, drop them onto your natural lashes, as close to the roots as possible. Wiggle and position them with tweezers or fingers.
9. How to clean makeup brushes
YES, you need to be doing this weekly! My method is super straightforward… which means you’re more likely to do it, right?!
First, lay out a paper towel to put the brushes on once they’re clean. I do mine at the kitchen sink and use dish soap. I wet each brush then add a little soap to each, swirl around on my palm and rinse in running water, then lay out to dry on the paper towel.
I have had my brushes for a long time and wash them after each makeup artist job. Dish soap has been serving me just fine for years!
10. How to make rice water
This is a new trend I have yet to delve into myself, and maybe it sounds a tad too DIY, but there is a real benefit in rice water.
Dr Dray, an extremely knowledgeable dermatologist, has two videos explaining how it could have some benefits for your hair, scalp and skin. Essentially, take ½ cup of uncooked rice, rinse it thoroughly and place in a bowl with 2–3 cups of water. Then soak for 30 minutes. Strain the rice water into a clean bowl. Ta-da!
And that’s it; the 10 most googled beauty questions answered.
