Allison Boyle, originally a hairdresser and now make-up artist extraordinaire

Check out Allison Boyle's picks to splurge - and save - on make-up, and her words of wisdom below.



Which brushes are essential?
“Foundation, concealer, powder, blush and an eyeshadow blender, plus a lip brush if you use darker shades of lipstick,” says Boyle. “I Nuovi does great brushes ( www.inuovi.com ); Manicare has a nice foundation brush ( www.manicare.com.au ), and The Body Shop has a good selection ( www.thebodyshop.com.au ).”

How do I create the perfect smoky eye?
“Apply a cream shadow in a deep colour to the lid and under the eye using a flat brush,” Boyle says. “For a sexy look, use black eyeliner on the inside rim and finish with a couple of coats of mascara.”

What should I use to clean my brushes?
“Shampoo is great for natural bristle brushes,” Boyle says. “Treat them with love and try to wash them once a week, giving them a light clean on a baby wipe in between. Synthetic brushes, however, need a stronger cleanser, as you usually use them for cream formulations like foundation and cream blushes. I tend to go for dish-washing liquid; it’s the only way to get them clean. Wash synthetic brushes more often than natural ones.”

Can I use one concealer on my whole face, including under my eyes?
“It all depends on your under-eye colour,” says Boyle. “If you have dark circles that need camouflaging, use a colour-corrective or light-reflecting concealer to brighten the area. For the rest of the face, use the same colour as your foundation, but a heavier consistency. But don’t use a light-reflecting concealer on a pimple – that will draw attention to the spot.”

 Excerpt from Cosmopolitan Hair and Beauty Issue 7 - on sale now! To purchase a copy, click here.

Red Lips,Skincare Expert, Neon Trend, Winged Eyeliner, Body Goddess, Sexy Curls, Big Night Out, Short Haircuts