Natural, glowy, feathery brows and freckles.

Natural make-up!

I don't know about you, but I am quite bored of seeing the same uniformed ideal seen over on Instagram.  Everyone seems to be a carbon copy of everyone else don't you think? Where brows are blocked and almost "fuzzy felt",  Eyeshadow is "cut crease", Contour has gone crazy with noses being slimmed down and cheekbones exaggerated with brown stripes and lips are blown up with fillers.  Make-up is so heavy, I really do feel it is time for the less is more approach, more than ever!  I think that things have gone this way due to brands wanting to promote their products and so having lots of products applied is a great way for them to increase their sales.  However, saying that, I also feel that no one is happy with the way they look naturally or with minimal make-up.  These heavy looks are very much idolised by the majority and so feeding it even more.  Where will it all end?! I really do worry about the younger generation where they feel that they are not already beautiful and they feel that they need to conform to this kind of look.

As a Make-up artist who is considered "well seasoned" shall we say, I do find that ladies of all ages are affected by this too and most are struggling with their identities because of this trend. I have felt the pressure to conform to do these looks on my clients from social media, however, I have never felt it right to nor would I ever.  I will always stay true to my belief that less is more and to show people that they are unique and beautiful in their own way, they do not need to mask it nor change the way they look dramatically to do that.  If someone say has a "big nose" then that makes that person them and I feel we should not try and change it or slim it down, for example.

The area I specialise in is making people look and feel better by enhancing their individuality and not cloning them. It is the way I was taught, (I have been in the industry for about 28 years in total, and boy have I seen a change!) I will continue to do so, despite it not making me very "popular".  It is so sad that people are now under the illusion of having to look a certain way because of Instagram, etc, at a very young age too.  My work is the opposite of that, (thank goodness!)  It is about keeping things real, (hence my lack of followers compared to the drag queen style people who apply make-up.)  I was very pleased to see the fantastic Alex Box highlight this issue over on her Instagram by posting this...

A poem by Alex Box.

A poem by Alex Box.

I enhanced the beautiful Charlotte by using the following products -

Glossier Skin perfecting tint in Light, Makeup Forever HD powder and then their Pro light fusion Luminizer in Golden Pink, Glossier Cloud paint in Puff, Brows using a Louise Young cosmetics LY30 brush and Bobbi Brown eyeshadow in Mahogany then Glossier Boy brow gel in Clear. Freckles were created and enhanced using a Bobbi Brown Brow pencil in Grey, (as it has a brown undertone). Eyes were Urban Decay cosmetics Naked heat palette in Scorched and the Makeup Forever highlighter. Definition along the lash line from Bobbi Brown gel liner in Caviar Ink and Urban Decay cosmetics Cannonball mascara. Lips were Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood lips in Sweetheart with Kevyn Aucoin The Exotique Diamond eye gloss in Moonlight used as gloss on the lips

Dewy and natural makeup.

Dewy and natural makeup.

Long live natural make-up!! x

Tina's fave skincare

My favourite skincare products...

I have finally got around to updating my blog, as promised! so here is what I like to use on my skin.

As I mentioned on my Facebook page, I don't believe in spending too much money on a cleanser, as its not on your skin very long, saying that, obviously I wouldn't just use any old thing either!

I used to use the Liz Earle hot cloth cleanser but then Aldi brought out a much cheaper option, (£3.99 for 200 ml).  Sadly, its not an ongoing thing at the moment, (hence me bulk buying!)

Its very quick at removing make-up and gentle, very creamy. Ingredients include rosemary, chamomile, cocoa butter and eucalyptus oil - its smells exactly the same as the Liz Earle product, and you get more too!

I use with a flannel usually, occasionally with the muslin cloth included.  Apply the cleanser onto your face and massage in, soak the flannel/cloth into hot water and then apply onto your face and cleanse.  I usually do a second cleanse too.  I then splash my face with very cold water. At this stage I would use the Paula's choice 2% BHA skin perfecting liquid exfoliant, (I am using this every 2 days or so.)

For morning, I would then follow with Paula's choice Resist skin restoring SPF50 moisturiser, and depending on how my skin looks and feels, I may add a bit of the Paula's choice Moisture renewal oil booster if needed.  I also add one or two squirts of the Resist Anti-aging 1% retinol booster, (either just in a morning or at night too.) My eye cream of choice is my beloved Bobbi Brown Eye repair cream, (£48), you only use a tiny amount and tap gently.  I love this as it is very rich.  I have tried lots of eye creams, but for me, this one is the best, (I wish Aldi would bring one of these out!)

For evening, I would use the Hot cloth cleanser again and then use Paula's choice 2% BHA, (every 2 evenings or so.)  I love this product.  My daughter and Husband are hooked too!  It is a fluid, fortified with salicylic acid to help renew skin and minimise pores.  You don't rinse this product off, you leave it on.  It targets the skin surface and deep down too.  It calms redness and any blemishes are reduced too.  I have really noticed a difference in my skin after using this product.  My skin looks so much more polished.  It also increases collagen.  (If you are allergic to aspirin, don't use this product.)  Always use a sunscreen of SPF25 or higher after using this product, (not on an evening though obviously.)

I would then follow with a good moisturiser, depending on the time of year and how my skin looks and feels, my favourite includes Embryolisse Lait creme concentre, (not shown in photo - £20), but this is such a lovely, rich moisturiser and very nourishing, you can even use it as a mask and on babies!  Rich in fatty acids and vitamins, (sadly no SPF so not suitable for day use unless you mix in your own SPF.)

If my skin felt dry I would use Bobbi Brown Extra repair moisturising balm, (£68).  It is very thick, but you do have to warm it between your fingers first and then press onto your skin.  It smells amazing too.  I sometimes add this for day too, under my make-up.  I also use the Bobbi Brown eye cream before bed too.

(I have been trying out the new Midnight repair Aldi skincare range and I must say its very impressive but it did give me a few spots, I think as it was a new product, but I will report back about this range.)

 

 

Tina's new make-up studio.

My new make-up studio is now open!

I am proud to announce my new luxury make-up studio is now officially open!

Based in Brigsley , (a little village on the outskirts of Grimsby and close to the beautiful Lincolnshire wolds), my make-up studio is fully equipped for all of your make-up requirements and my extensive Pro make-up kit includes the most exclusive make-up products in the area, such as Bobbi Brown, Charlotte Tilbury, Make-up Forever, Urban Decay, Glossier and Tom Ford.

I offer not only Bridal/wedding make-up but also the very popular make-up lessons, (please see separate page for information.)

My 28 years experience as a Make-up artist means you will receive the best possible attention and you will not only look amazing, but feel amazing too!

Please refer to Tina's Facebook page - http://www.facebook.com/TinaBrocklebankMUA for reviews and lots of information.

I look forward to being of assistance to you should you get in touch!

Tina's Pro make-up kit.

Tina's Pro make-up kit.

Swarovski crystal/Spring make-up.

Time to Spring clean your make-up!

Spring is in the air!...(well nearly!)  this is the perfect time to Spring clean your make-up!

Get rid of anything that is smelly, dried up or broken...a time to declutter and purchase your go-to products, (and a time to book me for a make-up lesson so I can save you money, so you know what suits you, thus not waste your money on products that do nothing for you.)

Look on the bottom of your products and this will give you a guide to how long you can keep your products for, before they go off.  You may be doing your skin more harm than good if you don't adhere to this guide.

Here's a handy little guide -

Lipstick/liner - 1 year

Lip gloss - Up to 2 years

Pencil eye liner - Up to 2 years

Gel liner - Up to 3 months

Foundation - 12 - 18 months, (depending on the ingredients.)

Powder - Up to 18 months

Mascara - 3 months

If you were to book a make-up lesson with me, I would show you each step, from skin prep, foundation, concealer, powder, eyes and brows, blush and highlight and lipstick.  I then provide you with a personalised face chart and product list, so then you can go and purchase any products you like, (I don't work on commission nor am I affiliated with any brand.)  I also give you a step by step guide to take away and then e-mail you your before and after photo.  Plus, I am always there for back-up after your lesson, if you need a bit of help via email or message.

Lessons are an hour long and are £150 in my new makeup studio here in Lincolnshire.  I have an extensive, professional make-up kit, I use mainly Charlotte Tilbury, Bobbi Brown, Urban Decay, Make-up Forever and Glossier.

I found some Swarovski crystals recently and thought I would have a little play - here is what I used -

Makeup Forever HD foundation, highlighter and Aqua cream eyeshadow, Rodial beauty contouring powder, Brows Anastasia beverly hills Dipbrow pomade and Glossier boy Brow, Eyeshadows by Urban decay cosmetics, blush is Pale pink from Bobbi Brow,  lip colour is from Mac cosmetics Necessary nudes Pro palette in Frou and liner is Bobbi from Bobbi Brown.  I then stuck on the crystals with some Duo false eyelash glue.  It always feels good to play around with make-up and have fun with it!...try it!

 

 

 

The Journal magazine.

The Journal magazine.

My February make-up article is out now in The Journal magazine, all about foundations.  How to chose the right one, which are the best ones and how to apply them.  The magazine now covers the whole of Lincolnshire!

The Journal magazine.

The Journal magazine.

GLOSSIER

GLOSSIER review.

This brand has been intriguing me for quite some time. There's been a bit of a buzz about it and the thing that drew me to want to try it was that it promoted a "less is more" approach to beauty, which as you probably know, I love. I think the whole industry actually needs a brand like this to shake up the whole drag queen look thing that is dictating at the moment, (even though, for me, Bobbi Brown started this movement in the late 90's and sadly since Bobbi left, the brand has not adhered to that...but moving on!!...)

Apparently it all began in 2010 on IntoTheGloss.com which is a very successful beauty blog with a loyal and influential readership and editors with a sixth-sense for what is relevant and what works. It was one of America's most popular beauty brands and has now taken the U.K by storm.

The philosophy was created by a group of Beauty editors that have literally tried everything and know what works. They have developed "the best formulations with real-life usage in mind and put them in the chicest packaging that won't cost you half a pay check. Beauty should be fun, easy, imperfect and personal."

I was excited to receive lots of Glossier products to try and dived right on in there! (with the help of my 18 year old daughter of course, who has been lusting over the products online for quite some time!)

Let me start with the packaging - modern, very chic and yes, recyclable.

I think the brand is aimed towards the younger market, teens and so on, or the lady who has great skin already and therefore, doesn't need much make-up or indeed someone who doesn't like to be seen to have an obvious face of make-up, as the textures are very sheer.

I wanted to compare how the products performed on both ages, (me being 48 and my daughter being 18.) I wanted to shake up my own make-up and was open to maybe weaning myself off my beloved, trusty Bobbi Brown make-up.

OK, lets start with Alisha, (my daughter's), make-up and skincare. Alisha has been suffering with acne for the past 2/3 years and we have tried literally everything and I am pleased to report that at the moment all is well skin wise. She is on the right medication and skincare, (Paula's choice). Both seem to be suiting her skin brilliantly at the moment. Her skin looks beautiful, and she is obviously therefore, more confident and happy...(phew!its been a while getting there.)

This is her skincare routine -
Paula's choice Clear pore normalising cleanser,(twice a day.) Clear regular strength 2% BHA exfoliant, (twice a day). Clear moisturiser SPF 30, (used before make-up.)

Alisha is now at the stage where she doesn't have to wear much make-up, and frankly, she has never been one of those girls who likes doing that, (I don't really understand why young girls feel they need to anyway, when they are young and if they have beautiful, young skin...why mask that?) Alisha did not want to upset her skin and is very particular about what she puts on her skin so decided not to try the Glossier concealer or skin tint. She has a very pale skin and is the lightest shade foundation from Bobbi Brown in Alabaster, which is what she used on this occasion with her usual NARS concealer in Chantilly. She only uses a tiny amount of each to even out her skin and cover any scarring.

I was honoured to be able to do the rest of her make-up for her! using the Glossier products, (she likes to do her own make-up usually and is a tough cookie to please!) I wanted to create an easy, natural, pretty, chic make-up look for her, just using purely my fingers. I started with her brows. Beautiful, natural and feathery already, (sob, sob!) I used Brown Boy brow. It comes with a great little brush applicator, perfect for getting those tiny little hairs and for styling brows. (There are 4 shades in total.) I sometimes mix the shades to create more definition and depth, if needed, (not on this occasion though.)

Eyes next and I was dying to use the Cloud paints! I chose the shade Beam. Now these are usually used for the cheeks but I used it on the eyes, cheeks and lips! I got great results. I just used my ring finger to apply all over the lid, above the crease and smudged away, very easy to work with and effortless. (I also applied a tad of the shade Dusk, just at the top edge of this and slightly in the crease of the lid, just for the hell of it.)

Next I used the Boy brow as a mascara - we had one in Black so I applied on the top and bottom lashes. Obviously it is formulated to give a little bit of oomph to brows, so not amazing thickness given on the lashes, but that was fine for the look we wanted.

I then used the Cloud paint on the apples of the cheeks in Dusk, (a to die for colour and worked with her skin tone beautifully.) The gel-cream texture just melted seamlessly into her skin. I used my ring finger again and blended out towards the hair line. Very easy to work with and a dream to use.

Next, I used the Haloscope highlighter straight from the bullet onto her skin, and blended with my finger. I used this high on the top of the cheekbones, under the arch of her brow and inner corner of eyes, down the bridge of the nose, above the cupids bow and a dot on her forehead. It created a natural, dewy highlight.

I then applied Cloud paint in Dusk on her lips and used a tiny amount of the Birthday balm to moisturise a bit and add sheen, (this actually smells like birthday cake, really gorgeous.) It also has little particles of shimmer in it too.

We were very impressed with the ease of application and effect given. We were a bit giddy to be honest...sad aren't we!

I then went onto to my make-up, which I knew from the off, (after doing Alisha's), that the products were not going to work hard enough for me. Obviously with me being that bit older and used to a bit more make-up. I need more definition and coverage...fact!

I used the following - Priming rich moisturiser. I have quite dry skin and love that dewy look, rather than matte. (However, I did apply my Bobbi Brown moisture balm SPF 25 on top as the Glossier moisturiser has no SPF, then used my Bobbi Brown Extra repair eye cream under my eyes.) There is a Glossier SPF available to buy, called Invisible shield, so you would apply this after moisturiser and before make-up, (I would loved to have tried this.) I have read reviews that suggest the ingredients do not cover full sun protection, but would love to know more...

I then used the Perfecting skin tint in Medium. It reminded me of MAC Face and body, but a much smaller bottle. However, it wasn't as pigmented but beautiful consistency. I needed more coverage than what it was offering. I also used the Stretch concealers in Medium on my skin and under my eyes, the shade light. Personally, because I like a bit more coverage under my eyes and on my skin, I was not a fan of these concealers and they did not last very well, I had to touch up with my usual concealers. I think they would be great for someone with younger skin though. (I did try a bit on Alisha in the shade light and it did last well and was a great shade for her.) I don't use powder on my face as I prefer that dewy look.

I then applied the Boy Brow in Brown. My brows are a bit more sparse, so I still had to fill in with my Anastasia Dip brow pomade.
I then used the shade Beam in Cloud paint on my eyes and blended. I like my definition along the top lash line so used my regular gel liner in Black for that together with my usual mascara.

Cheeks next - I used the Glossier Cloud paint in Haze which gives a beautiful, natural flush to the cheek, as without that flush, I look, well, dead to be frank! I then used the Haloscope highlighter in Topaz, (which is a bit warmer than the other 2.) I then used the Cloud paint in Dusk on my lips and finished with the Glossier Rose balm, which smells gorgeous.

Tina using GLOSSIER

Tina using GLOSSIER

All in all, we both loved the Glossier products, and I am definitely going to be adding some of the products to my kit. Great for clients who like that effortless, pared down, minimal look. Excellent value for money and very cool products. It's a yes from me, (but give me more coverage and longevity), and a YES from Alisha!

Available from www.glossier.com

Valentines day makeup by Tina Brocklebank.

Valentines day...

I can't wait for January to be out of the way! I don't know about you, but I find it a bit depressing! What with Christmas and New Year just gone, I am feeling a bit frazzled to say the least, so I am really looking forward to Spring, (plus its my birthday...not that I am looking forward to being a year older!)

My make-up studio is coming along nicely. There's still a bit to do, but I aim to be in there for the next few weeks. I really can't wait and I am so grateful to Jo of The Wedding and Flower boutique for letting me work from her studio. A lovely lady! Check out her work on Facebook and Instagram...amazing!

Valentines day is next month and I thought I would post up one of my favourite make-up looks which I did for a shoot, for around this time of the year. I used Make-up Forever HD foundation, Bobbi Brown Instant long wear concealer and a Charlotte Tilbury highlighter to give the skin that lovely dewy glow. Brows were defined with a little bit of eyeshadow and held in place with a bit of brow gel. I then used an Illamasqua eyeshadow in Android, (probably best to do the eyes first if you are doing a smokey eye, as its less messy!) I then used a Bobbi Brown long wear pencil in Jet and finished with some lovely MAC false lashes. I then used a creamy blush, I think this one is Pale pink from Bobbi Brown, but only a smidge. For lips I used a Charlotte Tilbury lip pencil in Kiss n tell and then a Charlotte Tilbury Matte lipstick in Love Bite. I only used a bit of powder down the t-zone to stop shine - I like the Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush flawless finish.

Lots of enquiries this week for weddings next year! My diary is now open and I have started to take on bookings, so please get in touch to check availability and to book, to avoid disappointment.

Please feel free to comment on my blog. Thank you for reading and for following my work!

Tina Brocklebank Make-up artist - Day make-up.

My day make-up products and routine...

I don't get a lot of time in the morning for make-up, but saying that, I do make it a priority. I can wake up feeling pretty crappy and frankly, looking it too! So the whole ritual of looking after my skin and applying make-up, for me, is a necessity and if I don't do it, I feel rubbish all day, not to mention look tired, and well, lets face it, ill!!

I like to start by cleansing my skin well and I am using Paula's choice Hydrating cleanser and I really am quite firm with the cleansing! I then like to splash it off with lots of really cold water. I then pat dry, allowing my skin to still be damp. I then use my faithful and trusty Bobbi Brown Extra repair moisturising balm, SPF 25. I love this product as I have really dry skin and using this makes it look fresher and a tad younger if anything else! a lovely glow is given, (which I badly need!) I then use the Bobbi Brown Extra repair eye cream, tapping it in lightly, under the eye area. I have really noticed a difference as I am getting older, (I am now 47). Fine lines and dark shadows are a bug-bear for me! grrrrr.....

Once this is done, (which takes about 5 minutes), I start my make-up.

Depending on how my skin looks and feels, (and how knackered I look!), I chose my foundation according to this.

On the photo, that particular morning I was looking my usual ill unmade up self, so I needed a bit more warmth in my skin, so I go one shade darker with my foundation/tinted moisturiser. Todays ammunition was the Charlotte Tilbury Healthy glow, I use this on top of the Bobbi Brown moisturiser. Its a strange product as when you squeeze the tube, it comes out light grey and then when you blend it into your skin, it morphs into your skin and transforms your skin into a warmer shade, but natural. This is suitable for men and women. (A great product, but no SPF.)

So, once I have a bit of a good base to work with, I then go to work with concealing any blemishes and uneven areas. I use Bobbi Brown Instant full cover concealer in the shade Sand. These concealers are the business! They stay on all day, do not budge and look very natural. I work this in with my fingers, just tapping lightly.

Next I go to work underneath my eye are, (not my favourite part of my face, as I have mentioned!!) I look tired and very dark under here...but I have my secret weapons! (thank goodness!)

I use the same Bobbi Brown Instant concealer but one shade lighter under here, (if I am particularly dark I will use a corrector too, my favourite is by BECCA in Peach.) I keep layering the concealer until as much darkness is gone...so it may take a few layers, but they need to be light. I use my ring finger to blend. Don't forget, this is the deepest part of your face, so naturally, it is going to look darker, (even though I don't remind myself of this!)

OK so next, I work on my brows. When I was in my early twenties, it was fashionable to have a very thin, almost Biba-type brow, (a trend worn by Kate Moss, and of course, I thought at the time, I could carry this look off. Looking back, I looked more like Barbara Cartland.) So to "plump" up my almost non-existent brows, I use Maybelline Brow precise fiber filler, (which is really a brow mascara, which helps to bulk up what hairs you do have there. A clever little product.) Go easy here, you don't want to end up looking Denis Healy. If there are any sparse areas I then use Anastasia Beverley Hills Dip brow pomade in Ash brown with a MyKitco My tiny liner 11 Pro brush. I use the tiniest amount of product and mimic little brow hairs, finishing with some Maybelline Brow drama gel through the brows to set and to add further texture.

Eyes are next - I use a cream product usually as a base, (its called a Primer nowadays.) I apply this with my finger and blend. This ensures longevity if I use a powder eyeshadow and makes sure it doesn't crease. I use Bobbi Brown Long wear cream eyeshadow in Sand dollar or Cream eyeshadow stick in Truffle, I take this right up to the brow.

Next I use my Charlotte Tilbury Instant look in a palette, (Beauty glow.) I use a mixture of the 2 darker eyeshadows and apply to the outer areas of the lid, above the crease and slightly under the eye area. I use a MAC 217 for this. I have seen as I have got older, I "need" more definition and colour. I never really used to wear eyeshadow.

Definition is next, so I use my Maybelline Lasting drama gel eyeliner in Black and I apply with my Maggie Hunt No7 angled brush, (amazing brushes by the way by the wonderful Maggie, who I aim to go and visit early next year.) I start in the middle of the eye first, (top lid), and push it right into the roots of the lashes and underneath, in the top waterline too. At the ends of my lids, I extend the line slightly, to elongate my eyes and to mimic slightly longer lashes at the ends. The line goes right into the inner corners too.

I use about 3 layers of Max Factor 2000 calorie mascara in Black, (curling first with a Kevyn Aucoin eyelash curler.) I always encourage more curl as the mascara is drying, by pushing up the lashes slightly with my sides of my finger!

A little bit of the Charlotte Tilbury highlight is dotted in the inner corners of the eyes and under my brow arches, (which is in the palette.)

To add a bit more warmth, if needed, I use Bobbi Brown Bronzing gel, (Joe Brown.) I am not sure if they are selling this anymore, as I have just checked on their website. But, its a great product. You just pat it on and blend well. I use it on my forehead and on the tops of cheekbones.

Blush is next. I like a dewy look, (more youthful!) so I use a cream product - I love either Bobbi Brown cream blush, (Fresh Melon is so natural!) or Make-up Forever HD cream blush in Flamingo Pink - 215. I only use a tiny amount on the apples of my cheeks and blend towards the outer part of my face.

I use a little bit of the highlighter from the Charlotte Tilbury palette, along the top of my cheekbones sometimes for more glow.

Lips - I always revert to a nude lip. If I go darker or brighter, I just don't feel like me! First I use a pencil all over the lips, (Charlotte Tilbury Lip cheat in Pillow talk or Bobbi Brown Beige.) I then use a lipstick over the top, my current favourite is by Charlotte Tilbury Hot lips, Kim K.W. However, I can't seem to get over Tom Ford Nude blush lipstick, its my absolute favourite. I then lightly define around the lips, in Charlotte Tilbury Lip cheat - Iconic nude.

...and that's me for the day! I can't say bright eyed and bushy tailed but I can say, ready for the day! Feeling, (and without a doubt, looking!!) a better version of myself.

The whole routine takes me about half an hour. Now I now a lot of ladies say, "half an hour?!!" like that's some sort of crime! but I always say; that is the only time you have to yourself the whole day, the only time you do something for yourself, so why not half an hour?! Get up a little bit earlier?! Maybe invest in yourself? Don't feel guilty about it!! We could all stay in bed a bit longer, and I always want to! But the if its a toss between extra minutes in bed and looking and feeling rubbish the whole day, or getting up earlier and looking and feeling ok all day, then you know which I choose! I certainly feel the rewards, and for me, that is what make-up and skincare are about, not just visual, but actually a little bit of therapy and self-love!

Thanks for reading my blog x x x

Bobbi Brown Extra balm rinse

My top 4 cleansers...

Yep, I'm a sucker for trying out new products, lotions and potions. My bathroom shelf resembles a shelf in Boots the chemist, I'll admit.

I have tried most cleansers and for me personally a good cleanser, has to smell nice, be of a good creamy consistency, isn't harsh or too strongly perfumed, and makes my skin clean quickly and effectively, ready for toning and moisturising.

Obviously, there are so many different cleansers available now, its easy not to get a bit bewildered and overwhelmed with them. Here are my top 4 cleansers which I always use -

Best budget buy cleansers - Aldi Hot cloth cleanser, £3.99 - To rival the liz Earle Hot cloth cleanser, (which I love, but lets face it, if a cheaper product does as well and is as luxurious, then I am going to buy the cheaper option.) 85% cheaper than the Liz Earle product. Gorgeous and creamy with a smell very similar, if not identical to the Liz Earle product. Removes make-up very quickly and feels refreshing and soothing. Gimme, gimme gimme! Back on the shelves 30th Nov!
Garnier Micellar water - £3.29, as good as the original cult classic - Bioderma - which I use in my make-up kit. A one step cleanser, no fuss and no rinse. Great for even sensitive skin.

Best mid-range cleansers - Emma Hardie Amazing Face Moringa cleansing balm - £39 - An indulgent, buttery balm with a heavenly scent. A little goes a long way, (I was very sad to use the last bit.) Leaves your skin clean, hydrated and luminous. Can also be used as a face mask.

Best high end cleanser - Bobbi Brown Extra balm rinse - £50 - Gorgeous, conditioning cleanser with a refreshing, lemony scent, leaves skin feeling smooth and looking radiant, my favourite cleanser, (and I love to use this when I am feeling tired or hungover, as the scent really helps lifts the spirits! pardon the pun.)

Tina Brocklebank Make-up artist

Make-up tips for the day after the night before...

The November Lincoln Journal is out and my column for this month focuses on "morning after make-up"! Something which I know a lot about sadly! After abstaining from drinking alcohol for about 4 months I thought it was a good idea one night to drink quite a lot, which left me feeling, and looking, like something from The Walking dead.

Needless to say, I had to venture out, so I needed to apply a tad of make-up, just so I didn't scare people, (the photo I have attached obviously is not the day of the hangover, that is not for public viewing...I wouldn't subject anyone to that!)

The party season can certainly take its toll on us and it reflects not only on our waistlines but on our skin too. Skin can look very dehydrated, sallow and a build up of toxins can cause irritations and blemishes.

I always find Christmas and New Year difficult, as its such a indulgent time of the year, and I do like to look after myself during the rest of the year. I find it difficult not to get caught up with it all!

However, saying that, regardless of how much I drink or eat, or how I am dreadful I may be feeling, I always make sure I remove my make-up before I go to bed.

I have just discovered an excellent product by Paula’s choice, (Skin perfecting 2% BHA liquid exfoliant - £25.) You apply it after you have cleansed and toned your face and leave it on to work its magic. It removes dead skin on the surface and inside the pores. The magic ingredient is BHA, (salicylic acid) and has anti-inflammatory properties, so helps to reduce any blemishes and blackheads. The Resist Anti-aging cleanser is amazing too, to use beforehand, (£21.) I like to cleanse twice to ensure my skin is really clean, splash with very cold water and then apply the exfoliant. I also use the Resist Anti-aging 1% retinol booster, which you can mix with your usual moisturiser for a boost. I like to use Bobbi Brown Extra repair moisturising balm SPF25.

If, like me, you suffer with dark under eye circles or puffy eyes, make-up works a treat! But you can also try some cold cotton wool pads on them or cucumber. Anything cold will soothe and help with puffiness. You can also buy gel masks to apply, which you keep in the fridge. Eye gel is another way to de-puff the delicate under-eye area, and there are lots on the market to try, but make sure they are not too perfumed. Apply with your ring finger and apply in a light patting motion. My favourite eye cream is by Bobbi Brown, the Extra eye repair cream, which I use before make-up and before I go to bed.

If your lips tend to go dry, apply good old Vaseline or a lip balm before bed. Use an old toothbrush or cotton bud to remove any loose bits of skin.

Prior to make-up if I am feeling particularly ropey, I like to use City Life facial mist by Oskia, (£48), as it assists with rehydrating my dull face, prior to make-up. It adds luminosity and radiance, and lets face it, we don’t always feel like putting on a full face of make-up, especially if a hangover is in full effect!

With make-up, less is more, the last thing you feel like doing is applying lots of make-up. Its best to spend time prepping and perking up the skin.

Good bases that aid the alive look are - Bourjois healthy mix serum foundation and Laura Mercier Illuminating tinted moisturiser. Both give a lovely dewy finish and radiance, when you may need it the most!

For under the eyes, after eye cream, if you are dark try BECCA under eye brightening corrector, then apply your usual concealer on the top. If you are very dark try the Laura Mercier secret camouflage concealers, (but mix them a bit with a little eye cream, as they are a bit dry.) Benefit also do a lilac, Instant eye bright stick, which you apply after eye cream and then conceal on the top. Its good to use peach or lilac to counteract any darkness under the eyes, it can disguise the heaviest of nights out!

Concealer wise, I like using the Bobbi Brown Instant Full cover concealer, as it doesn’t crease and it is great coverage. I still like to use the cult product by YSL, Touche eclait on most days, but only on the actual recessed parts of the eye socket. I use lots of light little layers to camouflage any tell tale signs of over indulgence! I don’t use any powder under the eye, but if it does look a little shiny, then a small amount of loose powder should be used here. For any blemishes try the Bobbi Brown foundation stick.

Brow gel is a quick and easy way to boost your brows, try Maybelline Brow drama, and then fill in with an eyeshadow if needed.

Obviously, the last thing you want to do is apply lots of eyeshadow, so choose something that is close to your natural skin tone. Groundwork by MAC in a cream eyeshadow does the trick, or just apply a mid-brown shade. This will cover any redness without being too heavy and you can use your fingers, so very easy! It also has a slight sheen for a bit of radiance. No7 Stay perfect smoothing eyeshadow in Nude is also lovely. Pop it in the corners of the eyes to brighten. Don’t use anything too dark.

Eye curlers are a must, these will open up your eyes prior to applying mascara. I like the Kevyn Aucoin or Shu Uemura ones. A little mascara goes a long way when you look and feel tired. I like Max Factor 2000 calorie mascara.

If your waterline is red apply a flesh toned eye pencil. Try Illamasqua’s eye colouring pencil in Vow.

To brighten and add radiance, use a cream blush on the apples of your cheeks, blended towards the hair line. Try Pink Lemonade by E.L.F, its very hydrating and soothing and gives a lovely healthy glow. You can even use this on your lips too or try Sisley Phyto-blush twist stick in Petal.

For lips, something quick and with a pop of colour to perk up your face. Try Benefit Ultra plush lipgloss in Dandelion or Delilah lip gloss in Modesty.

If you prefer lipstick, try Colour Intense cream lipstick by Delilah in Flirt.

Of course, failing all of this you could always crawl back to bed with a pot of Haagan Dazs ice cream! (a lot less hassle!)

I will be busy with weddings over Christmas and New Year. I travel all over the U.K and I can’t wait to be working in Liverpool and London on weddings in December. Next year looks to be another busy one too!

Please contact me as soon as you know your wedding date to avoid disappointment.

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Lila Doe

+123 456789111

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Gina Copper

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