Make-up solutions

Q. Red lipstick looks too strong on my face. Maybe I shouldn't wear it?
A. Everyone can wear red lipstick these days because there are so many available options. If you find that the intensity of any colour is too overpowering for you, try a sheer option. The colour is not opaque, so it looks far softer. Skip lipliner, as this can make colour look even stronger. If you don't want to use a specific colour but find it too intense, brush over it with a bit of Vaseline and then blot your lips gently on a tissue. This should lift off enough colour or repeat the process if you want it still lighter.

For more advice on wearing red lipstick click here.

Q. Cream blusher is so difficult to apply that I find myself sticking with my trusty powder version. Do you have any suggestions?
A. The secret to applying cream blusher so it looks natural is in the blending. Apply it directly on top of a creamy foundation (if you need to wear foundation) or onto moisturised skin. It will go blotchy and won't blend if you try to apply it over a powdery product. Smile and concentrate the colour on the apples of your cheeks (start off lightly, you can always apply more) and don't go too close to your nose. Then blend, blend and blend some more. There should be no visible lines, only a natural flush.

Q. The modern beehive looks feminine, but if I don't use a lot of product, it falls down, and if I do it looks hard.
A. Copying a hairstyle that you see in a magazine is sometimes not as easy as you think it will be – it is usually done by a hairdresser and might take a bit of practice. This said, mistakes works for this hairstyle. So rather than using too much product to start with, which you can't get out, rather go with more pins and clips. Don't worry of pieces fall down, that is what makes the style work. If you feel that too much has fallen down, just pin it back up – remember to take a few extra pins with you in your handbag.

Q. I have heard that if I have a problem skin, I should stay away from pinks and purples. Is this true?
A. This all depends on the extent of the problem. If you have a few spots, that can easily be covered, it shouldn't be a problem. However, if you have an infected skin condition and many inflamed spots, pink tends to draw attention to the problem. The same goes for a very flushed complexion. Rather tone down the pinkness by using earthy colours that have a peach undertone. Choose browns, taupes, golds, beiges and champagne. Also ensure that your make-up is non-comedogenic and oil-free. Remove it well every night, and be scrupulous about keeping your make-up applicators clean.

Q. I have tried using illuminating products, but they don't illuminate at all. Am I doing something wrong?
A. There may be two reasons you're not getting the effect you want. The first is that the illuminators you've used are light reflective, which means if you don't have bright light shining on you, they won't look like they're illuminating. They might also be only be visible in stronger light than that which is available where you are applying them. The second reason might be that you are using powder over the product. The illumination that comes from these products is very subtle, and powder can dull this sheen. Rather use powder only where you absolutely have to, and if you do, carry through with an illuminating one that will still give you the sheen, buy with control so that you won't look too shiny.

For more advice: Ask our Make-up expert