So, what exactly is a “cut crease?” It’s the makeup technique of cutting across the crease of the eye with a sharp contrasting line and little to no blending.

While the cut crease is hardly a new thing, recent social media makeup darlings have cultivated this technique into a new art form. There are thousands of images online in every conceivable colour combo ranging from soft and demure to theatrical.

Since this is an advanced makeup technique that requires practice, we broke down the trend into 3 levels so, if you’re a novice, start with the first stage and build the intensity as you become more comfortable with the technique.

Stage 1—Natural Contour

1. Sweep a nude (or slightly lighter) cream shadow over your lid with your base shadow brush.
2. Press a flesh-toned powder shadow over the cream with your base shadow brush to set and allow a smooth blending surface.
3. Choose a matte shade that is slightly darker than your skin tone in grey, plum, peach, or warm brown. Dip the tips of your deluxe crease brush into shadow, tap off excess and sweep through your crease with the bristles angled upward. #ProTip: Apply with your eyes open–looking straight into the mirror so you can check the placement while applying.
4. If necessary use your deluxe crease brush to blend out the edges.
5. Apply a dark eyeliner, with a slight flick at the end, and mascara.

Stage 2—Classic Beauty

1. Follow steps 1-5 from Natural Contour (above). #ProTip: Adding a base coat of liner and mascara before cutting the crease, gives you a better idea of the overall look.
2. Select a matte shadow that’s a deeper shade of your crease colour for your “cut” colour. Take a small amount of shadow on the tips of your shading brush and smooth into the outside of crease with the bristles slanted up into the crease to blend, while laying down the sharp line. Use the flat side of the brush to lightly drag the shade upwards into the outer corner and taper down toward the center of eye.
3. To create a cleaner line, run the light shadow under the cut with a clean shading brush.
4. For extra pop, add a touch of shimmer shadow in the center of the lid.
5. Use your eyeliner brush and a gel liner to create a winged-out cat eye.
6. Apply a natural pair of false lashes to complete this classic look.

Stage 3 —Daring Diva

1. Step up the drama, follow the same technique as above, but increase the contrast and/or sharpen the line.
2. Swap out the nude base shade for a bold colour, bright white or a high glitter shadow.
3. Forget the blend! Run a dark shadow through the top of the eye socket with your shading brush. Take your base shade and apply directly below to sharpen the line.
4. Pop on a pair of ultra thick false lashes.
5. Finish the look by drawing a strong black liner along the top and bottom lash lines. Then bring the two lines together in an extended wing toward the outer brow.

So many of the new makeup trends look great in flash photography, but the layers of products look clownish when seen face-to-face. Fortunately, the new focused concealing technique allows you to highlight and perfect your complexion while maintaining a natural look.

The trick to this technique is to apply tiny amounts of concealer to precise areas of the face to highlight, conceal, define and brighten.

Here are 4 ways to benefit from focused concealing:

Spot Conceal

Whether you want to cover redness, blemishes or discolouration the concept is to keep the overall coverage as sheer as possible, then layer an opaque concealer only where needed. This is ideal for covering redness around the nose and mouth, where makeup comes off faster.

• Start with a lightweight foundation that suits your skin tone and apply over your face with a damp miracle complexion sponge. Lay down a light layer of concealer (that matches your skin tone) over the blemish with your 102 triangle concealer brush, then use your deluxe concealer brush to feather out the edges. Repeat until the area is thoroughly covered. Next, use your deluxe concealer brush to sweep a loose powder to blend and set for a seamless finish.
  
  

Define

Define brows, lips and winged eyeliner with a crisp line of concealer along the perimeter.

• Choose a concealer pencil a little lighter than your foundation shade and trace along the top of brows, the perimeter of lips or under winged liner. Use your accent brush to subtly blend into surrounding skin.

Highlight 

Instead of using an illuminating product, choose a liquid concealer a 1-2 shades lighter than your skin tone.

• Sweep a thin line over any area that you’d like to highlight–cupid’s bow, center of the nose, top of cheekbone–and use your essential crease brush to feather out the edges.
• #ProTip: To create the illusion of wider set eyes, apply concealer along the outer edge of brow tail.

Touch-up 

Lighten and lift where shadows naturally occur on your face throughout the day.

• For on-the-go usage, grab a concealer pen and brighten up your complexion throughout the day with a sweep or two of concealer to the inner eye area, the outside corners of the mouth, under the bottom lip, and around your nostrils. Use your essential crease brush to set and blend with sheer powder.

We love black winged out eyeliner–it’s as classic as a little black dress–but sometimes it’s fun to mix it up and throw in a little colour. Which is why, we’re getting into the summer spirit and showing you how to lighten up your eye makeup with a bright eyeliner.

Here are 4 ways to try this oh-so-perfect-for-summer look:

1. Add a little spark to your eyes with iridescent or metallic eye liner. Choose a long lasting formula and run over the base of the upper and lower lash lines (keep line thinner toward the inner eye). Use your smudge brush to “smudge” (short back and forth strokes without lifting up the brush) into the root of lashes. Add more liner and blend for more drama.
2. Pop your eye colour with a brilliant blue or green along the lower waterline. Brown eyes will stand out due to the colour contrast, while blue and green eyes will be enhanced by their complementary colours. #ProTip: Avoid using red, orange and plum tones that close to the eye as it can give you one sickly look.
3. Play up your eye shape with a layered liner. Run a dark gel liner over the top lash line with your eyeliner brush to define the eye, then layer a vivid liner like above with the side of your precision liner brush.
4. Keep the classic winged liner but swap out your black liner for an eye-catching shade like. 

Is your liner less than perfect? Dip your pointed liner brush into a makeup remover and clean-up blurry edges or imperfect flicks.  The brush is perfectly shaped to get into those tight spots, without disrupting the rest of your artwork.

(P.S. You can pick up our collector’s edition eyeliner set for all four of the brushes used above!)

Back in the olden days—you know, before the Internet—trend setting was the domain of the rich and famous. Now anyone with enough social media followers can become an influential tastemaker (we should know!).

One of the big Instagram trends we are enamored with this spring is the “oil-slick lip.” Inspired by the swirl of iridescent colors reflected when oil is layered over water, this lip look requires multiple coatings of creams and/or powders and high shine gloss.

Here are our tips, tricks and products tips for oil slick lips: 

Heavy Spill

A dark gray/black lip with shimmery green gold in the center of the lips.

• Layer a black lipstick over inner 2/3 of your lips and use your lip brush to blend toward the lip line for a precise application.
• To create that stunning 3D effect, layer 2 iridescent glosses onto lips.  To avoid transferring lipstick into your applicator, roll a dollop of gloss onto the back of your hand and use a detailer brush to apply over the lipstick. Experiment with the placement of gloss to for a variety of results. Concentrate gloss on the bottom lip or the center of lips, swipe one gloss first then layer the second on top.

Full Spectrum

An intense mix of blue, green and gold and purple that result in an iridescent rainbow.

• Start with deep blue lipstick all over the lip as a base.
• Choose a colourful palette eye shadow palette, then select which colour you want to be dominant (blue, green or purple). Use your shading brush to press the pigment evenly over the upper and lower lip. Next, add accent shades in small sections, wipe off excess pigment in between colours or use a clean shading brush.
• Finish with a layer of high shine gloss, using a clean lip brush.

Try one of these techniques and post on Instagram with the hashtag #MyRealTechnique. We can’t wait to see the results!

As we transition into warmer weather, we’d like to show you how to take a dramatic trend and lighten it up for everyday.  Beauty blogs and social media sites are filled with images of elaborate makeup applications, but it’s important to realise that these trends and techniques only work for the camera.  The same makeup application will look like costume makeup (because it is) when seen up close.

“Most people want to look like a nicely polished version of themselves” -Sam

Here are 3 trends to adjust for real life:

Eyebrows

Yes, overdrawn brows may be #onfleek, but they look cartoon-like in real life. It isn’t necessary to wear a full brow with most looks, so here are a few tips for keeping your brows looking #natural:

1. Chose a brow colour that is a little lighter or softer than your natural shade (except for those with blonde or gray brows).
2. Apply brow pencil or shadow with light feathery strokes in the direction of your hair. Do one area at a time, using your brow set spoolie to work product through brows after each pass.
3. Finish with a sweep of brow gel to set and bring back the texture to your brows.

Contour

Heavy contour can look transformative in flash photography, but ridiculous face-to-face. Create natural looking dimension in a few easy steps:

1. Choose a flat contour cream or powder that works for your skin tone. The shade should “sink” the area, not draw attention to it.
2. No harsh lines!  The contour should gradually fade into the surrounding area. For cheeks, blend out the edges with your sculpting brush or, for smaller areas, your concealer or deluxe crease brush.
3. Take a step back and look at your reflection from different angles (turn your head from side to side, check under your chin for tell-tale signs). And, when possible, double check blending near natural lighting.

Skin

Full-coverage foundation, “baked” with light powder, and multi-coloured correctors may look #fierce on Instagram, but the effect looks nothing like skin in-person. We’re all for coverage, but skin should look like, um…skin! Here are a few tips for achieving natural coverage:

1. Start with the sheerest coverage all over the face, then use a more opaque foundation or concealer over areas that need heavier coverage.
2. Apply powder with a setting brush to the areas that need to be set. Skip dry patches or uneven skin (deep creases, crepe-y skin) as it will accentuate the problem.

While the name may be confusing, sandbagging is a technique that’s been used by makeup artists (and drag queens!) for years. At first glance, the layer of powder looks just like “baking,” but the difference lies in the purpose. Baking creates a long-lasting matte surface, while sandbagging uses a dam of powder to maintain clean lines around the eyes and lips.

Note: While photographs of this trend may seem flawless, this is a high-coverage look that can accentuate fine lines and dry skin when face-to-face.

Under Eyes

• After you finish your eye makeup, slick a creamy concealer under your eyes and buff in with your deluxe crease brush.
• Dampen your miracle complexion sponge and pat a thick layer of translucent powder (or a coloured powder for a bit of highlight) on top of concealer, getting as close to the waterline as possible. Keep the majority of the “powder dam” directly under your lash line to avoid highlighting fine lines around the eyes.
• Wait a few minutes then dust excess powder away with your setting brush.

Around Lips

• After you apply your lip colour, outline the perimeter of your lip with your triangle concealer brush and a concealer.
• Use the edge of your damp miracle complexion sponge to press a thin layer of powder around the entire mouth. #ProTip: Press your lips together and tuck them inward (just enough to avoid smearing your lip colour), then press powder around the mouth.
• For extra coverage add a thicker layer under the bottom lip line. Keep powder to a minimum above the lip.
• Wait a few minutes then dust excess powder away with your setting brush.

The bride may be the star of the show, but being a bridesmaid is definitely a supporting role. Whether you’re doing your own makeup or hiring a pro, here are some tips and techniques to help you look great from the first Instagram pic through the last dance.

Working with a Pro

Having your makeup done can be a wonderful experience but it can also be a disappointment if you don’t know how to communicate with your makeup artist. A little preparation, positive attitude and patience will ensure that you are happy with the outcome.

• Show up on time and have an idea of what you want. Check in with your bride about the overall look, then search for makeup photos that you like and save them on your phone (red carpet looks are a great option).
• Come with brows groomed! The pro may take off a couple strays, but if you have unruly brows, it detracts from your eye makeup.
• Don’t be afraid to tell the artist what you like or don’t like. They can’t read your mind and true pros don’t take it personally.
• Bring several lip colour options and a pressed powder compact so you can touch-up hours after the makeup artist has left.

DIY Makeup

It’s a long day and you want your makeup to look nice face-to-face, but dramatic enough to photograph well. Looking good in photos doesn’t mean that you have to wear a ton of makeup, but you need to even out your complexion, add definition and brighten with colour.

• Skin. Choose foundation that has a matte or natural finish and work over your face with your expert face brush. Stay away from any formula with SPF or a dewy finish (they come off quickly and look shiny in photos). Add shine were you want with a highlighter.
• Definition. Groom brows 1-2 days before wedding and fill in with brow powder and your brow brush. Finish with a brow gel to set and bring back the texture of hair.
• Cheeks. Flash photography and outside lighting will wash you out, so sweep a pop of blush over the apples of your cheeks with your blush brush to brighten your skin and add dimension.
• Lips. Bring a bold colour, an everyday go-to colour and something in between. Stronger pops of colour will look gorgeous in photographs, but you can then switch to something more neutral when you’re at the reception. Don’t wear lip colour? Keep lips hydrated and add a sheer colour with a tinted lip balm.
• Touch up. Keep your T-zone shine free (especially before photos) with a pressed powder compact. For an instant boost after hours of prep and photos, carry a lightweight concealer. Dab a little under the eyes, over the brows, along the tops of cheekbones and blend with your concealer brush.

Regular exercise can do amazing things for your body, but those regular sweat sessions can also cause a host of skin issues. Acne, blackheads, milia and rosacea can all be exacerbated without a proper skin and makeup routine.

Check out these pre and post gym beauty tips to keep your skin healthy and looking great.

Pre Gym

Dermatologists agree that working out with a clean face is ideal, but when you’re pressed for time (or just can’t leave the house without a little makeup) ideal is not always an option.

Optimal: Remove all makeup and clean face with a gentle anti-bacterial cleanser to rid pores of bacteria and grime.

Pretty Good: Wear an oil-free bb cream or tinted moisturiser, or spot conceal with a sheer concealer. Limit eye makeup to waterproof mascara and brow products for a little definition.

Post Gym 

Optimal: Remove all makeup and wash face with a gentle anti-bacterial cleanser to rid pores of bacteria and grime.

Pretty Good: Remove makeup with a cleansing wipe and splash water over face to remove residue.

Post Gym Makeup Tips

Need an easy post gym makeup routine? Embrace the healthy flush of your workout and go from sweaty to healthy glow in these simple steps:

1. Cool. Sit down in a cool area for a few minutes or run cold water over the inside of your wrists to get your body temperature down. This will help your makeup stick, since sweaty skin doesn’t hold onto makeup.
2. Calm. Even out your skin with a few strokes of a foundation stick. Swipe foundation where needed and use small circular strokes with your contour brush to smooth over skin.
3. Accent. Enhance your glowing skin with a radiant powder duo. Use the same contour brush to apply the highlight along the tops of cheekbones and over eye lids.  Sweep the contour powder on and under the cheekbone, along the jaw line or temples.
4. Define. Add instant definition with a couple layers of mascara. #ProTip: Apply the mascara super-close to the lash line, shimmying it up against the skin to create a tight-lined look.
5. Brighten. Choose a sheer pop of colour that glides on easily and hydrates and soothes lips.

Every Real Techniques brush is color coded and labeled to serve as a guide for beginners, but that doesn’t mean the brushes are basic! Sam and Nic designed each brush to work in multiple areas of the face. The versatile design, paired with all-purpose taklon bristles (works with powder, cream and lotions) makes for a multitude of application options.

Here are a few of Sam + Nic’s favourite alternative techniques:

sculpting brush

Original: Apply a cream or powder contour under the cheekbones, jawline and temples.

Alter Ego: Buff on liquid foundation effortlessly with the dense, angled bristles.

deluxe crease brush

Original: Press powder or cream eye shadow over the lower eye lid, then blend out the edges.

Alter Ego: Evenly apply concealer under the eye (fits perfectly into the orbital bone) and around the nose bridge and nostrils.

202 angled liner

Original: Line eyes effortlessly with gel or powder eye liner.

Alter Ego: Fill in and shape eyebrows with a brow powder.

102 triangle concealer

Original: Use the flat side to smooth on concealer anywhere that you need more coverage.

Alter Ego: Flip brush and use the pointed triangle side to apply a color corrector under the eyes.

setting brush

Original: Sweep setting powder under the eye or apply a highlighter on the top of cheek bones and under brows.

Alter Ego: Press a powder eye shadow along the hairline to cover light or gray roots.

buffing brush

Original: Buff in moisturizer or primer over face for a smooth finish.

Alter Ego: Apply a self tanner along the face and neck with circular strokes.

Forget swimsuit season, if you’re like us you just want to show off your perfectly bronzed arms and legs without any of the all-too-real damaging effects.

Don’t sweat it! We have several strategies to get your skin looking summer ready in a snap.

Faux Glow
Regardless of skin tone, a little sunless tanner can make a big difference. Light skin will look healthy and toned, while darker complexions will appear deeper and flawless.

• Avoid a self tanning disaster and choose a product that builds color gradually over 3-5 applications. There is much less room for error.

FACE: Choose a product formulated for the more delicate skin on your face. Mix a couple drops into your moisturiser and work over face, neck and ears with your buffing brush. Apply daily or every other day to maintain a hint of colour.

BODY: Select a tan extender or daily glow product like and work over clean skin with your hands. Don’t forget to clean between fingers and palms after application. Apply once a day until desired shade is achieved, and then every 1-3 days to maintain colour. 

Even Skin

“My skin has no imperfections” – said no women ever. Whether its a bruise, acne, scratch, veins, scar, or hyper pigmentation you may want to minimize the blemish with body makeup. Professional artists have long been applying body makeup to perfect their client’s skin for photos and film, but for a coverage that looks natural to the naked eye, the key is to keep it sheer.

• Spot covering the problem area only can look obvious, so add a little product over the entire region (legs, arms, chest, back).
• Create your own body makeup with a foundation and a body moisturiser. Mix a dollop of body lotion with a drop or two of foundation and blend onto skin with your hands. Apply several lighter layers to ensure an even application. Allow legs to air dry for a few minutes before getting dressed.

Completely covering a tattoo or discolouration isn’t easy and it takes a lot of time to apply multiple layers. 

Radiant Sheen

Skin looking a bit flat or dry no matter how much moisturiser you apply? Get glowing with a spritz of body oil.

• Apply your body lotion as usual, then get dressed. Spritz a dry body oil evenly over exposed skin. Blend lightly with your fingers if needed and enjoy a healthy glow.

What is your secret to getting skin ready for summer?