With two more Bank Holidays fast approaching, we have our (perfectly manicured) fingers and toes crossed for plenty of sunshine. Whether you’re panning a vacation or staycation - it’s probably time to peel away those Winter layers and enjoy a daily shot of vitamin D from the brightest object in our solar system - with SPF protection of course!
MK Pulse is a local magazine serving Milton Keynes
Pulse Beauty HQ
Here in Milton Keynes We have been busy bees over the last few weeks monitoring the current beauty trends so we can bring you all the latest news (hot off the press in some cases).
With two more Bank Holidays fast approaching, we have our (perfectly manicured) fingers and toes crossed for plenty of sunshine. Whether you’re panning a vacation or staycation - it’s probably time to peel away those Winter layers and enjoy a daily shot of vitamin D from the brightest object in our solar system - with SPF protection of course!
Enjoy reading our Bank Holiday beauty special and do get in touch with us on Twitter #MakeUpByGail #MKpulsemagazine.
TO TAN or NOT TO TAN?
As we move closer to the Summer months (it’s approaching 23 degrees as I write this), sleeves and hemlines are creeping upwards and our primary focus is on getting that natural sun-kissed glow. Even the most avid of sun worshippers are faking it these days to protect their skin against the ravages of ultra violet rays.
Whether you are rocking the deep bronzed goddess look à la Cheryl Cole or the subtle faux glow of Gwyneth Paltrow, I recommend a professional spray tan for ease and speed. The DIY route, if you haven’t done it before, is time intensive and can result in streaky patches - never a good look!.
The make-up artist’s super quick fix
If, like me, you have no time for salon visits and your pins haven’t seen the light of day since last year (!) ... try the make-up artist’s super quick fix - Sally Hansen’s Air-brush Legs Tan Glow (£10.99 Boots) which is a long-lasting makeup for legs that covers all sorts of imperfections, it won’t rub off on clothes and the result sare immediate!
Top Tip
There are so many bronzing powders on the market but for a natural look, stick with a matte bronzing powder
Gail recommends Vita Liberata’s Trystal™ Minerals Powder (£35, Boots). 
A world-first self-tanning bronzer, it combines a pure mineral bronze colour with long lasting self tanning results, giving a natural-looking medium tan that lasts for up to 5 days. It also comes with the most wonderful Kabuki application brush.
How to avoid the Tango’d look
Facial tanning remains popular with bronzing powders being one of our biggest selling beauty products. To achieve that all-natural glow, it must be applied in the correct places to avoid the tango’d or “dirty face” appearance!
Follow the figure of 3 rule below:
- On both sides of the face, apply the powder with a fluffy but firm large brush making the “3” shape
- Begin application on the forehead along the hair line.
- Follow along the hollow of the cheek and just under the jawline.
#PulseBeauty is loving... Spring 2015 Nail Trends from OPI
The Soft Shades Collection is about to launch in the UK and we are very excited. These sheer and subtle shades tint the nails with delicate colour giving an understated yet chic look. I predict this collection will be very popular for bridal manicures!
For the more adventurous, get into the tropical groove and say Aloha to the Hawaii Collection - 12 luscious muted and jewelled shades inspired by the Islands. Go with the Lava Flow (golden red) and My Gecko Does Tricks (pearly green)! Mini pack (4) (£14.50,John Lewis) www.opi.com
Top Tip
Effortless BankHoliday Glamour...
#TIP1 Cheeks - Use a cream highlighter (such as NARS Illuminator, £23) on the temples or cheekbones for a gorgeous J-Lo glow or mix a little with your liquid foundation.
Aside from writing and painting faces in my day job, I have recently been busy volunteering for Look Good Feel Better.
LGFB is the only international cancer support charity providing practical support for women and teenagers struggling with the visible side effects of cancer treatment.
LGFB has been supporting female cancer patients in Britain for over 20 years by holding free skincare & makeup workshops.
LGFB is the beauty and fragrance industry’s flagship charity and relies on generous product donations from cosmetics and fragrance companies. These products make up the fabulous gift bags which each lady receives as an attendee at the LGFB workshops.
If you are interested in becoming a beauty volunteer, contact LGFB on 01372 747 500 or register at www.lgfb.co.uk
Getting Married?
The wedding season is well and truly underway and if I had a pound for each time a bride asked “Will my makeup last all day & night?”, I would be able to retire! Wedding makeup is all about staying power and here are two of my heroes:
Laura Mercier Foundation Primer - Radiance(£29 John Lewis) Prep your skin for flawless makeup application. Creates a smooth, invisible layer that acts as a buffer between the skin and foundation.
Clinique Pore Refining Solutions Stay Matte Hydrator (£34 John Lewis) After mattifying instantly, this oil-free formula provides hydration while curbing excess oil and shine for 8 hours (even the T-zone stays matte).
Tried and Tested
Urban Decay All-Nighter Makeup Setting Spray (£21 Debenhams) Keeps your makeup looking “just-applied” for up to 16 hours without melting, fading or settling into fine lines
