Monsoon makeup trends are eclectic: Shahnaz

Makeup and skincare guru Shahnaz Hussain

Monsoons can be a tricky time for skin care and make up. Humidity can make your make up literally melt. The skin too suffers problems due to this sudden change in the climate. So we got Makeup and skincare guru Shahnaz Hussain to solve basic monsoon skin problems and trends to try this season.  

What is the latest trend in eye makeup especially shadows?

Make-up trends for the coming seasons will give you a lot of freedom style-wise. It is will be a combination of the old and the new, the dramatic and the neutral look. The same goes for eye shadows. Dramatic and heavy eye make-up has been the trend for a while and has gained popularity. But, you can add your own touch with glittery highlights and eye shadows in natural tones to the smoky eyes look. The 60s look is also popular, with nude lips and cheeks, but winged eyeliner.

To get this look: Use dark shadow on the upper lids and even a bit beyond the crease. Shadow the lower lid slightly below the lower lashes. However, it is predicted that during coming months, the trend will move from traditional black to coloured eye shadows.

What all colours are in trend?

For a night party look gold, silver and bronze eye shadows and highlighters are in. Since, both black and coloured liners are becoming trendy, the same applies to  eye shadows. In fact, bold looks with bold colours will be popular this monsoon. For a bold look with bold contrasting colours try navy blue, purple and green, or pastel shades for the day.

How to apply eye shadows in monsoon?

Powder shadows are best during the monsoons. They are easier to apply and blend. Apply eyeshadow with a sponge tipped applicator and blend with a brush. You will need four shades of eye shadow to work with, from a neutral base colour, a main colour, a darker shade for emphasizing and a light colour for highlighting. Using finger tips, first apply foundation on the upper lid, working from the lash line and going towards the eyebrows. This helps the colour last. Once it is dry, apply a neutral colour base shadow over the entire area, using a large brush. Then, apply the main colour, using a medium brush or sponge tipped applicator. This should be applied only upto the crease. Blend well. Using a finer brush, apply the dark shadow in a thin line along the crease. The dark colour can be applied under the lower lashes too, using the fine brush. Start applying half way along the lower lash line and go outwards. Then apply the light shade just under the brows. A pearly shadow may be good, to add more emphasis to the area.

How to prevent eyelash fall in monsoons?

Eyelashes fall off naturally and are replaced with new lashes, the same way your hair do. However, during the monsoons, due to excessive sweating, fungal infections or styes, there may be more eyelashes fall. Sometimes, dandruff can spread to the eyebrows and eyelashes. If there is any such condition go to a dermatologist.

Removing make-up from eyes is an absolute must. The make up should be removed very gently. Apply a cleansing gel to dissolve the make-up and then wipe off gently with moist cotton wool. Never leave cream on the eyes all night. Remove make-up and creams before going to sleep. As during the monsoons the air humid and creams create a layer of moisture.

Keep the eyes clean by splashing with cool water. Try contrast washing i.e. wash with warm water, followed with a splash of cold water. This improves blood circulation to the eyes and prevents problems, like falling lashes, styes, etc in the monsoon season. It also cleanses the eyes and relieves congestion.