BEAUTY INSPIRATION

Get the red carpet look

28 November 2018

Name a famous face and it’s highly likely that talented make-up artist Naoko Scintu has made them look red-carpet ready. Her A-list clientele includes Victoria’s Secret models Karlie Kloss, Bella Hadid and Winnie Harlow as well as Hollywood actresses such as Lily James, Claudia Kim and Emily Ratajkowski. Naoko has also worked her make-up magic for top publications such as GQ, Vogue, Elle UK and Interview. Here, we asked her to reveal her top tips for a flawless party look this festive season.

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1. Prep your skin

The secret to any great make-up look is healthy skin as it’s the first thing people see, which means preparation is the most important part of your routine. My two secret weapons are retinol and hyaluronic acid (HA): retinol is an anti-ageing treatment and HA keeps your skin looking plump. Use them in addition to your regular products in the run-up to an event and apply before bedtime so they can really sink into the skin. If you’re suffering with any breakouts, try using a blemish-control product like a drying lotion or gel on the targeted area to help reduce redness.

2. Find time for the tub

Having a bath always feels like a luxury and it’s a great way to calm any pre-party nerves. Make time to have one before you start getting ready, adding magnesium flakes or essential oils to boost remineralisation and overall health.

3. Self-tan 

There are so many great fake-tanning products on the market now and it’s easy to apply them at home. I think it’s a really nice ritual to get into and will make you feel extra confident in whatever you’re wearing.

4. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate

I love facemasks, particularly sheet versions and highly recommend using one the night before your event to really hydrate the skin and get an instant glow. Foreo’s Luna devices are brilliant too if you want to splash out. Another great tip is using eye drops before you apply your make-up – this will brighten them and add that extra touch of sparkle. Finally, carry a mini moisture mist or spray in your handbag so you can spritz your face throughout the night to refresh your make-up.

5. Get the (full-body) glow

Highlighters are crucial to looking red-carpet ready – and they aren’t just for your face. To achieve full-body radiance, start by moisturising all skin that’s on show and then add highlighter to your collarbones, arms and legs. You can also repeat this technique with bronzer for a truly flawless finish.

6. Switch to powders

For nights out and events, I recommend using a powder blush and highlighter, rather than cream-based products. Powders tend to last longer throughout the evening so there’s less risk of them wearing off.

7. The lash effect

Waterproof mascaras are best for longevity; they’re smudge proof and your lashes won’t lose their shape after you’ve curled them, which can sometimes be the case with normal mascara. False lashes are a must for big events too. My favourite are Eylure’s 117s for a really fluffy, beautiful finish.

8. The perfect pout

A great tip for making your lipstick last is to lightly trace a translucent powder around the lip line first. Next, fill in the middle section with your chosen colour and then reapply the powder – that way you can be sure that it has staying power.

9. Dare to sparkle

If you really want to get into the party spirit, add some glitter to your look. You can do this by switching up your usual black eyeliner with a glitter version or adding some sparkle to your lips. Just keep it either-or: that’s my general rule for all make-up.

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Photography credit: Getty Images. The women pictured in these images are not affiliated with Next or the products featured within this article.