I recently walked in on my friend in a compromising position. She was in her bathroom, semi-clad, pressed up against the mirror…liberally applying illuminating powder over her entire face. Appalled, I demanded to know what exactly she thought she was doing. “I’m putting on my bronzer,” she nonchalantly replied, as she continued to turn her face into a walking, talking disco ball.
Now I admit, while this friend in question (who might I add I absolutely love to bits) isn’t always the most make-up savvy amongst us, she’s probably not the only one out there getting her contouring companions in a knot – which is why I thought it about time I set the record straight.
Illuminators are primarily used to add subtle radiance to your skin or highlight certain features on your face. “If your complexion needs a quick pick-me-up, mix a pea-sized amount of illuminator in with your foundation before application,” advises make-up artist Nicky Lurie. You can also use an illuminator on its own to show off your best assets (and no, just because you might look like Heidi Klum doesn’t mean your entire face is your best asset, so be selective!). “I like to use it on the tops of the cheekbones, along the brow bone and in the inner corners of the eyes,” says Lurie.
Try:BECCA Shimmering Skin Perfector or Natio Glow Skin Brightening Face Balm
Bronzers, like the word suggests, should be no hue other than varying tones of gold, honey, copper and – of course – bronze. They are used to contour and sculpt the face, or to produce a subtle sun-kissed glow, not take your skin three shades darker. “If you want an all-over darker look, do not try to achieve it with bronzer!” warns Lurie. “Rather go up a shade or two in your foundation then use your bronzer sparingly on areas like the forehead, cheekbones and temples to create a natural-looking tan.”
Try: Face of Australia Pressed Bronzer or Le Tan Bronzing Brush
Blush comes in cream or powder form (in a plethora of shades ranging from pink and peach, to burgundy and lilac) and is used to create a natural, feminine flush. When applying blush, start with a small amount first and build on that to avoid what we at beautyheaven like to call the ‘clown effect’. “It’s also important to apply your blush higher up along your cheekbones as this will create a lifting effect,” recommends Lurie.
Try:Maybelline New York Dream Mousse Blush, or Bare Escentuals bareMinerals Glee
Are you guilty of confusing your bronzer, illuminator and blush?
So many products to beautify your complexion!