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Genus Ng - resident trainer M.A.C Hong Kong

Make-up tips for Asian women

How-to-make-up lesson for Asian women by Genus Ng, resident trainer M.A.C Hong Kong

We all want a healthy, fresh and even complexion, but there are very few of us who are blessed by a naturally flawless skin. In this case make-up comes to help us. Through the use of the right products, and their proper use, we can easily correct imperfections and enhance our complexion.

We talked with Genus Ng, M.A.C resident trainer in Hong Kong, about the products and techniques to create a flawless skin. In this interview Genus explains us - step by step - how to create a perfect, flawless, enviable and (almost) perfect skin:

Step 1: Know your skin
First of all, it is very important to know your skin. Define your skin type and find the suitable skincare product. The better your skin looks (the base), the easier it will be to make it appear really flawless.

Step 2: Use a primer
Do not apply the foundation immediately to your skin, but use a primer underneath. It calms and soothes the skin, blots away excess oil, evens out skin redness and improves the lay down and application of the foundation.

M.A.C Mineralize Satinfinish SPF 15 Foundation

The primer can be applied using your fingertips but for a more precise and professional result I recommend to use a brush. I personally like to use the M.A.C 190 Foundation Brush, a firm synthetic brush with a large and dense shape.

The primer does not have to penetrate the skin (as a skin care product does) but remains on the surface, thus forming the perfect base for foundation.

Step 3: Choose the right foundation (texture)
Foundation comes in many formulations: liquid, compact, creamy, mineral powder. Choosing the right texture is imperative for creating a flawless skin. What texture you use depends of your skin type, and the make-up look and purpose you have in mind. If you have a dry skin a fluid foundation is indicated. I personally like M.A.C Mineralize Satinfinish SPF 15 Foundation (I use it myself).

This foundation contains micro-minerals and illuminates the complexion with a smooth satin finish. If you go out at night, you might want a higher coverage, such as M.A.C Studio Tech (high coverage and mat finish).

Again, the type of coverage you use always depends on your skin type and on the purpose.

Step 4: Choose the right foundation (color)
As we have slightly different tones in our face, I always advice to do the 'swatch test'. Choose three colors close to your skin tone and apply them on your skin. The first and lightest tone must be close to the color of the lightest area of your skin which is just above the jaw line. The medium color is the color which is the most equal to your complexion. The third color is based on the skin color of your neck. Apply the three tones one by one and choose the color you like the best.

Step 5: Use a brush to apply the foundation
The best way to apply foundation is to use a brush. The foundation looks perfect when using a brush. Start with the forehead. Apply the foundation with long horizontal movements and blend it out. On the cheeks, nose and chin we make vertical movements. Use a smaller brush for the edges around nose and eyes.

Step 6: Set your foundation with powder
Powder sets the foundation and makes it last longer. You can choose between loose powder and pressed powder. The result is quite the same, the difference lies in the texture. In general we use loose powder (which is also easier to handle for beginners) but pressed powder is great for touch ups throughout the day.

Thanks to Genus Ng, M.A.C Resident Trainer in Hong Kong

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