3 makeup steps you need to stop doing, stat
According to a top makeup artist
There are few people who have a level of makeup know-how that could rival that of NARS Global Artistry Director, Uzo. After more than 15 years working alongside François Nars and doing the makeup for the likes of Naomi Campbell, Kim Kardashian and Kirsten Dunst, Uzo has become an industry leader and beacon of makeup knowledge. That’s why we jumped at the opportunity to speak to the makeup artist in an exclusive interview.
Our most burning question? We wanted to know what makeup mistakes we’re all making. Here are the top three makeup steps she thinks we need to stop doing, stat.
1
Over-contouring
While Uzo concedes that contouring is still hugely popular and agrees it’s a great way to sculpt and give dimension to the face, she wishes people would take a more natural approach. “I often find it’s not being blended properly, so can look too heavy”. Instead, she recommends reaching for your blush to contour (a technique also known as draping), for a fresher, more modern take on the classic look. In place of a traditional matte bronzer, “apply your preferred shade of blush to the apples of the cheeks and then sweep the colour up towards the temples”.
Try: NARS Blush in Amour
2
Applying too much foundation
Another top makeup mistake we’re making is applying too much foundation and expecting it to do the work of a concealer. Rather than covering blemishes and dark circles, foundation should be used to even out skin tone and be applied only to the areas that need it. “People often use too much foundation when they may not realise that they can still get a great finish while using less product. Plus, your product will last so much longer this way, too,” she explains.
Additionally, Uzo says, “I’d love to see complexions look a little more sheer, so you can actually see natural skin underneath”. If you have problematic skin and still want to cover up any imperfections, we recommend combining a lightweight foundation (or BB or CC cream) with a full coverage concealer. Doing so will ensure your skin still looks like skin, while ensuring any pimples, dark spots or circles remain hidden.
Try: Bourjois 123 Perfect CC Cream and It Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye Anti-Aging Concealer
3
Wearing matte lipstick
Matte lipstick will always be a classic, but it’s a trend that so many often get wrong. “I think people are overdoing the matte lip trend, as without the right preparation, it tends to look dry and chapped.” To avoid the issue, Uzo’s top tip is to reach for gloss formulas instead. “I personally love gloss, so I’m excited to see it making a comeback. The new NARS Full Vinyl Lip Lacquers (which will launch at MECCA on July 31st) have a great range of everyday shades, plus a few that have a touch of shimmer, which I think gives a fun throwback to the Studio 54, late ‘70s era.”
Looking for more makeup tips and tricks? Then discover three semi-permanent ways to get thicker brows and find out everything you need to know before getting eyelash extensions.
Are you a lip gloss lover, too? Let us know your Holy Grail formula in the comments below.
Main image credit: Getty
Kate started working for BEAUTYcrew in early 2016, first as a contributor, and was then named Beauty Writer in 2017. She loves picking the brains of the industry's top experts to get to the bottom of beauty's toughest questions. Bronze eyeshadow palettes are her weakness and she's forever on the hunt for the perfect nude nail polish to suit her fair skin. Her words can also be found in Men's Health magazine, and she now works in PR.
