Healthy Holiday Makeup, Merry & Bright

‘Tis the season to be jolly.  But all of that action can leave us looking a little less-than come time for the big events.

Following is my favorite makeup look for this season, or anytime your face needs an energy boost.  If your routine has been derailed (and really, whose hasn’t this time of year?) these tips will help you fake it until you are back on track.

Concealer is always an important step in any makeup routine.  When I only have minutes, it’s concealer, eyeliner and mascara that make the cut.  Concealer really freshens up the face, hiding any redness, dark circles and blemishes.  The key is to go one shade lighter than your natural skin tone – too light and it is noticeable, too dark just looks weird.

Next, a bit of white eyeshadow.  I love SANTE Eyeshadow Stick in White along upper and lower lash lines, and on bottom rims of eyes.  This makes you look instantly more awake, and is much more subtle than the silvery 80’s version.

Now go over the white shadow on the upper lash line with a blue eyeliner.  Yes, you read that right, BLUE.  Like it or not blue is back, but the blue of the moment is muted and universally flattering.  I use SANTE Eyeliner Pencil in Metallic Blue , it gives a freshness to eyes.  But really, any blue you prefer will add a hint of brightness without looking over-done.  Be sure to blend the blue eyeliner slightly with fingertip or sponge end of pencil.  You can apply your usual brown or black eyeliner and mascara as you wish.

My last trick is to apply a skin highlighter.    The amazing RMS Beauty Living Lumizer lends natural-looking radiance.  Apply to apples of cheeks, bridge of nose, and inner and outer corners of eyes.  Remember, a little dab of this goes a long way.  Follow up by with blush.

Swipe on your favorite lipgloss and now your face is ready to go.  Whether you are or not…

[Image by Colton’sPhotography at Flickr.com, Creative Commons license]