A makeup artist shared to millions by reality star Kylie Jenner has offered her top tips to ensure a flawless look ahead of Ladies Day.
The Grand National Festival has made its much anticipated return this year, with Ladies Day - a highlight for many fashion loving ticket holders - kicking off tomorrow, April 14. Many go all out for the glitzy event, with stylish outfits, elaborate hairstyles and flawless makeup in the spotlight all day long.
Ensuring the longevity of makeup is a balancing act, with many opting for professional help ahead of the big day. For those tackling their makeup at home, professional makeup artist Caitlin Hall shared her top tips with the ECHO.
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The 25-year-old was inundated with new Instagram followers after experimenting with Kylie Jenner's skincare line in a video, with the social media titan going on to share her footage to her 387 million followers. Caitlin "woke up the morning after to so many messages".
Speaking to the ECHO, Caitlin, from Sutton-in-Craven in North Yorkshire, said the secret to long-lasting makeup is "making sure you start with a well prepped base and applying thin layers of products at a time to ensure an even finish".
She continued: "Making sure you use products that are right for your client's skin type makes a huge difference. I always ask my clients what skin concerns they have and any sensitivities so I can make sure to personalise their skincare prep. I like to use a good eye cream, moisturiser and lip balm to make sure all areas are hydrated and ready for makeup."
Of her favourite products to help ensure makeup stays put all day, Caitlin said: "I really love the Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush pressed powders - Maybelline Fit Me are a great dupe for these if you want something more affordable. NARS foundations are amazing and come in so many shades and formulas, you can't go wrong.
"To avoid cakey makeup, I'd layer cream products with powders to get a more natural finish and only use extra coverage in areas that really need it, rather than the whole face. Creasing is completely normal and happens to anyone with movement of your face throughout the day, however, if you keep your product minimal in those areas and prep with good skincare, this is less likely to happen."
Cailtin, who has been doing professional makeup for around seven years, said: "I definitely think having your makeup done for an occasion makes you feel amazing but you can still achieve a flawless finish at home - it's just about taking time to perfect everything and using products that work well for you.
"My top tips for this would be to start with a really well prepped face by cleansing and hydrating, then apply products in thin layers using creams first to get a good blend and then setting with powders. [Make sure to] take your time when blending and use light pressure - using a heavy hand results in lifting or streaks.
"What works for someone might not work for everyone so it's important to find products that you really love and work well with on your own face. If you really struggle to do your own makeup, learn your own face - one-to-one lessons can be really helpful to get a better idea of where to start."
Caitlin got her start after getting her own makeup done professionally and falling in love with the experience. She's since gone on to work on models and photoshoots with huge brands like Pretty Little Thing, Missy Empire, and many more.
Now, she's more focused on bridal makeup - another occasion that requires long-wear makeup. Caitlin said: "I'm focusing more on bridal bookings right now and hopefully travelling more with work this year. I have some long term goals but that's my main focus right now.
"I absolutely love travelling and meeting new people. One of my favourite parts is getting to do wedding bookings - being a part of someone's wedding day is so special and I keep in touch with all of my clients still, which is lovely."
The Grand National 2023 is taking place from Thursday, April 13 until Saturday, April 15. It is held at Aintree racecourse. ECHO reporters will be at Aintree over the course of the festival to keep you updated on all the latest news from the event.
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