All about eyes: The trends, treatments and tips to know right now
Aesthetically, they’re a fun part of the body to play with; just a flick of eyeliner or swipe of shadow can change your look - and mood - in an instant. And, with more time wearing face masks, they’re the most visible aspect on show.
But this delicate area requires specific care, and keeping on top of your eye health should be a priority, along with choosing the right mascara.
Check out these exciting trends, treatments and expert tips you’ll want to keep an eye on.
A little TLC
The skin surrounding the eyes is thin and easily damaged, and it is one of the first parts of the face to show signs of ageing.
Maintain bright, fresh eyes by drinking plenty of water and reducing your salt intake, says Ashleigh Scott, founder of The Facialist in TÄmaki Makaurau.
“Moisture in the skin is key for keeping the skin around the eyes plump,” explains Scott, who also recommends using a hydrating eye cream containing hyaluronic acid, such as Maaemo Hydra-Lift Eye Gel, $92.
“Use your ring fingers to gently tap or press your eye cream around the orbital bone,” suggests Scott. “You can also do light circular movements working from the centre of the eye out to help to drain excess fluid.”
Where puffiness is concerned, your kitchen holds the key to swift soothing. “Put two spoons in the freezer until chilled, then place them over the eyes to help de-puff. Another trick is to brew two green tea bags and pop them in the freezer. Lie back with them over your eyes for 10 minutes before doing your makeup. The caffeine and coolness are great for reducing puffiness.”
If dark circles are a regular occurrence, it’s a much trickier issue and there isn’t a tried and true permanent solution.
“Dark circles are typically a result of genetics, diet or internal wellbeing,” says Scott. Getting to the bottom of a health issue could help, but in the meantime, concealing and colour correcting is your best option to reduce the contrast and make the eyes appear brighter.
Magic Makeup
Freelance makeup artist Rae Sacha suggests using a beige or nude-toned pencil eyeliner along the lower waterline to make eyes look fresher in an instant. Her go-to is Mecca Max Eye Max Eyeliner Pencil in Wake Up Call, $16.
For products that sit on the lid, it helps to apply a base layer such as Nars Smudgeproof Eyeshadow Base, $42, to stop shadow and liner from slipping, absorbing or sinking into fine lines throughout the day.
“This formula works so well to prevent eyeshadow creasing and keep your eye makeup looking vibrant,” explains Sacha. To finish off your bright-eyed look, opt for a tubing mascara, which is smudge proof, waterproof and helps lashes look longer without being clumpy.
Try Kiwi brand Aleph’s Lift/Lengthen Mascara, $64, which is New Zealand's first natural, sustainable and 100 per cent microplastic-free mascara.
The best thing about makeup is the ability to experiment without commitment, so when the occasion calls for it, have fun with a little colour.
“I love incorporating minimal pops of colour and sheen this summer with a thin liquid liner in a pastel blue or green,” says Sacha. “It’s a modern take on the classic black liner.” For a more subtle, but still fun look, try a neutral metallic eyeshadow or liner across the lids.
“It creates a gorgeous sheen against dewy summer skin,” she explains.
Eyelash envy
Long, lush lashes are a symbol of femininity and youth (toddler lashes, anyone?) and with lash-enhancing products and salon treatments readily available, it's easier than ever to have enviable lashes 24/7 without being too high maintenance about it.
Growth serums such as Lashfridays Eyelash Serum, $60, and Flash Eyelash Serum, $64, can increase natural growth in as little as a few weeks, giving you longer and thicker lashes when applied daily. Book in for a lash tint if your lashes are fair, invest in an eyelash curler, and you may find there’s no need for mascara at all.
For four to eight weeks of curled and tinted lashes, treat yourself to an eyelash lift. A Yumi Lash Lift involves the application of a keratin protein and a glue made from sugar cane to set the lift, making your eyes appear bigger and your lashes longer.
After an initial period of 24 to 48 hours where it's advised not to get your lashes wet, you’re then able to swim, rub your eyes, sleep on your face and cleanse as normal without compromising the integrity of your new-look lashes. A Yumi Lash Lift costs about $130 and is available at spas and salons throughout the country.
For a more dramatic lash look, there’s always eyelash extensions. A set of semi-permanent falsies can start from about $75 and lasts four weeks or more when properly cared for. Read More…
