Quick fixes to refresh your makeup from day to night

Going from your desk to dinner? Fake a fresh application of makeup with these pro tips. Some strategically placed illuminator, a wash of metallic shadow or a slick of bold lipstick can instantly update your look. The best bit? It’s a cinch to do—no YouTube tutorial necessary.

Fake… Luminous Skin

Skin can be transformed fast with the right products. Well-hydrated skin looks instantly plumper and fresher, so if your skin needs help, massage in a facial oil before your moisturiser. You want it to feel slightly damp to the touch before you start putting on makeup. Highlighters and illuminators help to wake up the face, too, making dull skin look brighter. Dabbing a little on your cheekbones, the inner corner of your eyes and under your brow arch gives a lifting effect.

Tool kit:

ModelCo Luminosity Shimmer Whip; Elizabeth Arden Flawless Finish Correcting and Highlighting Perfector; The Body Shop Oils of Life Intensely Revitalising Facial Oil

Fake… Instant Glamour

A deep-toned red or berry shade lips help warm your complexion and make you look instantly polished. Balms, chubby lip pencils and glosses are all easy to apply and can be touched up in seconds. For lasting colour, the old-fashioned trick of blotting lips with a tissue between applications of lippie still works, ensuring it stays put beyond the first drink.

Tool kit:

Designer Brands Lip & Cheek Rouge in Desire; L’Oréal Paris Infallible Lip Gloss in Who’s The Boss; Max Factor Lipfinity Long Lasting Lipstick in So Luxuriant

Fake… Wide Awake Eyes

Don’t be afraid of colour – it’s all about wearing it in a flattering way. A soft wash of a jewel-toned shadow or glistening gold across the lids helps make your eyes look open and sparkling. Pairing a soft grey or neutral shadow with a brighter colour across your lash line gives a flick of colour that’s not too over the top. Or try swapping your black eyeliner pencil for an understated shade such as navy – draw a line across your upper lash line and softly blend.

Tool kit:

Clarins Ombre Iridescente in Aquatic Green; Covergirl Eye Shadow Quad in Breathtaking Blues; Australis Smokifeye Eyeliner Pencil

Image credits: Getty