by Tanya Burr
Apply your cleanser all over your face and use circular motions on the areas of congestion – the chin, nose and forehead – because this drains toxins. If you’re using a balm or cream cleanser don’t allow it to sink into the skin because it needs to remain on the surface to draw out impurities. Lots of people use an eye make-up remover first and if I’m wearing a lot of eye make-up I will too, but sometimes I’ll feel too lazy to use one product to take my eye make-up off with and another to cleanse my skin. However, when taking your eye-make-up off with either cleanser or an eye make-up remover, it is always important to be gentle around your eyes and not to tug at the skin, because this area of your face is more sensitive and prone to damage.
Sometimes, if I have been wearing a lot of make-up, I love to double cleanse before going to bed. I put my cleanser on dry skin with a little bit of water, then take it off with a flannel and if my skin doesn’t feel completely clean, I do the whole thing over again and my face feels amazing afterwards. It’s really important to spend time while cleansing to remove all residue of make-up.
Finally, I should say never go to bed without taking off your make-up. Believe me, I often feel like I can’t be bothered, especially when I’ve had a really long day! The thought of having to wet my face right before bed can be such a pain. So here’s a tip in case you sometimes feel like that, too. As soon as you know you don’t have anything else to do for the rest of the day, even as early as 6 p.m., take off your make-up, even if you’re not going to bed until 10 p.m. Then it’s like, yes! It’s off! And you’ve done yourself a favour and don’t have to worry about it at bedtime.
TONING
If I’m honest, I go through phases with toner and don’t always use it, but if I find one I like it does make a real difference to my skin. I always keep a bottle of Clarins Gentle Exfoliator Brightening Toner in my bathroom cupboard for times when my skin feels really congested, as it always helps my skin feel clearer. It works by attracting moisture from the air and trapping it in the top layers of the skin. This product was recommended by Caroline Hirons – nothing better than a blogger recommendation! Aside from toner, I also like to use cleansing waters straight after cleanser because they remove any last traces of make-up and hydrate my skin.
EXFOLIATING
Exfoliators stimulate circulation in the skin and remove the dead skin cells, dirt and oil that get clogged deep in your pores. Some are harsher than others and if you have very oily skin, it can be tempting to vigorously exfoliate, but this can make the problem worse. All skin types can benefit from finer grains, more natural ingredients and spherical beads, rather than jagged grains. I use a gentle exfoliating cleanser in the morning which has jojoba beads in it which are spherical, and when you massage them into your skin, they don’t scratch the surface but burst, leaving a light, moisturising oil on your skin. If you don’t want a scrub you can get an exfoliating toner like the Clarins one I mentioned above. Exfoliating masks are another great alternative – Lush do some amazing ones!
SERUM
Serums are light and high-concentrated products that contain lots of anti-aging ingredients that are designed to get into the deeper layers of the skin. They can be worn under moisturiser or on their own and while they are more expensive than normal moisturisers, they do last for ages. When applying serum, only use a pea-sized amount because the skin will only absorb what it needs and after that, any excess product will be wasted. I started using serums a couple of years ago and I can really notice the difference in my skin.
MOISTURISER
Your skin type will play an important part in deciding what moisturiser you should choose because some are much thicker and creamier than others, but it is a myth that people with oily skin shouldn’t use moisturiser.
Like most skincare products you don’t have to break the bank because there are products available at every price point and some are really affordable. I love to give my face a mini-facial when moisturising. Warm the moisturiser between your hands to activate the ingredients, then use firm upward motions from the centre of the face towards the hairline. Don’t forget your neck area!
EYE CREAM
This is good for keeping the delicate skin around your eyes hydrated and will help to combat fine lines. The skin around the eye is one tenth of the density of the skin on the face, so eye products are always much lighter than a moisturiser. I always say if you pinch the skin around your eye and then pinch the skin around your face, it feels as different as pinching the skin around your face and the skin on your forearm. You would never use your body lotion on your face, so you should never use your face cream on your eye area! Do pat the cream on or use soft, sweeping motions and give the cream time to absorb into the skin before applying make-up.
AND IF YOU SUFFER FROM ACNE OR BAD BREAKOUTS …
Let’s face it: acne sucks! When I was younger I had the odd crazy breakout, and a few of my friends had more serious acne problems. They really hated it and thought that by using strong products they could literally scrub it off. But my recommendation for acne is, don’t panic, and don’t use tonnes of harsh acne products or pick your spots because those are the worst things you can do.
Instead, develop a proper skincare regime to prevent breakouts and maintain healthy skin. Always use oil-free cleanser with salicylic acid because this ingredient is anti-bacterial and helps to exfoliate away dead skin cells, which can clog your pores. If you find this too drying, use it two or three times a week alongside a calming and hydrating cleanser. You might find using toner worsens your breakouts or it might help; there is no one-size-fits-all formula, so sometimes it’s a case of trial and error. Always use an oil-free moisturiser.
Topical over-the-counter products can help and your pharmacist will be able to advise you or, if you are really worried about your skin, visit your doctor because they will be able to offer you advice on the best treatments and getting help quickly can lessen the chances of being left with scars. Having acne can be tough and I know it might feel horrible, but with the right treatments, hopefully you’ll be able to see big improvements over time.
A LITTLE NOTE ABOUT SPF …
Before I finish talking about skincare, I think it’s important to also mention using SPF, because too much sun can be the skin’s worst enemy. One thing we are all told time and time again is that while your skin might not show damage from the sun when we are young, it is really important to protect it when you are outside, otherwise it will catch up with you. I wear children’s SPF factor 50 sun cream when I am on holiday and slather it all over my face, neck and chest to keep these areas protected. Sometimes it is easy to forget the top of your chest, but the skin here is also thin and therefore prone to sun damage. So always put on more than you think you need.
MY TOP 10
SKINCARE PRODUCTS
1. EMMA HARDIE MORINGA CLEANSING BALM
I use this balm every night and it really gives my skin a deep cleanse without stripping it of moisture and feels really calming on my skin. The product contains grape and sweet almond seed oil, which are rich in fatty acids to help plump and soften the skin.
2. SIMPLE KIND TO SKIN CLEANSING FACIAL WIPES
I don’t think it’s great to use face wipes all the time, but these are great when travelling and I always pop a packet in my bag when I’m on the go, for an easy and quick way to remove my make-up.
3. ORIGINS GINZING REFRESHING SCRUB CLEANSER
This is a great wake-me-up cleanser for everyday use and I always use it when I’m in the shower first thing. It’s really brightening because it is packed with radiance-boosting ginseng.
4. ORIGINS DR WEIL MEGA-MUSHROOM SKIN RELIEF SOOTHING FACE CREAM
My face always feels super-hydrated after I have applied this rich face cream. It also really reduces redness, which I sometimes suffer from.
5.SUNDAY RILEY GOOD GENES TREATMENT
This gives my skin an instant boost and makes it feel silky soft. It’s super-charged with loads of vitamins and active ing
redients and I have noticed a visible change in my skin since I started using it.
6. BIODERMA CREOLINE H2O MAKE-UP REMOVER
If I’m wearing loads of make-up, this is a great eye make-up remover because it is ultra-gentle, fragrance-free and manages to remove even the thickest mascara.
7. ORIGINS GINZING REFRESHING EYE CREAM
I always apply this in the morning alongside my face moisturiser and it really illuminates the skin under my eyes so my eyes look really fresh, even if I’m tired or have had a late night.
8. ORIGINS EYE DOCTOR
I always try to remember to apply eye cream at night and this one is really soothing and hydrating. It contains green tea extract, which fights off damage from free radicals, so will hopefully stop me going all wrinkly!
9. LUSH CATASTROPHE FRESH FACE MASK
All my viewers will know that I am a big fan of all Lush products (especially at bath time!) and this face mask has blueberries, calamine and chamomile, and rose and almond oils to soothe and soften. It smells amazing!
10. KIEHL’S MIDNIGHT RECOVERY CONCENTRATE
This replenishing skin elixir is for overnight use. I just apply a few drops to my skin and always wake up with supple, clearer skin when I’ve used it.
MY TOP 10
ESSENTIAL BEAUTY TIPS
1. DRINK WATER
I know we’re always told to drink eight glasses of water a day and it sounds quite boring, but drinking water is so important. If your skin is not getting a sufficient amount of water, it tends to become dry, tight, flaky and wrinkly. Drinking enough water will also give you increased energy, flush out toxins and make your skin look brighter and more radiant. So drink up!
2. GET ENOUGH SLEEP
I always try to get my eight hours’ sleep and if I’ve stayed at a friend’s and haven’t had a good sleep, I really miss it and crave sugary foods. If I don’t have an event to go to or any plans in an evening, I always try to be in bed by 10 p.m. I think sleep is really important when it comes to feeling and looking good. Your skin and whole body go into repair mode when you’re asleep and the skin renews itself. Lack of sleep can result in headaches, irritability, lack of energy and the inability to focus, and you will also find yourself more prone to breakouts. So get on your favourite PJs, snuggle down and have an early night! Use a soft pillowcase because this will be kinder to the skin on your face.
3. EAT HEAPS OF FRUIT AND VEG
Try to incorporate lots of fresh food and vegetables into your diet. Some examples of foods that are good for your skin includes blueberries because they are packed with antioxidants and Vitamin C to help strengthen collagen formation; spinach, which is full of folic acid and vitamins; and sweet potatoes because these contain beta-carotene, which is great for your skin.
4. GET TO KNOW YOUR SKIN
Everyone’s skin is different. If you’re unsure about what skin type you have or what might work for you, treat yourself to a facial. I’ve only ever had two facials in my lifetime but they were invaluable because I asked loads of questions and learned so much about my skin and the best products to use. A recommended facialist will give you all the recommendations you need to continue a good skincare regime at home.
5. ALWAYS APPLY LIP BALM
Having flaky, chapped lips is not a good look, so do use your lip balm regularly to combat dry skin. I love sleeping with my Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream slathered all over my lips, so when I wake up they feel really plump and hydrated.
6. EXFOLIATE
Give yourself a full body exfoliation once a week. This is really important because it removes dead skin cells, improves circulation, helps with detoxification and is firming and toning. Basically it makes your skin look amazing! It is more effective if you apply the exfoliator or body scrub to dry skin, rather than when you are already in the shower. Massage the scrub all over your whole body from your toes to your shoulders and then get into the shower or bath and wash it away. Afterwards your skin will feel smooth and conditioned and you will feel like a completely new person!
7. USE GRADUAL FAKE TAN
I go through real phases with fake tan; sometimes I prefer a paler skin look, while other times I love looking all sun-kissed and have a spray tan done by St Tropez. Having glowing skin can give you a real boost of confidence.
I always like my fake tan to look natural and I think the best way to fake tan at home is to use a gradual tan because it is less scary, with less room for error. Preparation is the key, so make sure you have exfoliated beforehand and pay closest attention to the dry areas of your body like your elbows. Work from your shoulders down and make sure you massage the product in really well. Always choose a specifically designed facial tanning product for your face. Afterwards, I wash my hands, then put a little bit just on the backs of my hands and rub them together, then rub my wrists together too. That way you don’t have an obvious line between your wrists and hands. Give the tan time to dry and don’t wear any tight clothes straight afterwards. It requires a few applications to achieve a good depth of colour and leaves your skin soft, moisturised and hopefully streak-free!
8. MOISTURISE EVERY DAY
Make sure you moisturise your whole body every day, not just in the summer months when you’re going to have more skin on show! Massage the moisturiser into your skin really thoroughly because this will improve your circulation and help you get rid of cellulite and it will also make you feel so much better about your body. And don’t forget your feet – they need loads of TLC, too!
9. BEAUTY ON THE GO
I travel a lot and whether it’s a long car or train journey or a flight I’m on, I always try to go make-up-free so my skin can breathe. When packing, it’s important to take your favourite products with you; just decant them into smaller plastic bottles. Flying in particular can really dry out your skin, so take your favourite hydrating face mask in your hand luggage. If you’re meeting someone special at the other end of your journey, remove your face mask, then apply some tinted moisturiser, a slick of mascara and some lip gloss before you disembark and you’ll look fresh-faced and gorgeous.
10. GET THE GLOW
If you want more luminous skin from the inside out, work out three times a week. This will accelerate blood flow and bring oxygen and nutrients to the skin. Exercising will also help you detox, leaving your skin looking refreshed and regenerated. I know it can feel like a massive chore but it’s worth it!
List your skincare regime and the ways you might improve it …
List your beauty icons and why they inspire you …
Make-up, to me, is all about creativity, expression and having fun. I love the fact that make-up can represent how you feel on any particular day and really help to complete a look. If I have a day when I want to feel really feminine and stylish, I try to re-create Audrey Hepburn’s look and if I was going out and wanted to feel like a sexy bombshell, then I would go for a Marilyn Monroe look. I love the fact that I can wake up feeling and looking like one person and then leave the house looking like someone else!
When I was growing up and as a teenager, I was always a real girly-girl and thought that make-up was fun, but I wasn’t very serious about it. I remember having a Natural Collection Peppermint lip gloss and I used to keep it in my shirt pocket at school. When I was at my nanny and granddad’s, we used to watch loads of old black and white films, like Seven Brides For Seven Brothers, Funny Face and Breakfast at Tiffany’s.
I always noticed how striking the actresses looked, and the polished look they all seemed to pull off perfectly is still one of my favourite make-up styles. Audrey Hepburn is my ultimate make-up icon because she looked so effortlessly chic and elegant all the time.
Since that time, my obsession with make-up has just continued to grow. I think that while experimenting and having fun with make-up is great, having just a small amount of basic make-up knowledge can have a huge impact on the way you look. I’ve decided to not cover different make-up looks because following them on my YouTube
channel is easier (and I would still be writing this book in 2020!), but in this chapter I want to give you a few helpful tips and the absolute basics on applying a fresh face of gorgeous make-up.
TOOLS
Having the right kit makes all the difference when it comes to applying your make-up and, like any artist, a make-up artist wouldn’t get anywhere without the correct tools!
BRUSHES
Even if you wear very simple make-up, it can look much better if you apply it with the right brushes. Good-quality brushes are not hard to find; almost every brand and many professional make-up artists have their own lines. While it might seem like a bit of an investment at first, not only will they give you a flawless finish but they will also help your products last longer as well as helping you save money in the long run. There are a huge range of styles, shapes and bristle types – you can choose from natural or synthetic ones – and I often change up my brushes and use different ones for different purposes. Here is a list of my top brushes that I couldn’t live without.
Foundation brush
These come in so many different shapes and sizes. My favourite one – which is so good I think I’m going to use it for the rest of my life! – is the Bobbi Brown Face Blender. It’s a fluffy brush that’s not too dense and therefore applies foundation in the most natural way.
Blush brush
This is a round brush. It needs to be wide enough to cover the apple of your cheek and ultra-soft so it doesn’t disturb your foundation or irritate your skin. My favourite at the moment is the Real Techniques Multitask Brush. I love using this brush because it has a nice round shape and is the perfect size for my cheeks. It’s really important to get a brush that’s the right size for your face. I have quite a big face, so when I’m doing make-up for my friends with smaller faces I have to use a smaller brush!