Tips for defining brows and contouring for sensitive eyes and skin

The current trend for defined brows and contouring continues with many brands launching their own brow cosmetics and contouring kits.

Defining brows with eyebrow mascaras and eyebrow pencils remains popular, as strong brows can frame the face, open up the eye area and reduce the signs of tiredness. Build up the colour gradually, choosing a shade as close to your natural brows as possible. Start with a soft eye liner pencil, if you are not sure it’s for you. 

You can also try some simple contouring for yourself, using a highlighting powder, bronzer or dark blusher in the hollow of your cheeks, sides of the temples and down the sides of your nose. Then apply a lighter face powder on the forehead, nose and chin.

After concealer, a hypo-allergenic loose powder gently swirled over any shiny areas will balance out the skin tone and hide any imperfections. Some finishing powders even contain light reflecting particles, increasing the luminosity of the complexion and leaving a soft-focus veil on the skin.

For a polished finish, nickel-free eyeshadow brushes and foam applicators are available for sensitive eyes and skin. For a natural look, applying and blending with clean fingers is quick and easy. If you want to avoid eye shadow powders falling into your eyes, wet them first before applying for a stronger, longer lasting colour.

Nude, brown and peach shades continue to be popular for a no make-up daytime look with reds, blacks and darks preserved for an evening out.

Eye liner and mascara can be tricky to apply and take practice, start with natural browns or greys instead of black as mistakes are less likely to show. Experiment with eye liner pencils, liquids and felt pens to achieve the definition you need and finish with an eye-friendly volumising mascara to really make your eyes pop!