The two biggest trends in men’s beauty according to a celebrity make-up artist

The idea of men sporting make-up isn’t a new concept; in fact it dates back to at least 3000BC, with Egyptian men wearing black kohl to protect themselves from the “evil eye”.

Embrace the in-store make-up experience and don’t be shy about asking for advice.Credit: Snapper Images

Skip ahead to the 15th century and King Edward IV and his male courtiers were rumoured to have worn rouge on their lips. In more recent decades, Elvis Presley, David Bowie and Johnny Depp have been poster boys for men wearing make-up. As beauty blogger Manny Gutierrez says, “I think boys deserve just as much cosmetic recognition.”

One of the best places to learn about make-up application is by watching YouTube tutorials – especially on how to blend tinted moisturiser, foundation and concealer. The No. 1 make-up goal for most men is to look as if they aren’t wearing any. The trick is to start out with light coverage and steer clear of the beard and sideburns, dabbing make-up on rather than dragging it across your face using your fingers, a brush or sponge.

Renowned make-up artist Max May says, “Most of my mates wear it, and it’s important. Two of the biggest trends are to not look tired and to have a tanned face – fake tan, of course.” May’s own routine is simple. “I use the Unisex Healthy Glow Tint by Charlotte Tilbury ($56) and Makeup For Ever HD Skin matte velvet compact powder ($72) on my nose, forehead and under my eyes. My eyebrows are literally white, so I use the Mecca Max brow gel ($18) to add definition to them.”

For a newcomer, according to May, it comes down to two simple products: a light-reflecting concealer to colour-correct and brighten the area around the eyes (try Tony & Munro or Stryx) and a tanning gel (May loves Tom Ford’s bronzing gel, $92). “Apply all over the face, neck, chest, even arms if need be, to give the skin a more all-over glow-up,” he explains.

As far as products that are specifically designed for men, British brand War Paint is a standout and great to experiment with. Embrace the in-store make-up experience and don’t be shy about asking for advice – the right colour match is vital. One more fun thing to try is nail polish. “It will always be a vibe for a dude in my eyes,” says May. Just think Harry Styles.

ASK STEPH

Is make-up primer necessary?

In a word, yes! Primer creates a smooth canvas for your foundation to set on, helping your face and eye make-up to last throughout the day. Just think of it as an undercoat. Try Laura Mercier Pure Canvas Primer – Illuminating ($78).

Follow Stephanie Darling on Instagram @mrssdarling. Send questions to [e-mail].

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