Pretty woman!

As the temperatures rise and the days get longer, a fresh wave of makeup trends is sweeping over the island, writes Julia Cassano. This summer, it’s all about radiant skin, vibrant colours and embracing your natural beauty, makeup artists in the kingdom attest.

Berry charming

Blush is having a major moment this season. From soft raspberry stains to peachy hues, sun-kissed cheeks will be the star of your summer makeup look.

For Bahraini makeup artist Sheetal Waya, a monochromatic blush and lip look is the move.

“Take a mousse (textured) liquid lipstick and apply two dots on the highest points of your cheek and blend with your fingers,” she recommended.

“You can also apply a bit of highlighter, mascara, bronzer and gloss and voila! You have your perfect everyday five-minute go-to-glow!”

Safe than sorry

A key step to good makeup is SPF and skincare - cleansing, toning and moisturising - more so in the summer when skin damage can be worse due to the sun’s harsh rays.

“Be sure to prep your skin with a high-quality face wash before applying any makeup products. Opt for a hydrating moisturiser as your skin might need more attention during the summer and SPF is a must,” Bahraini makeup artist Maysam Meer, who has been in the field for the last 10 years, highlighted.

Modern minimalism

A lightweight breathable base will help your skin breathe.

“A good-quality concealer will do twice the work by applying it under your eyes, brightening the high points of the face,” Sheetal said, adding that you can skip foundation altogether.

The creative who has been in the makeup business for the last 13 years also recommended investing in a compact translucent powder, stating that they are ideal for touch-ups because they do not add coverage but refresh your makeup.

Bold and beautiful

Even though a simple base is the go-to this summer, Sheetal recommends elevating your look with a bold eye. “It is a personal favourite of mine, as it draws the person’s attention to soft, sultry eyes, rather than any minor imperfections of the skin, and it only takes three products,” she said.

“Take a creamy eyeshadow stick in a gunmetal grey or cool-toned bronzy brown, and run the shadow all over your lid. To intensify the look take a deep brown gel liner and smudge at the base of your upper and lower lashes. Finally, take a creamy shimmer and pop it in the corner of your eyes, and you are ready to go!”