Ah, blusher - the most underrated makeup product ever! The one product that can instantly make

you look alive, even when you look more like Lily Munster.

I always say, blush is crucial to lift and wake up your face. It adds that healthy, natural flush we all

crave, but have you ever wondered how we got here? from pinching our cheeks to dabbling on

blush with funny names, like Tickled Pink, (or the iconic NARS Orgasm).

Blusher, (or rouge as it was once known), has been around for thousands of years. Ancient

Egyptians tinted their cheeks with crushed red ochre, (the same pigment used in cave paintings!)

The Greeks and Romans then used fruit or wine to stain their skin.

In the 18th century blush was the most important aspect of makeup. It was considered sensual and

was made with carmine, (crushed insects), red lead or mercury, (both highly toxic).

https://artuk.org/discover/stories/beyond-the-pale-blushing-and-whiteness-in-eighteenth-century-portraits-of-women

Historically it was the source for the vibrant red pigment called Vermillion which was very fashionable

and worn on lips too. Blusher symbolised wealth and vitality. Men wore it too, (often more lavishly than

women).

A dramatic change happened in Victorian times. Makeup was deemed scandalous, so women

resorted to secret DIY tints made from beetroot or fruit, they also got creative by pinching their

cheeks to look naturally flushed and biting their lips for more colour. Queen Victoria condemned

makeup as vulgar for respectable women, so this led to the more natural looks.

Thankfully today, there is more freedom to express individuality and no-one has to risk their life

and lungs for a healthy flush! I believe blusher keeps us human, bringing softness, warmth…and

life!

The trick is to apply it where you naturally flush. Think upper apples of the cheeks and blend out

towards the hairline. Cream or liquid blush tends to be the most flattering as they are hydrating on

mature skin, melting seamlessly without sitting in fine lines. Cream or gel to powder are hybrid

formulas that offers the staying power of a powder with a texture that sits well on the skin. Avoid

shimmer as it can enhance pores or lines, (although if finely milled, it can be beautiful).

Choose a brighter shade than usual, as this will look more natural once it is buffed into the skin.

So next time you reach for your blusher, remember you’re part of a beauty ritual thats been around

for over 6,000 years! Its always been about bringing life back to the face and for anyone over 40, it

is the fastest way to restore that youthful radiance - without resorting to filters, (plus using my new

TLC Facial oil will help too! Available via my Online store - https://tinabrocklebank.co.uk/online-store/)

My top 5 favourite recommendations for this month are -

Charlotte Tilbury Beautiful skin Island Glow lip and cheek, (cream) in Pinched cheeks, (£30)

https://www.charlottetilbury.com/uk/product/beautiful-skin-lip-cheek-glow-pinched

Armani Luminous Silk Cheek tint, (liquid) in Vivid coral, (£37) - My personal favourite - https://www.armanibeauty.co.uk/makeup/face/blush-bronzer/luminous-silk-cheek-tint/ww-00852-arm.html?dwvar_ww-00852-arm_color=31%20VIVID%20CORAL

Glossier Cloud Paint, (gel) in Eve, (£24)

https://uk.glossier.com/products/cloud-paint?srsltid=AfmBOoo6CwSSQEmbu-fSymq-mD5DKSrOnRynGgN7lgBGAw8uCDuPGBCf&variant=54883318432122

Hourglass Ambient Lighting blush in Diffused heat, (powder), (£46)

https://www.hourglasscosmetics.co.uk/products/ambient-lighting-blush?srsltid=AfmBOorVp_WpTqKmU6uW5I_IVCygD3JriEnmVaCfL06jP7hjmVKQgl-7

ILIA Soft focus Blurring blush in Sensation, (powder), (£32)

https://iliabeauty.com/en-gb/products/soft-focus-blurring-powder-blush?variant=41219323822160

Keep up to date with me on my Instagram @tinabrocklebankmakeup and my Facebook page Tina Brocklebank Make-up artist.

Bye for now!

Tina x

You can read Lincolnshire Pride online via - https://www.pridemagazines.co.uk/lincolnshire/view-magazines The above article was published in the February 2026 edition.

New for January 2026 • Confidence boosting makeup lessons for any age •

As a loyal subscriber, you are the first to know about my new Make-up lessons for the New Year!

Choose from a 2 hour or 3 hour appointment -

Edit and refresh • 1 person @ my studio • Up to 2 hours • 1 look • Edit your existing makeup products, simplify and refresh your look with the latest products and techniques • £300 (Includes In-depth Skincare advice and feedback, skincare guide and application, makeup application which includes you practising under Tina's guidance, a Makeup workbook and guide to take home, personalised product list and a before and after photo).

Luxury Make-up masterclass at my studio • 1 person @ my studio • 3 hours • Edit your existing makeup products, simplify and refresh your look with the latest products and techniques • 2 makeup looks tailored for you and your life • £450 (Includes In-depth Skincare advice and feedback skincare guide and application, makeup application which includes you practising under Tina's guidance, a Makeup workbook and guide to take home, personalised product list and a before and after photo).

Book now to reserve your slot by emailing me - tina@tinabrocklebank.co.uk

Come and learn how simple makeup is beautiful makeup and how to be your own Make-up artist, taught by one of the industry's leading, most experienced Make-up artists in the U.K.

I look forward to hearing from you!

Love,

Tina x

P.S - My newly launched TLC, (Tina Loving Care) Organic Super Nutrient Facial Elixir is available via my Studio Online store - https://tinabrocklebank.co.uk/product/tlc-tina-loving-care-organic-super-nutrient-facial-elixir-50-ml/ which I lovingly make myself! Suitable for all skin types and a miracle for your skin to nourish, restore and elevate your skin to achieve a beautiful glow.

Have a wonderful Christmas and New Year x

There’s something about December that invites a little more sparkle into our lives. The calendar

fills up with gatherings, the sequins come out of hibernation, and suddenly makeup feels less about

routine and more about celebration.

Party season is the perfect excuse to add glamour, but in a way that feels chic, flattering and grown

up.

Lets be honest, it isn’t about replicating what we did, (or didn’t do even) in our twenties. Back then

we could get away with a dusting of this and a dab of that, (and no coat on a freezing night out and

live to tell the tale!)

Today, it’s all about sophistication with impact, makeup that flatters, products that last (and

techniques that are not too complicated!)

Here’s how to achieve a simple but polished party look, with just the right amount of sparkle -

Perfect canvas

Skin preparation plus the right texture foundation is key to beautiful makeup. Layer your skin prep

and foundation textures for a lasting and natural finish to enhance the rest of your makeup. Even

out any redness with a yellow-based foundation and conceal under the eyes with one shade lighter

than your foundation. Stop any shine by applying a pressed powder just down the t-zone. You want

to stop any shine, but keep the glow.

For a seamless and fresh complexion try Jones Road What the foundation, (£44) available to purchase from Liberty London or Jones Road Beauty - https://www.jonesroadbeauty.com/products/what-the-foundation?country=GB

The eyes have it

Swap chunky glitter for refined shimmer. A cream or satin finish eyeshadow in champagne, bronze

or soft pewter gives the eyes luminosity without emphasising fine lines. If you want extra drama, a

sweep of deeper shadow on the outer corners creates instant definition and lift, (just remember to

blend well). And for more glamour? apply a half strip of false eyelashes on the outer corners,

without having to fiddle about with a full set.

For a touch of sparkle that lasts without creasing try RMS Beauty eyesights cream eyeshadow, (£29)

Available to purchase from https://www.google.com/aclk?sa=L&ai=DChsSEwj-2Pex4_GQAxVNgFAGHScZBMcYACICCAEQCRoCZGc&co=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI_tj3sePxkAMVTYBQBh0nGQTHEAAYASAAEgKXdPD_BwE&sig=AOD64_3I9W4h2gOcVL50cJBLz81bCCai7w&q&adurl&ved=2ahUKEwjxmPKx4_GQAxWqUUEAHfOFKvoQ0Qx6BAgLEAE

Statement lips, simplified

Few things feel as instantly festive as a bold lip, especially in a classic red or berry. The secret to

staying powder is preparation. Smooth the lips with a little balm, blot, then line and fill in the lips

with a lip pencil before applying lipstick. This prevents feathering and means your colour will

outlast the canapés. You can even apply a nude lip pencil here for ease.

If bold lips feel daunting don’t dismiss them. Pairing a matte, strong lip with minimal makeup

creates a polished balance and you may be surprised by how chic and modern it looks. You can

even mix a bold lip colour with your lip balm for a more sheer finish.

Try Delilah cosmetics Colour Intense cream lipstick in Floozy, (£27.50) with their Pout lip liner,

(£22.50) Available to purchase from https://delilahcosmetics.com/products/colour-intense-cream-lipstick?variant=32320804126816&country=GB&currency=GBP&utm_medium=product_sync&utm_source=google&utm_content=sag_organic&utm_campaign=sag_organic&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22298025338&gbraid=0AAAAADpZ5BBViNVFRG0t3ai_KXpZlSLqx&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIsZzq7-PxkAMVIZxQBh3fHijNEAQYASABEgJ2ffD_BwE

Radiance, not shine

Highlighter can be beautiful, but restraint is key. Rather than sweeping it across the entire

cheekbone, apply just a touch to the highest points of the face. Think tops of the cheekbones, the

bridge of the nose, (not the tip, as this has Tin Man vibes), and a whisper on the Cupid’s bow. This

creates a glow without veering into full disco-ball territory.

Try a couple of drops my new TLC (Tina Loving Care) Organic Super Nutrient Facial Elixir, (£35) available via my Online store - https://tinabrocklebank.co.uk/online-store/ or this can be mixed with a couple of drops of your usual cream highlighter.

A flush of Festivity

Using a cream blush in a rosy or coral tone brings warmth and vitality to the complexion, keeping

skin looking fresh and lively throughout the evening. This is really one of the most underrated

products. Apply lightly and blend upwards towards the hairline for a natural lift. You can even pat

your lipstick and then apply onto the apples of your cheeks for a pop of colour that unifies

everything. Try Bisou blush from Violette-PR (£37) available from - https://www.violettefr.com/cdn/shop/files/VFR_BISOU_BLUSH_MARYAM_PDP_1500x1872_1.jpg?v=1741031714&width=823

The finishing touch

A fine mist of setting spray is your best ally during party season. It locks in your makeup so you

can raise a glass, dance and laugh without worrying that your carefully applied makeup is doing a

Cinderella and slipping away before midnight. To prime and waterproof your makeup, try Charlotte

Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Setting spray, (£32).

This December, think of makeup as the finishing detail to your festive look, not a mask, but an

enhancement. The best party makeup doesn’t just make you look radiant, it makes you feel

confident, comfortable and ready to enjoy every moment. Wasn’t it the great Karl Lagerfeld that

once said, “Trendy is the last stage before tacky”!? Remember, less is more.

Beauty at this stage in life isn’t about turning back the clock, its about stepping in the room with

poise, polish and just a touch of sparkle.

Thank you for subscribing to and reading my blog and I wish you all a wonderful Christmas and a very Happy New Year. I look forward to catching up next year with more makeup tips and recommendations.

Love,

Tina x

www.tinabrocklebank.co.uk

Hello fellow makeup and beauty lovers, thank you for subscribing to my newsletter.

Since my last newsletter I have been updating my kit and working with lots of ladies wanting makeup lessons and special occasion makeup which I have been loving and getting lots of positive feedback via my Google reviews - https://share.google/Xxe8PrCqFjvmhJmOo

I have also been busy writing my monthly column for The Lincolnshire Pride magazine, for which I am the new Beauty editor. We write about 3 months in advance! so I have just submitted my December column which is all about achieving that polished Party makeup, in a very simple and elegant way. There is also lots of product recommendations and tips on there too. You can read this for free online via https://www.pridemagazines.co.uk/lincolnshire/view-magazines?magazine=September-2025 (September is the one currently up). There are around 24,000 online readers per month currently!

I recently did the beautiful Tilly's makeup for her brother's wedding here in Lincolnshire. I last saw Tilly over 10 years ago, (she has since moved to Scotland, so it was so great to see her again, she is so stunning). She was a pleasure to work with.

I was recently sent some new products from Lancome, as I am renewing my foundations and concealers in my pro kit. I have used Bobbi Brown for nearly 30 years! and still love the brand, (but not as much as when Bobbi was with them. She now has her own brand called Jones Road, and it is excellent. I have lots of Jones Road in my studio and kit).

These new foundations are epic! They are quite similar to the Long wear Bobbi Brown foundations as they are oil free, (so great for a special occasion if you want your makeup to last and you are not a big fan of the dewy look). They are medium to full coverage and buildable. Very natural looking too. The concealers are just as nice and you only need a tiny amount. A little goes a very long way. To prevent any creasing under the eyes, a good tip is to apply an eye primer over your whole eye area and then with what is left on your ring finger, dab a little underneath the eye area, ensuring it is blended in. Then apply a little bit of concealer and blend again. This will ensure it keeps those pesky creases away. Make sure you don't apply too much concealer, as the more you apply the more risk you run of it creasing.

I am a big fan of Max Factor, (especially their mascaras), so was chuffed when they sent me their new Long lash era 2000 calorie mascara. I think it's basically the same as the previous 2000 calorie mascara, just different packaging?! but it's a great, affordable, thickening and lengthening mascara that doesn't budge - https://www.boots.com/max-factor-2000-calorie-long-lash-era-mascara-10372414?traffic=paid.shopping&gclsrc=aw.ds&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=19973637790&gbraid=0AAAAA-AdmwSJzGZLfMrHlgGtZX8G9P1X3&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI4JP74O_BjwMVK4tQBh3UwCIMEAQYASABEgIbzvD_BwE

Above - me in my studio.

I recently worked with the gorgeous Julie, who wanted to be shown how to apply makeup and to define her eyes, as she wears glasses - she loved the result...

...as you can see, I evened out her skin, defined her eyes and added a pop of colour. She was so chuffed with the result and she bought my Luxury brush set too, which will help her too!

Above - my everyday makeup items that I am currently loving. The Lancome Skin Idole 3 serum supertint is so gorgeous, it evens out the skin and is quite light, I also think it adds a lot of luminosity to the skin, great for dry/mature skins - https://www.lancome.co.uk/makeup/face/foundation/skin-idole-3-serum-supertint/01172-LAC.html

Pressed powder from ByTerry - its Hyaluronic so doesn't end up making your skin look too matte, it's such a gorgeous face powder, I only use a tiny bit down my t-zone, to stop any shine - https://www.byterry.com/products/8ha-hyaluronic-pressed-hydra-powder

The Beauty Pie violet corrector - I use this if I am a bit dark under my eyes, it brightens the area and then I add a bit more of the Supertint on the top - https://www.beautypie.com/products/superluminous-violet-brightening-booster?srsltid=AfmBOooDIbVRG4PuNs3XbcLQqdtXkyHHLX6EebBwC4uM4I3Puy7XdJ1-

Another Beauty Pie firm fave of mine is their Wrapstar Tubing mascara - no panda eyes here!! It's an amazing mascara. It wraps each lash with a tube and then sets and does not budge until you remove with warm water, you will see little clumps coming off in the sink, it saves you from rubbing your eyes or using any eye makeup remover. Very gentle.

Pencil wise, (along my top lash line) I am loving the Lisa Eldridge eye pencil in Ground coffee https://www.lisaeldridge.com/products/ground-coffee-seamless-glide-eye-pencil it applies like a dream, not dry at all, and you can smudge it a bit before it dries down, it doesn't budge at all. Great for tightening too. I also love her Pinpoint concealer, if I have any red areas or blemishes I want to cover - https://www.lisaeldridge.com/products/pinpoint-concealer-micro-correcting-pencil-shade-no-3

I was sent the Trinny London Miracle halo and it reminds me of the Becca Shimmering skin perfector, (if you are familiar with that? although it is discontinued now). This is a lovely highlighter, very natural. You can wear it alone or mixed with moisturiser/foundation for a glow, or use on the top of your cheekbones, or high points of your face for a beautiful highlight, very soft and subtle - https://trinnylondon.com/uk/products/miracle-halo

I also recently visited the lovely Maggie Hunt when I went to visit my daughter in London. (Maggie kindly helped me produce my brush collections). I used to follow Maggie's work in the 90's when I used to read Vogue, Elle and all of the glossies. She has worked with Princess Diana and David Bowie, (the list is endless!) I was honoured to spend time with her and have lunch with her, a real treat. I am a huge fan of her beautiful work.

I also tried out the new RUM mascara, (a collab by beauty industry veterans, Samantha Chapman Andrews, Sali Hughes and brand strategist, Jo Jones). They created the mascara to address their own frustrations with existing mascaras, aiming to develop a perfect, non-smudging tubing mascara that delivers volume and length - and they have definitely delivered on this, so well done ladies!

Anyway, enough for now. I hope you have all had a nice Summer. I honestly can't believe Autumn is here already! this year has whizzed by.

I shall be offering a 10% discount to all of my subscribers/followers if you book a 1-1 Makeup lesson with me, from the 1st of October until the 15th of December 2025. Early booking is advisable, as I do get booked up very quickly and there will be limited availability, so ssssh don't tell everyone!! I hope to hear from you soon!

Thank you for reading,

Love, Tina x

As a Beauty expert and Make-up artist of over 30+ years, I am passionate about not only my own skin, but my clients skin too. I am forever on the lookout for brands and products that work, (instead of all "fur coat and no knickers" type thing!). Trinny London https://trinnylondon.com/uk/ certainly fits the bill in my opinion - (as in a full fur coat and mahoosive knickers!)

I tried Trinny London quite a few years ago now and have used it in my pro kit and also on myself. The first product I purchased from them was their BFF cream, (£41). I was instantly pleased and often use this on myself and my clients too. I love natural, healthy looking skin. This is a "skin perfector" and gives your skin a lovely glow but not too shiny, just healthy looking with a bit of coverage. It's really good for good skin days or minimal makeup days. It is white initially when you squeeze it out of the pump but then adapts to your skin tone when you apply and blend it. It reduces any redness you may have too. It has an SPF30 in but I personally prefer to always use a dedicated SPF prior to using. My shade is Light-Medium. There are 5 shades. It has porcelain flower in which is a powerful antioxidant and this is what helps achieve that healthy glow. You just apply 1-2 pumps and blend with your fingers, (or brush if you prefer). This tube should last you about 3 months if you use it daily - https://trinnylondon.com/uk/products/bff-cream Its really nice for a light, sheer and easy summer look.

BFF All day foundation, £41 - I was actually sent this from the brand and it really is lovely, (I am not just saying that, it really is!) It has medium coverage and isn't a white cream, (like the BFF), it has more pigment in it. Trinny London do have a Match2me service online for help with choosing a shade). Great for all skin types and is buildable, if you need more coverage. It is a very natural foundation, (which I love), and isn't too matte but not too dewy either. There are 18 shades. I found it lasted all day and it did not crease or cake at all. It has pro-ceramide in which helps to smooth skin and also vitamin B3 in to help with fine lines, (think scaffolding for your face!) - https://trinnylondon.com/uk/products/bff-all-day

Serum - concealer, BFF eye - £29. I actually bought this product quite a while ago and had forgot about it, as I wasn't initially blown away. However, after trying it again it is actually quite nice. I think perhaps I hadn't given it a chance. It doesn't settle into fine lines at all. It is a nice, creamy texture and evens out any darkness under the eye area. It has a cooling tip applicator and has a duo peptide complex in to help firm and tone. It also includes hyaluronic acid to hydrate the skin and vitamin c to brighten too. You can build this up, if you need more coverage. There are 12 shades. I use this after my foundation and blend with my fingers and/or a brush and then sometimes use a bit of their miracle blur under my eyes too, (see below) - https://trinnylondon.com/uk/products/bff-eye

Miracle blur - £28. I am on my 3rd pot, so I guess that says it all really! It's a little pot of magic. It smooths fine lines, pores and any scarring. I like to use this under my eyes after concealer to reduce any fine lines and magnify. It looks quite waxy in the pot and you only need to pick up a small amount, (think pea size, if that). Warm it up on the back of your hand or in your palm and then gently pat where you want it to go with your ring finger. I also like to use it sides of my mouth, chin, nose...depending on the day and how I look! They also do a Face finish Mattifying balm @£25 https://trinnylondon.com/uk/products/face-finishwhich has skin enhancing silicones to help magnify and blur areas. This product gets rid of shine whereas the Miracle blur softens and blurs. A must have in your makeup kit! https://trinnylondon.com/uk/products/miracle-blur

Eye2Eye cream eyeshadow, £20. There are 23 shades to choose from. Highly pigmented and easy to apply and blend. You can also use this as an eye liner for definition. I have shades Fortune and Dawn. I do like to use an eye primer prior to using this, as my eyelids are on the oily side. This will help to prevent any creasing. A nice product to work with and great you can stack these so you don't end up with lots of makeup clattering around in your bag - https://trinnylondon.com/uk/products/eye-contact

Line2Define eye pencil - £24. 6 shades to choose from. I use Sabrina which is a rich brown, (but I am eager to collect them all!). Definition on a face is so important, it lifts the whole face and makes such a difference. This is waterproof which is an added bonus, so it will not smudge or end up making you look like a panda. It has a sharpener on the end too as it is a twist up pencil. Highly recommend - https://trinnylondon.com/uk/products/line2define?variant=chantelle

Miracle Halo - Multi-use completion illuminator - £32. This is a tinted cream that has a pearly sheen to it and you use it as a highlighter. It also adds radiance and brightens your skin. Use on the top of your cheekbones or wear alone or even just under your makeup for a lovely, dewy finish. You can also mix with your usual foundation or moisturiser. It did remind me of one of my old favourite highlighters from BECCA, Shimmering skin perfector, (now discontinued). Note : Use sparingly so you don't end up looking like the Tin man! - https://trinnylondon.com/uk/products/miracle-halo

Trinity - Lip, cheek and eye stick, £36. I have the shade Mustique. There are 2 cream based shades on the stick which you twist up on either end. You can use this for lips, cheeks and eyes. One end is glowy and one is matte. I love the peachy shade as it is very beautifying and "lifts" the face. Great on cheeks and also lips. Makes me look alive in an instant so I am all for that! - https://trinnylondon.com/uk/products/trinity

Also an update about my September column in the Lincolnshire Pride magazine, it is now live online via their website (and free to read too!) https://www.pridemagazines.co.uk/lincolnshire/view-magazines?magazine=September-2025 You can subscribe to read this which is free too, (although not free if you wanted a paper copy). I have had lots of good feedback about this and love writing about all things beauty and makeup. I am currently working on Decembers column, which is all about Party makeup. November's is about concealers and correctors. I am really excited to be their Beauty Editor and I really enjoy doing this, (in-between working on makeup lessons and special occasion makeup).

(Above - me in my studio and below my August column in the Lincolnshire Pride magazine).

(Above - the beautiful Amanda, who had visited me for her 3rd makeup lesson. We focused on special occasion makeup this time, false lashes and also a beautiful bright lip, which is from Lisa Eldridge and one of my favourites - https://www.lisaeldridge.com/products/skyscraper-rose-insanely-saturated-lip-colour

Anyway, bye for now, thank you for reading my blog. Don't forget to subscribe as I will be sending out offers and discounts plus lots of tips and product recommendations.

Next time I will hopefully have some really exciting news for you!!! Watch this space makeup lovers!!

Keep cool!

Love Tina x

Hi everyone, I hope you are all well and keeping as cool as you can in this hot and sticky weather!

Just a quick email to let you all know that I have been appointed Beauty Editor for the Lincolnshire Pride magazine! I will be writing a monthly column for them and I will be covering all things beauty, skincare and makeup.

I used to be Beauty Editor for The Journal magazine for 8 years before it stopped being published and I really missed writing, so I am back on it, (thank you for Lincolnshire Pride for giving me this opportunity).

In the July's edition there is a double page article about me and you can read this online via their website and see pic in my blog too. I also began my column and it was about SPF and holiday makeup. I really hope you enjoy reading this. Let me know what you think! As you know by now, I really love my work and have lots of knowledge to share with you all and this gives me another outlet to share with you tips, techniques and my favourite products and brands. I really could talk all day about skincare and makeup!!

I have been so busy with my makeup lessons and I love meeting people of all ages and ethnicities, helping them to not only look their best, but to feel it too.

My makeup lessons are proving very popular and I am currently working about 6 weeks in advance. My makeup brushes are very popular too and I have just managed to re-stock them! so I am busy preparing them ready to sell.

I was able to produce my brush collection with the help of the brilliant Maggie Hunt, (who was one of Princess Diana's Makeup artists, amongst other celebrities). I have admired her work for many years and so I am honoured that she helps me. I hope to be meeting up with her soon, so watch this space!...

If you would like to purchase any brushes they are available via my online store via my website - https://tinabrocklebank.co.uk/online-store/ or via my studio. I am so proud of them. They not only look great and of the highest quality, but they make your makeup application easy and so quick. A true investment.

Anyway I am signing off for now as I have to get my brushes prepared and kit all tip-top for another busy week. Thanks for subscribing to my blog and please let me know if there is anything you would like me to cover in my blog.

Love from Tina x

(P.S - I will also soon have some more exciting news for you, so watch this space too!!)

Hello fellow make-up lovers,

Today I have my washing out on the washing line and the sun is shining! How exciting! Spring is my favourite time of the year! like makeup, it gives me a boost!

Christmas is not my favourite time of the year, for me, its too overwhelming and manic, plus we lose our routine, which for me, is so important for my mental health, boring as it sounds! Then we have to deal with the long, grey, dark days of the next 2 months, so thank goodness Spring is nearly here! I often turn to my skincare and makeup for solace!! it really is self-care.

This is the perfect opportunity to experiment with some new makeup looks. I am always on the lookout for new makeup or skincare products. Read on for a bit of inspiration and some tips along the way...

Most of my clients visit me because they want to look the best version of themselves. They can easily achieve this, by spending time on themselves with simple techniques, the best tools and products and a little bit of knowledge. My clients visit me as they do not like heavy makeup, they want to look stylish, natural and effortless, (my signature look, and one I am known for)...

Below shows a recent client of mine, Julie, who wanted to learn all about how to care for her skin and look her best self...(please also read her review if you scroll down). I really love helping people.

I have been so busy with my makeup lessons. I offer 1-1 or Joint makeup lessons in my countryside studio. These include thorough research prior to the lesson, (I send out an in-depth questionnaire), a no nonsense skincare guide and easy to follow advice, advice on what skincare is best for you and application demo, using the right tools and brushes, a demo on your chosen makeup look using the best makeup brands, you also receive a Makeup lesson booklet with tips and a personalised product list, (I am not affiliated with any brands, so do not receive any commission from any sales, so no hard sell), you also receive a 10% discount on any of my brush collections and a follow up Online makeup lesson, a before and after photo plus some feedback which is typed up and given to you on the lesson, which is gathered from the information from the questionnaire.

I absolutely love experimenting with new products and therefore, know what works and what doesn't work plus with my vast experience, (35 years) in the industry you can be confident that I help you.

The 3 tips that I always tell my clients if they want to enhance their faces -

1. Skin - "Skin is the foundation" so good skincare is essential, plus investing time in yourself plus applying the right products to your skin to make it look as naturally healthy as possible and its best is simple when you have the knowledge and the right tools and products.
2. Definition - Applying the right products in the right places will bring your features back, without looking overly made up, (we lose definition as we get older).
3. Colour - Applying the right textures and shades in the right places on your face will enliven and brighten your face, not only make you look good but also feel good too!

I meet so many women who sadly do not prioritise themselves, (so easily done I know, we all lead such busy lives these days), but, all it takes is allocating that little bit of time to yourself once you have your essentials and you will be well away, (and not overwhelmed.). It's not like you are filling out a tax return!! its so important you spend this time on yourselves before everyone else has a piece of you!! I really believe that this is self care and I know first hand, that it boosts you to be then able and more equipped to do everything you want to do...but with a spring in your step!

Mother's day is approaching and if you would like a Gift voucher for a Makeup lesson, you can purchase either via my Online store https://tinabrocklebank.co.uk/online-store/ or contact me via email tina@tinabrocklebank.co.uk and I will pop one in the post for you.

Check out my reviews via my Google page https://g.co/kgs/mQ52tYK and also my Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/TinaBrocklebankMUA/

Thank you for subscribing to my blog and I hope you found this helpful. Please do reach out to me if you would like to book and see your best self!

Love, Tina xx

Spring is my favourite time of the year and I don't know about you, but when the sun is out it always makes me feel better! ...it's such a tonic, and I feel that way about make-up and skincare too...

This got me thinking about things that can lift our mood, and for me, make-up hits that mark every single time. Even on my worst days, I always, at the very least, do my skincare, as it makes me feel so much better, even with a bit of moisturiser on or lip balm. It is no surprise to me that makeup works as an anti-depressant and a recent study proves this...

The article written by Beauty Journalist Inge van Lotringen resonated with me, its about how makeup has the power to lift your mood and the study has found that wearing makeup can have a marked effect on improving women's mood and even helps with maintaining good mental health - https://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-13256199/lipstick-really-lift-beauty-writer-INGE-VAN-LOTRINGEN-rejoices.html

The study from the research team from Sao Paulo in Brazil and Queensland and Curtin University in Australia found that regular use of makeup was associated with lower incidence of mild depression and lower intensity of depressive symptoms. Professor Carmine Pariante, Professor of Biological Psychiatry at the Institute of Psychiatry and King's college London, said: 'Make-up is a type of self-care and, as shown in this study, helps with depression. The benefit is clinically significant, as by using the Zung scale, (which measures 20 different feelings and emotions - before and after the experiment).

I spend so much time teaching other people about their skincare and their makeup, that I thought you may find it interesting if I shared my skincare and makeup routine. I would love to hear your thoughts too, including what you like using.

Being 54, the basics like going to bed early and getting enough sleep, not drinking alcohol, (i've yet to be tee total but heading that way!), exercising, eating good (non processed) food, having a good HRT regime, drinking plenty of water and taking a supplement is key for me. I try and exercise at least 3 times a week and this includes weight training.

(I check in with Dr Newson once a year, regarding my HRT regime and hormone levels too). If you haven't already done so, you can read my blog about my menopause journey - https://tinabrocklebank.co.uk/my-experience-with-surgical-menopause-and-hrt/

Skincare wise - my skins needs, (like yours) will change throughout the year and it will look different from day to day, therefore, I always adapt my regime to how it looks and feels.

For my morning routine I am using my own Organic, cruelty free Cleansing oil, (which I make myself) it includes Coconut oil, castor oil, rosehip oil and blend in a Blue chamomile essential oil. I like to mix up my acids, (these are very gentle so don't be afraid! and you use these as you would a toner, after cleansing), so I either use a PHA or an AHA, as my skin is generally dry. The PHA is from Medik8 and the AHA is from Pixi, (glow tonic). These are very gentle on my skin, and you can always tell when I haven't used one, as my skin can look a bit dull and flat.

Serums next, and I use mainly Beauty Pie ones, and I layer these, some days I will use one or two. My favourite ones are the Vitamin C Superdose, Triple Hyaluronic acid, Superdrops, (Niacinamide), Japan Fusion and Genius lift elixir and Daily Vitamin defence serum. I then sometimes spritz on their Hyalurionic mist before moisturiser and then finally SPF! (no lower than a 30, all year round). I am always amazed at how many women do not apply SPF, (and also feel guilty for spending time on themselves, it makes me sad).

Generally I like to use a more hydrating moisturiser, such as Bobbi Brown Extra repair moisture cream Intense or a lighter option is Embryolisse Lait creme concentre. I always use a dedicated SPF, I have just finished my first bottle of Ultra Violette Super supreme skin screen SPF50, and I will definitely be re-purchasing!

For evening I will use Retinol and sometimes Tretinoin, which I have sent to me from my lovely friend in Spain and I use this 2-3 a week.

From a very young age I witnessed my Mum's daily ritual of applying her makeup. She always had a big pot of Nivea face cream too, (I loved that smell and glorious white cream in the tin. I also loved the way my cheek stuck to her cheek momentarily when I kissed her). She'd describe it as, "...putting my face on"! Admittedly, I was always a little embarrassed by her glamour when I went to school, (I am ashamed to say it now). She always stood out, (nice one Mum!) Her hair was beehived to perfection, set hard with hairspray - not a hair out of place and lipstick always on point, (her trademark bright orange, which I applied for her when she was in the hospice, 3 days before she passed away. Ever the glamourpuss).

I remember people at my school used to poke fun at me about her, but to me, it was normal and I loved her dearly. I absolutely idolised her. She was a strong, hard working Mum, (she kept an immaculate home, worked as a school cleaner and brought up 3 children almost single handedly, as my Dad always had to work away from home, abroad mostly). Even if she was doing housework she always had her "face on", she would be cleaning windows outside with her lipstick on...I was in awe of her from a young age and she rocked her hair and her makeup. Even on the wettest, most depressing days she always had her bright lippie on. I can totally understand now why she did that. It was such a beautiful and powerful lesson that she instilled into me - to give myself love and time everyday and to make the best of myself, for myself.

As I learned about skin and makeup over the years, (I was also inspired by my beloved Girls world toy), its become even more important to me to make that time for myself each morning. It really is self-care. Just like brushing your teeth or drinking water. For me, it is an essential part of my day and one I thoroughly enjoy doing. It's the only thing I have any kind of control of after all! It can really put me out of sorts if I don't get the time to do this, even if I am going to the gym! "The marvel of make-up is that it allows us to put on the face we want to present to the world. Feeling right in your skin means confidence - and confidence is the root of much of our achievements in life, as well as our joy".

Looking after my skin is just as important, after all, "Skin is the foundation", as skin guru, Caroline Hirons says, which is absolutely bang on! If you invest in your skin and yourself, then ultimately, you will "need" less makeup to correct those "issues" you may find on your skin/face.

I am a firm believer in the less is more approach, as you may know. When I graduated from The London college of Fashion in '95 I went on to work for Bobbi Brown essentials, at the first store in Nottingham. I had the best training and loved going to London at the Estee Lauder head office. Working on the counter was second to none. I learned such a lot. I love Bobbi's philosophy that, "makeup is not rocket science" and "makeup that looks like you, only better". It has stuck with me to this day and I pass this knowledge and message on to my clients and I get huge satisfaction from helping countless women look and feel the best version of themselves, using the right tools, knowledge and products. Bobbi does not own Bobbi Brown anymore and has her own different brand, Jones Road beauty, which I love and use in my studio too. You can shop her products here - https://www.jonesroadbeauty.com

Makeup is such a powerful tool and to me it really is self care - feeling and looking good, for myself and nobody else! (so thanks Mum x x x )

Here is what make-up I am loving using at the moment -

After my SPF I like to use something that keeps my makeup looking fresh and is the best base for it too, so something like the Bobbi Brown Radiance primer, Beauty Pie Brightening primeror IT cosmetics CC cream, (the CC cream I use very minimally, where needed as it is quite heavy coverage, and I don't like that look).

For years I have used the Bobbi Brown foundation stick as it is so quick to use and is very natural, you can also apply in light layers and build up the intensity. It is also good as it covers any redness on your skin, so good around the nose and chin for me. I also rate their concealer, which is very hydrating and I like to layer this and blend with a soft, fluffy brush. If I am particularly dark under my eyes I find that Beauty Pie Under eye genius is excellent as a corrector, so I use this first, (before concealer). I might also use a bit of my old faithful YSL Touche eclait, (I only use the Radiant touch shade though, which is the only shade that looks slightly pink so to counteract any grey/brown tones under my eyes). I hardly ever use powder on my skin.

For my brows, which I stupidly tweezed away in my 20's, (damn you Kate Moss!!), I use a mixture of Maybelline Brow drama and an Anastasia dip brow pomade in Ash brown, applied in hair like strokes to mimic my brow hairs, (bane of my life!!) Thank goodness my daughter has listened to me about this and has kept her beautiful, thick, natural eyebrows).

For eyes, I find NARS Pro smudge eye primer very good as a base for eyeshadow. Beauty Pie do some lovely eyeshadow palettes, and this one is a James Malloy one. The eye pencil is excellent, again from Beauty Pie in Turkish coffee, and does not budge, as is the same story for their Wrap star tubing mascara. Its amazing.

I like a pop of colour on my cheeks, so this powder and highlighter duo works well, its a pinky tone with a highlighter with it, but to get that glow I mix the 2, I also use the Beauty Pie Luminizing wand on the top of my cheekbones for added glow! (I need all the glow I can get at my age!!...)

For lips, I like a natural shade with a pinky tone, not brown. I usually mix 2 lipsticks as I still haven't found my perfect nude lipstick. The ones in the photo are from Revlon in 008 That girl, (a rose pink) and then I mix on top a Charlotte Tilbury Kim K.W lipstick which is lovely light pink tone. I define my lip line with an NYX liner in Nude beige.

Above is another example of my day makeup items. I bought the Jones Road beauty Miracle balm, but didn't get the hype and wanted desperately to love it, so keep using it. It is yet to convince me, as it is quite heavy, maybe nice for cold days. I have mixed the shade Au Naturel with a Jones Road shimmer oil in Cool rose for a bit of colour and more luminosity and to loosen it up a bit. Seems to work so far.

I am a huge fan of Lisa Eldridges work and as I got to meet her last year, I have bought more of her makeup products to try. The latest one being her Enhancing skin tint. It is sadly in a very small bottle, but you only need a small amount as it is very watery. It is gorgeous on the skin and gives a light coverage and a lovely even, dewy finish. I chose shade T7 as I like a bit of warmth. The blush here is Bobbi Brown in Modern shimmer and the gloss by Lisa Eldridge in Song bird, a beautiful fresh, brightening pink gloss.

Pic above - me playing around with my makeup - here I used some Swarovski crystals and MAC Holographic loose eyeshadow pigment, plus some Charlotte Tilbury eyeshadow crayons.

Below pic - Here I used mostly Lisa Eldridge makeup including her Liquid lurex eyeshadow in Maya. Lipstick is Sunday Matinee with Petal lip pencil.

I really love Beauty Pie makeup at the moment!

The bright lip colour above is from Lisa Eldridge in Rainbow spill with her lip pencil in Carnival. You can shop her products here - https://www.lisaeldridge.com/collections/insanely-saturated-lip-colour

Here I am when I met Lisa at Liberty in London last year...(pic below), I look a bit deranged and star struck haha.

I hope you all had a lovely Easter break. I have lots of makeup lessons booked in at my studio, (1-1, Joint and Group), and look forward to meeting you hopefully soon!

Follow me on Instagram @tinabrocklebankmakeup https://www.instagram.com/tinabrocklebankmakeup/ or my Facebook page Tina Brocklebank Make-up artist for behind the scenes updates and more tips and products info!

Tina x