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Blazing Beauty Tips: face balm for (very) dry skin

6.4.2023

Translation: Eva Francis

Flaky, dry skin is the arch-enemy of any make-up. To ensure the latter prevails in a clash, you need a creamy secret weapon and the right hand-to-hand combat technique. I learned both from make-up artist Spencer.

Make-up artist Spencer, better known as Painted by Spencer, begins each of his spectacular make-up tutorials with a product that most of us would only use in the evening to remove our make-up: the Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm by Elemis. The make-up pro uses the cleanser religiously as a primer. In other words, he prepares his models’ skin for what’s to come – lots of make-up. Sounds like he’s got it backwards, but it makes sense if you use the right technique. Let me explain.

Face cleansers

Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm

Facial cleansing wipes, 100 ml

Dry skin makes make-up look patchy or even flaky, as it absorbs all the moisture from your foundation like a sponge. Therefore, well-hydrated, soft skin is the be-all and end-all of a fresh complexion. And that starts with correct cleansing.

Here’s how it works

Massage the rich balm into your skin thoroughly. You’ll notice that it immediately melts into oil in your warm fingers. Let the oil rest on your face for a few minutes, just like a mask. This step is important because it softens your skin. Then wet your fingers or spray some water on your face and continue massaging. This turns the oil into a kind of cleansing milk that gently cleanses your skin without drying it out. Now comes the trick.

Massage in first,
Source: Natalie Hemengül

then dab off gently. — Massage in first,
Source: Natalie Hemengül

Instead of ruthlessly washing the oil off your face as usual, dampen a face cloth with lukewarm water and gently wipe or dab the excess oil off your face. This will also remove any dead skin cells. The result? You’re left with soft, radiant skin covered in a light, nourishing film. If you like, you can now apply your regular moisturiser or sunscreen.

Please note: Before you try this technique for the first time on your wedding day, I recommend that you give it a try at home on a regular Sunday. This way, you can be sure that the balm is compatible with your foundation. If it isn’t, simply use the balm as a regular cleanser (morning and evening) and wash it off completely after cleansing.

About the product

Of course, you can use this technique with any cleansing balm. However, Spencer’s secret weapon is actually one of the richest products of its kind and unique in my repertoire. The manufacturer’s description as «moisturising» is a massive understatement. The balm contains various oils and its scent is designed to remind you of a spa. A hazelnut-sized amount is enough to pamper your entire face. A small face cloth is included in the delivery. Make sure to wash it before using it, or you’ll end up with lots of tiny white fibres stuck to your face.

Sometimes it’s the details that make or break a hairstyle or make-up look. In my Blazing Beauty Tips series, I share useful techniques with you that I’ve either learned through my own experience or copied from the pros.

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Natalie Hemengül

Senior Editor

Natalie.Hemenguel@digitecgalaxus.ch

As a massive Disney fan, I see the world through rose-tinted glasses. I worship series from the 90s and consider mermaids a religion. When I’m not dancing in glitter rain, I’m either hanging out at pyjama parties or sitting at my make-up table. P.S. I love you, bacon, garlic and onions.

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