Discover our expert make-up tips for special occasions

Weddings, festivals, parties, and proms – the summer social is upon us and it’s as exciting as it is exhausting. Fixing your face for these occasions is tricky, you want make-up that will look great in photos but not look too much in real life and products that will last for hours on end how ever much fun your having.

Prep

If your skin is dehydrated, then your foundation may end up patchy as your skin will absorb moisture wherever it can. Consider a sheet mask to add extra plumpness and look out for light gel textured moisturisers to handle the heat. Also seek out added ingredients such as hyaluronic acid that attract water or peptides that help smooth the skin’s surface.

CHARLOTTE TILBURY
Instant Magic Facial Dry Sheet Mask 
£18

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CLINIQUE
Dramatically Different Moisturising Gel 
£35

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CAUDALIE
Vinosource-Hydra Grape Water Gel Moisturiser 50ml 
£29

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REN 
Radiance Glow Daily Vitamin C Gel Cream 50ml 
£42

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Prime and Protect

If you’re likely to be outdoors always use a high factor SPF at least 50 but be careful as they can cause flashback in photos. Seek out one which provides a physical barrier to prevent this happening. Choose a primer that will help achieve a smooth surface for foundation but will also increase its wear.

GROWN ALCHEMIST
Anti-Pollution Primer 50ml
£33

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ESTEE LAUDER
Double Wear Flawless Hydrating Primer SPF 45 30ml 
£31

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BOBBI BROWN
Intensive Serum Radiance Primer SPF 25 
£40

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DERMALOGICA
Prisma Protect SPF 30 50ml 
£65

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Good Foundations

Whilst too much luminosity in a foundation can make you look shiny, going totally matt can make your skin look flat. A good choice is a dewy finish with enough coverage to banish unwanted redness and hide blemishes. The correct tools are important, apply with a brush, blending carefully and finish with a sponge to get an even buildable application.

YSL 
All in One Glow Foundation 
£36

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MAC 
Studio Radiance Face & Body Radiant Sheer Foundation 50ml 
£32

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LAURA MERCIER
Luminous Foundation Flawless Finish Sponge 
£18

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NARS 
Natural Radiant Longwear Foundation
£39

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Prices checked as of 14 September 2023