There's something so lovely about putting on makeup.  It might be five minutes before you leave the house, carefully applying your lippy whilst boiling the kettle, or taking a little longer to sit at your dressing table and create a look that makes you feel good, like you again.  A bit of space for you.

And while makeup is often dismissed as something vain or superficial there is actual evidence that beauty rituals can have a positive effect on how we feel.  One of the reasons why I love it so much and love to pass this on in my work on my Make-up lessons or Special occasion makeup appointments.

For those of us who have spent years being told that we should wear makeup to look younger, prettier or more presentable, I've always looked at it differently to that.  For me, I just love how meditative it is, the whole process of applying it, feeling the different textures and experimenting with different shades, often resulting in a whole different mood when I have completed the process...a much more positive one!

So, what if we wear makeup simply because it makes us feel good? that's a good thing right?!

Research into the psychological effects of makeup is surprisingly interesting and not often spoke about or promoted enough.

A 2024 randomised controlled trial looked specifically at what happened when women who did not regularly wear makeup were encouraged to use it more frequently.  Researchers found reductions in anxiety and depressive symptoms, improvements in self image and changes in cortisol levels following makeup use.  The authors concluded that makeup could contribute to wellbeing for some women.

That certainly does not mean that putting on a foundation is a treatment for depression - it isn't, however, it does suggest that something as ordinary as applying makeup may influence how we feel about ourselves and our appearance, and that matters.

It can be a little act of self-care but there is a difference between putting on makeup because you feel you have to, and putting it on because you want to.  The ritual itself can be important.

Choosing your favourite products, sitting down in-front of the mirror, taking a few minutes for yourself and concentrating on what you are doing can create a little pause, in an otherwise hectic, overwhelming day.  I see this time and time again with my many clients who visit me.  Most of them are feeling exhausted, they are running on empty, looking after children, Husbands, elderly parents, working, housework...you get the gist.  Most of them also feel guilty about putting themselves first and that resonates with me too, as I have felt like this before.  However, it's true - "You can't pour from an empty cup."

For many women, particularly during difficult periods of life, maintaining familiar beauty routines can provide a sense of normality and calm.  A time to just breathe.

Research involving women undergoing breast cancer treatment has found some particularly interesting results.  In one study, women who took part in the programme experienced reductions in anxiety and depression alongside improvements in self-esteem and satisfaction with their appearance and body.

These were specific groups of women and shouldn't be interpreted as proof that makeup will have the same effect on everyone, but they do demonstrate something important - appearance related care can have psychological and emotional significance.

Beautiful CEO Michelle Robinson for St Andrew's Hospice. Lipstick is Lisa Eldridge Velveteen liquid lip in Ribbon.)

It's not about looking younger, (this is something I am particularly passionate about.)  Makeup doesn't need to be about disguising every line, every pore or trying to look the same as when you were 25, (that effect can actually have the opposite effect.  Less really is more, but strategically placed!)

Less foundation (but better skincare), a little pop of colour on the cheeks, a softly defined eye, brows that are softly defined, a little glow here and there, a lipstick that brightens your face and makes you feel happy.  These things can be so incredibly simple, but they can change how we carry ourselves.

Special occasion makeup for beautiful Mother of the Groom, Sally. (Here I mostly used Lisa Eldridge makeup.)

There is not one right reason to wear makeup.  It might be because you love colour or it makes you feel good or you enjoy the creativity and expressing yourself.  All of these reasons are valid and unique to that person.

It doesn't have to be serious, it can be playful too.  It can be a way of completely taking you out of your comfort zone and trying something new and different...and finding out you love something different!  It's all part of the creative process and there to be enjoyed!

Beautiful Julie, who visited me for a Makeup lesson at my studio. (Lipstick is Lisa Eldridge Velvet Duchess.)

So sometimes, when we are feeling a little flat, something creative can be exactly the change of focus we need.  That's not to say we should use makeup to hide difficult emotions or believe that looking different will solve problems, but doing something small that makes us feel a bit brighter is a good thing.

Perhaps the best thing we can take from all of this is very simple - don't wait for somewhere special to go to wear your favourite lipstick, don't save that beautiful eyeshadow.  Put it on because it is Monday and you are going to the supermarket!  Make-up can be one small, enjoyable part of looking after ourselves.  So much of the conversation today is about fixing, tweaking or changing but there is power in remembering that makeup can be just purely about pleasure.

Beautiful Raj. Special occasion makeup by Tina Brocklebank Make-up artist.  (Lipstick here is Lisa Eldridge Strawberry shock.)

Tina's top tips - Makeup for a little mood boost

Don't save your favourite products, wear it because it makes you happy.

Give yourself five minutes, even if you are not going anywhere.  Think of it as a ritual, not a chore.

Focus on what you love, rather than trying to disguise everything you think you should change.

Try a different lipstick, add a little bit more colour.  Make-up should be fun!

Come and visit me in my countryside makeup studio.  I offer 1-1 Makeup lessons, Joint make-up lessons and Special occcasion makeup. Give yourself that time.

Remember, makeup isn't a requirement, there will be days when you don't want to wear any at all, and that of course is absolutely fine.  Use your favourite moisturiser or Facial oil, (exactly the reason why I blend and sell my own Organic TLC Facial oil), or light a gorgeous smelling candle.  Small acts of self-care. (*TLC stands for Tina Loving Care.)  I also have my own brush collections, available via my Online store too, or in-studio.

For me personally, sometimes the answer to a really bad day isn't therapy...its a really good lipstick!!

(Here I am wearing Lisa Eldridge Insanely saturated Lip colour in New wave.)

P.S _ Thank you for subscribing to my Monthly blog and apologies it is late this month! I have been really busy with appointments.

Bookings being taken from November onwards and also Gift vouchers and Gift sets now available for (dare I say it), CHRISTMAAAAAAAS!! My diary is open for 2027 and bookings for 2028 being taken too!)

Thank you for subscribing.

Love from, Tina x

July has been a very busy month for me and although I don't post about everything I am working on, there has been a lot of hard work going on behind the scenes! as well as concentrating on my Makeup lessons, Online makeup lessons and Special occasion makeup work.

One of the biggest projects I have been working on is making up another batch of my Organic TLC Facial elixir oil as the first batch completely sold out.  Its something I have been really passionate about and excited to bring to you.  Created with women like you in mind, its all about giving your skin a little bit of Tina Loving Care, (hence the name TLC!)  I meet so many ladies whose skin needs more nourishment and care quickly, and my oil really delivers in that department, (to be honest, I have messages from my clients saying that their Husbands love my oil too!)

Organic TLC Super Nutrient Facial elixir oil

I have also been putting lots of thought into how I present my products.  I have been working on some beautiful editorial-style photography for my brush collection, Facial oil and Gift boxes, creating imagery that feels much more like my brand - stylish, feminine, natural and luxurious.

Display shelves inside my studio.

I absolutely love this side of my business.  After more than 36 years as a working Make-up artist and Beauty expert, I have learned that the little details really do matter.  From the way a product is photographed to the packaging and the experience of opening it, I want everything I create to feel considered.  I have no team behind me, I do everything completely by myself and there have been plenty of those less glamorous but very necessary jobs happening I can tell you!

My website is currently undergoing some changes as it has grown considerably over the years.  With years of photographs, blogs, products and other content it was time for a digital spring clean - or perhaps an August clean! My online store has had a revamp and my new products are live now, (thanks to Joey from Square one solutions.)

I have also been working on my social media and making sure everything is connected and working as it should.  It's surprising how much work goes into running a small business completely by yourself, that no-one ever sees.  Being a Make-up artist is only one part of what I do these days - there is also cleaning my studio and kit, photography, product development, writing, marketing, websites, social media, customer service and all the other little jobs that come with being a one-woman band!  I must admit, I am not a fan of social media, but it is a very powerful tool, (like makeup), but I am a Makeup artist, not a content creator, and I do struggle with that side of things.

Beauty, makeup and women of all ages

My passion however, remains exactly where it has always been - helping women feel confident about themselves and makeup is a powerful tool.

As a woman in my 50s myself, I understand that our relationship with makeup and skincare changes as we get older.  What worked at 25 doesn't necessarily work at 45, 55 or beyond - and I think that's something we should embrace rather than fight.

I am particularly passionate about showing women that makeup doesn't have to look heavy or be complicated plus in the meantime, to have fun experimenting with their makeup.  Its about embracing your uniqueness and so its not a one size fits all approach with my style of makeup.

I was approached by the CEO of local charity, St Andrews hospice as she was having a charity hair shave and wanted me to do her makeup for her.  Ironically, the day it fell on was the actual day my Mum passed away 5 years ago at the same hospice, so it was an honour for me to do it...and she rocked her new look! She looked absolutely beautiful.  What an amazing charity it is and I am ever grateful to them.

CEO Michelle Robinson of St Andrews Hospice.

As I have mentioned, I work with all ages and I am soon to be working with Mum and 13 year old daughter on a Joint makeup lesson.  Mum has specifically asked me to use brands that are suitable for young skin, natural and minimal as a good introduction to makeup for her daughter.  (Mum has previously visited me for special occasion makeup.)

I was kindly sent some beautiful products from Lily Lolo, who are based right near me, in Hull.  I have actually been into their headquarters in Hull many years ago, as they approached me for my thoughts with makeup that looks natural and what I thought about their products.  I must admit, I had forgotten about their brand, but upon receiving their products, I was really pleasantly surprised with the quality of the product.  I shall update you after my lesson this month, but upon trying it on myself, the products are really beautiful.  Unfortunately, one of the pressed powders broke but everything else is lovely!

Lily Lolo

https://www.lilylolo.co.uk

I was also sent some beautiful products from one of my favourite brands, and one of my favourite Make-up artists, Lisa Eldridge.  I use a lot of the brand in my studio.  It is a good introduction for a lot of my clients, as they usually have not heard of her.  The products are a very high quality and everything is just beautifully packaged.  I love working with these products.

Lisa Eldridge makeup

Finally, as ever, thank you to everyone who supports my little business.  Every booking, purchase, recommendation, review, like and share genuinely means a lot to me.  I have dreamt of being a Makeup artist for as long as I can remember, (from when my Mum bought me a Girls World! I must have been about 8 years old!), so thank you.

Lots of upcoming bookings for 1-1 and Joint makeup lessons, Virtual makeup lessons and special occasion makeup.  Taking bookings for 2027.

Here's to another month of make-up, beauty, creativity and a lot of Tina Loving Care!

Thank you for subscribing to my blog.  Keep cool!

Tina x

Tina Brocklebank Make-up artist.

If you've stepped outside recently, (or actually, even just stayed indoors!) and felt as though you've accidentally wandered into the Sahara wearing a cardigan, you're not alone. The recent heat has had many of us questioning our wardrobe choices and makeup choices.

I tested the new Jones Road Beauty Foundation stick (after finding a piece of beauty history in my attic!)

Let's be honest, most mornings I am certainly not aiming for "red carpet ready" I am aiming for "well rested" (even if I am absolutely not). Over the years, (and countless early starts), I have narrowed my daily makeup down to a reliable little lineup that helps me look and feel better...even when I am still mentally in bed.

Skin first, (because I am not 21 anymore)

Gone are the days of a bit of concealer and hoping for the best. Now, it's all about skin that is older but well cared for. I always take the time to do my skincare each morning and night, consistency is key. I enjoy this time to myself and the whole process. (because I know if my skin is well cared for, I will not need to spend as long on makeup or use as much, plus it makes me just feel better!)

I use a clean white microfibre cloth each day with a cleansing balm, (I like the Boots Oat one or the Skin Rocks Gel cleanser - which feels so luxurious and very nourishing, not like a gel at all). I sometimes use a CeraVe Hydrating cleanser in the mornings too. I use warm water, (not hot) and give my face a good old massage! I double cleanse in the evenings. Using a microfibre cloth means I don't have to work too hard to remove my eye makeup in the evenings, as my eyes can be a little sensitive. The cloth is very gentle.

Next I use an Acid toner, (about 3 times a week and depending on how my skin feels and looks). My favourites are The Gentle acid toner from Skin Rocks or Paula's choice 2% BHA liquid exfoliant. Mornings I will then use either a Medik8 C-Tetra Vitamin c serum and/or the Skin Rocks The Amplifier to increase the results of actives I am using. I have started to use an eye cream by Skin Rocks and it is great under makeup, I also love their Rich cream moisturiser but I do also use my TLC Organic Facial oil either on its own or with, depending on how my skin feels and looks. I always wear SPF and my go to is La Roche Posay, Invisible fluid Anthelios Fluid SPF 50 as it is very light and doesn't sting my eyes.

Evenings, (after double cleansing), I am currently using Medik8 Crystal Retinal 6 and will apply a few drops of my TLC Organic Facial oil once it has absorbed, just to add more moisture and to ensure no dryness.

Base - For day, I go for something light and enough to even things out without setting into places that I don't want. I rate the Erborian BB Creme for this, it's wonderful, not heavy and stays put, very natural too. If I am a bit grey looking or a bit dull under the eyes, I like the Beauty Pie Lilac Super-luminous corrector, as it brightens before I add any concealer. I will use the Erborian Skin Hero Eye here and perhaps a bit of MAC Studio fix concealer, (if I look really tired, I will use my trusty YSL Touche eclait in Luminous radiance as it has enough pink in it to brighten up this area.

I only tend to use a bit of powder strategically placed, (on the tip of my nose, sides of mouth and between my brows), or I will warm a bit of Trinny London Miracle blur and tap it onto these places. I find if you put this under the eye area, it can crease a bit. A bit of glow is good, I hate that, "mattify the life out of the face" look. Glow says healthy.

I thought I would try out some of the Aldi, (Lacura) products and I was pleasantly surprised with their Bronzing drops. Nice for a bit of added warmth, (apply sparingly on the outside of the forehead, on the top of cheekbones and down the front of the neck). No7 also do a good cream bronzer, (a lot cheaper than the Chanel one).

Brows - The instant face lift. Brows are magic. Truly. A few quick strokes or a swipe of eyeshadow and suddenly I look ok. It's the closest thing to a mini facelift, (without having to lie down or have any pain!) I was daft in the 90's and followed trends, (damn you Kate Moss!) I plucked my brows away and lived to regret it, so I have them micro bladed, (Carrie Fuell in Lincoln is the best in my opinion. Check her out on Instagram, but book in advance as she's very popular! and rightly so). Carrie gives me a suggestion of a brow and then I just add to, using what I need. Currently I am using the Anastasia Beverly Hills Powder duo in Ash brown,(there's a lighter and a darker shade in there and I just use the lighter tone on the inner part of the brow and darken slightly with the other shade). I then set with a clear MAC Pro locked brow gel. You can also use this as an eye definer, (just use it damp along the top lash line) and smudge in). NYX also do great brow pens.

Eyes - I don't want to spend three hours blending or applying eyeshadow, (even though I am sure I would enjoy it). A neutral wash of colour, bit of definition along the lash line and swipe of mascara and there I am!! For ease I love the Lisa Eldridge Liquid eyeshadows, I have most of the shades, and they are also great as an eye primer, (I apply it before any powder eyeshadows). For smokey eyes I love the Natasha Denona Mini eye sculpt (Cool toned), see photo above. Finish with a good, black thickening mascara, I love the L'Oreal Panorama one. Good pencils to use are from Beauty Pie, Lisa Eldridge and I love the Kat Von D Tattoo liquid liner ones. I also love the NYX Warm neutrals eye palette or the Delilah cosmetics one in Venus.

Blush - My secret weapon and one of the most underrated makeup products. It brings back life into the face faster than anything else. I love the Armani luminous liquid ones. You wouldn't think to buy a red one, but the number 41 one is excellent, (just remember we have that beautiful blood red colour underneath our skins, and we want to try and mimic that a bit, its super flattering and you can mix it with other shades, like Apricot). I do like to set sometimes with a powder one, I like the MAC Extra dimension ones as they have a nice amount of pigment and slightly sheeny, (I like the shade Cheeky bits). For highlight I like the Merit balm stick in Cava.

Lips - I don't have the emotional capacity for high maintenance lipstick, but I do love applying it, the whole process of popping off the lid and applying it. My go to is a MAC Macximal Silky matte lipstick in Kinda Sexy and use lip pencils from Lisa Eldridge - 1c/Fawn, or Pillow talk from Charlotte Tilbury. This is something I can apply without a mirror and keeps on really well too.

My daily makeup routine is quick, doesn't require perfection, (it's more about effect), and isn't about looking flawless. I just want to look like the best version of myself and feel better, it goes hand in hand.

I have been really enjoying working on my Makeup lessons. My Brush collections are also proving very popular and I am just about to make up another batch of my Organic TLC Super Nutrient elixir Oil! You can purchase these from my Online store https://tinabrocklebank.co.uk/online-store/or email me tina@tinabrocklebank.co.uk for more details!

Love, Tina x

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).

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

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.