lessons Archives | Tina Brocklebank

lessons

The Makeup lessons everyone should know

Great makeup isn't about owning endless products or following every trend. It's about understanding a few techniques that help you look polished, confident and like the very best version of yourself.

Whether you love a full glamorous look or prefer minimal makeup, mastering the basics can completely transform the way your makeup looks and feels.

Here are the makeup lessons everyone should know -

Great makeup always starts with skin -

No foundation can compete with dry, dehydrated or dull skin. Smooth, healthy looking skin creates the best canvas for makeup to be effective and beautiful. This was one of the reasons why I blend and make my own Organic TLC facial elixir oil - read about it here - https://tinabrocklebank.co.uk/who-is-ready-for-a-bit-of-tlc-tina-loving-care/

Before applying anything, cleanse, acid tone and moisturise according to how your skin looks and feels on that day. Allow skincare to settle for a few minutes. If your skin is dry, choose a richer moisturiser, if oily, opt for lightweight moisture rather than skipping it altogether.

When skin is balanced, makeup sits better, lasts longer and looks far more natural.

Foundation should match your skin - not change it -

Foundation should even out tone, not mask your skin completely. One of the most common mistakes is choosing a shade too dark, too pale, too orange or too heavy.

Test foundation along the jawline in natural daylight. The right shade should disappear without blending.

Remember, coverage is personal. Some people love a tinted moisturiser others prefer medium or full coverage. The best foundation is the one that makes your skin look like skin and makes you look and feel great.

Less product often looks better

Applying more makeup rarely creates a better result, too much product can settle into any fine lines, emphasise texture and look like makeup, (which isn't the aim).

Use thin layers and build gradually. Start with less concealer, less powder and less blush than you think you need. You can always add more, but taking away excess is harder.

Brows frame the face

Well-groomed brows can lift and define the entire face. They don't need to be dramatic or overly sculpted, otherwise you risk them dominating the face.

Focus on brushing brows upwards, softly filling sparse areas and keeping the shape and shade of the product natural. Don't opt for anything too dark, lighter is always best. Avoid harsh, blocky lines. Brows should enhance your features, not overpower them.

Blending is everything

Even the most expensive products won't look good if they aren't blended properly. It's best to apply with fingers first, (as they are warm and avoids wasting the product in a sponge or brush), then use the sponge/brush to blend it gently.

Blend foundation upwards into the hairline, soften blush edges, diffuse eyeshadow and make sure bronzer melts into the skin with no harsh edges. Good blending creates that seamless, professional finish that everyone wants.

Placement changes everything

Where you apply makeup can completely alter the effect. Blush placed slightly higher can lift the face. bronzer around the perimeter adds warmth and dimension. Highlight on cheekbones catches the light beautifully. Concealer only where needed looks fresher than large triangles under the eyes.

Technique matters just as much as product.

Powder only where you need it

Many people over-powder the skin, which can leave makeup looking flat or dry. Instead, lightly powder areas prone to shine, such as down the t-zone, sides of nose and chin. Leave the rest of the skin with a little natural glow. Fresh skin always looks more modern than overly matte skin.

Eye makeup doesn't need to be complicated

You do not need five eyeshadows and cut creases for beautiful eye makeup. A soft neutral eyeshadow, definition at the lash line, curled lashes and mascara can open the eyes instantly. Simplicity is the most flattering option.

Lip colour finishes the look

Even minimal makeup looks polished with a lip colour. Whether it's balm, nude, rose or bold red. The right tone of lip colour and texture brings everything together.

If lipstick fades quickly, lightly line the lips first or apply in thin layers and blot between coats.

Confidence is the best beauty product

The most beautiful makeup always comes with confidence. Trends change constantly, but knowing what suits you never goes out of style. As the great Karl Lagerfeld once said, "Trendy is the last stage before tacky".

Use makeup to enhance, express and enjoy - not to hide.

Final thoughts

Makeup should feel empowering, not confusing. When you understand the basics - skin prep, shade matching, blending, placement and restraint - everything becomes easier and more enjoyable.

You don't need hundreds of products or hours in front of the mirror. You simply need the right makeup, tools, a bit of knowledge and practise and you will be well away, because the best makeup isn't about perfection, its about feeling your best self.

Whether you are a teenager learning the essentials, a busy woman wanting an easy daily routine, a Bride preparing for your big day or someone looking to refresh and modernise your makeup style, the right guidance can make all the difference...

My personalised makeup lessons in my Lincolnshire countryside Makeup studio are designed for all ages, all abilities, every ethnicity and every occasion - helping you to discover what truly works for your face, your lifestyle and your confidence. From beginners to Brides, teens to mature ladies, I will show you how to feel your absolute best with makeup that enhances rather than overwhelms, because great makeup is a life skill and has no age limit. It's about feeling beautiful, confident and completely yourself.

Ready to feel more confident with your makeup?

Sometimes all it takes is one personalised lesson to make everything click.

Whether you would like to master everyday makeup, update your current routine, prepare for a special occasion or simply feel more confident applying your own makeup, my 1-1 Makeup lessons are tailored entirely for you.

I also offer Joint Makeup lessons where you can bring your friend/relative along! -

I even offer Virtual makeup lessons! so you can learn in the comfort of your own home if you cannot visit me in my studio. (See below for a couple of Virtual makeup lesson clients)...

Dr Louise Newson (Virtual makeup lesson) https://www.drlouisenewson.co.uk

I would love to help you. Get in touch to book your Personalised Makeup lesson today! - https://tinabrocklebank.co.uk/get-in-touch/

News & Events - 04/27/2026

Review for Tina Brocklebank Make-up artist

My make-up columns and make-up lessons...

I am very lucky to be a columnist for The Lincoln Journal and The Lincolnshire Journal magazines, (I also write columns for The Wedding Journal too.)

My most recent column in The Wedding Journal is talking about why you should book a Pro make-up artist on your wedding day. Here's a snippet, "Weddings are a time of celebration and happiness and I am always honoured to be a part of someones' special day. When choosing a Make-up artist, you can't beat a first hand recommendation or review. Ask around and check out their social media accounts and portfolio too. See how long they have been in the industry for, (I sang in the bathroom last night, it doesn't make me a singer, if you know what I mean.) Getting your make-up applied professionally is a luxury, but with all things luxury there is a cost associated with it. Yes, you could do your make-up yourself or get your friend, but would it look the same? and do you need that stress on your wedding day? Price wise, a Pro make-up artist will charge what they are worth. You are not just paying for their expertise, experience or application, but upkeep of their kit, time, travel, cleaning and sanitising their kit, answering e-mails, etc, etc. Make-up artists work so hard, in and out of hours. Basically, you do get what you pay for. When you have chosen your make-up artist, book them...fast! A reputable make-up artist has a packed schedule and while that says great things about them and their work, it means you have to get a contract in place, (a professional will already have this in place as standard.) I don't recommend not having a trial before the wedding day, and actually, I don't take Brides on without this anyway, it is far too important. Not only should the makeup artist be amazing at make-up but you need someone who is going to be reliable, professional, keep you calm and also works well under pressure, you also need to have a good rapport with them. I have lost count of the number of times I have given reassuring hugs, passed a tissue and wiped tears, or poured a glass of champers to a nervous Bride...but its all part of the job. Make sure you wear waterproof products for obvious reasons! You don't want to have panda eyes or streaks ruining your look! Lastly, embrace the whole experience of having a professional apply your make-up for you. It is a most enjoyable experience and one which you will remember for the rest of your life."

My October Lincolnshire Journal "Tina Brocklebank Make-up artist knows good make-up..." talks about dark under eye circles, (something which I have myself.) Products I recommend are a good eye cream, Bobbi Brown corrector and concealer, Laura Mercier secret camouflage palette, Louise Young cosmetics, Barry M concealers, Amazing Cosmetics concealers, YSL Touche Eclat, a Beauty Blender, Chanel powder, (if required) and Lancome Effacernes concealer.

There is no denying, that make-up can be our best friend, if applied correctly and use the correct products. Make-up can enhance us and also play down the areas that we are not so comfortable with. Don't be afraid of experimenting a little and investing in yourself. Make-up is such a useful tool and a skill for life! (I have been working with lots of lovely ladies recently, on make-up lessons, all ages.) It always brings me such pleasure and is a real buzz when I make that person happy, just by applying a little bit of make-up, it can really boost someones' confidence and well being. Make-up, to me, is so much more than applying it, it has such a positive effect on a person. It really can make all the difference to your day. Heres a few examples of some make-up lessons and reviews too...

Bridal and Wedding / Get the look / Make-Up Lessons / Make-up tips / News & Events - 09/23/2015

Tina trying out the Pixiwoo hooded lids tutorial

Blog update!...

Things have been very hectic lately, (again!), ive been really busy with make-up trials and make-up lessons - the wedding season is in full flow it seems - this weekend I am working in Bedfordshire at Wyboston lakes for a wedding, and I have also recently taken on a wedding booking for Liverpool next month at the beautiful Knowsley Hall. I get to see so many lovely venues and work with such great people.

I have been doing lots of make-up lessons for ladies recently, for all ages - I even had one lady who was going to go for botox for her wedding, but after I did her makeup, she decided against it! It always gives me so much pleasure to give another lady such a gift, a gift of looking and feeling amazing. Make-up, to me, is so much more than just applying a bit of make-up, yes, it is also about knowing your craft/speciality and having lots of experience, but it is also about making that person feel good and look good and once you have all of those ingredients, then the women who leave my make-up studio leave happy and safe in the knowledge that they will be able to keep in touch with me and also be armed with all the products they need and new techniques they need to practise, so they can enhance their appearance naturally, and embrace what they have and work with it, instead of against. Make-up doesn't have to be heavy or unnatural - the best make-up is soft and pretty to enhance each individual, (some ladies like their make-up dramatic, each lady is different and unique, and therefore should be treat as such.)

I have also been travelling about recently, I had a great trip to London to see the Alexander McQueen, Savage Beauty exhibition at the Victoria and Albert Museum, (my favourite place to go in London.) I have also been to Silverstone at the weekend too, (a Christmas present for my Husband! he loved driving the Ferrari and Aston Martin at 120 mph! my daughter and I loved watching him, so I would highly recommend, if you like that sort of thing or if your Husband does!)

I found the time to try out a new make-up look on myself - I often say I could do with a make-over myself! as I get so carried away doing everyone elses' make-up, I somehow forget about myself! So, I tried out the Pixiwoo hooded lids tutorial - I must say, as a Make-up artist, you never stop learning ever, so its great to watch Sam/Nic and keep updated and refreshed. I am as guilty as the next person as getting into a bit of a rut, but I do know what works for my face...and most importantly, what doesn't!

I have also been stocking up on false eyelashes, (I must have hundreds of pairs! - these always enhance the eyes and there is a pair for everyone for all ages nowadays - they are hugely popular.) I have also bought some new make-up products/skincare to add to my kit - I will try and blog about them soon.

Please get in touch if you want to book for this year - weekends are very limited now, and for next year too! I have already taken bookings for 2017 too. You can also follow me on Instagram, Pinterest and Twitter - stop by and say hello, (links on my homepage.)

Hope you enjoyed reading my blog and thank-you for taking the time to read, Tina xxx

Get the look / Make-Up Lessons / Make-up tips / News & Events / Prom Make-Up - 04/22/2015

How to treat/camouflage dark circles...

One of the most common concerns for the ladies that I meet are dark circles. Dark circles are different to an eye bag, and eye bag is a "sag" and no amount of make-up can conceal this, (I will blog about this hopefully on a later date.) There may be different causes for the dark circles, one could be hereditary even. All is not lost, as we have my secret weapon of choice...make-up!

Firstly, you do have to make sure you are getting enough sleep, eating well and drinking plenty of water. Next, comes skincare advice...

To fade the dark pigmentation underneath they eye area a great eye cream is RoC Retinol correxion eye cream, it has a vitamin A derivative and increases the collagen too, (but don't apply too much too often.) There is a prescription formula called Renova, with low retinoid content too.

Choose a correct make-up remover and don't rub too much, this will cause inflammation and capillary damage. I use Bioderma Crealine H20 or Bobbi Brown cleansing oil. Never wash your face with hot water either, this can irritate.

For creams - look for brightening ingredients, such as Arbulin, kojic acid, licorice, vitamin c or daisy extract. (The gold standard is a prescription cream with hydroquinone in, but it maybe quite irritating.)

Make-up wise - for an instant vanishing act a corrector and creamy concealer are the only things that will camouflage this, (I know all too well!) The correct ones will make you look younger and well rested. The best ones have more coverage and don't wear off.

Use 2 shades to camouflage - a peachy toned one first, (the corrector) - this neutralises the blue/grey underneath the eye. Apply in thin layers on the actual darkness itself, not too close to your lashes, as it will crease, apply in light layers and build them up. I like to use a clean brush for the corrector and concealer, (try a Real Techniques detail brush or LY08 brush by Louise Young.) Next, apply the concealer which needs to be creamy, again, in light layers over the corrector. You can pat gently with your finger too, but don't wipe it away, just gently pat. Corrector wise I either use a Bobbi Brown one or the Laura Mercier one in the Secret Camouflage palette. For concealer, again, Bobbi Brown and Laura Mercier.

Apply a small amount of yellow-based loose powder, (very minimally, as you don't want it to settle in any fine lines. To be honest, I don't do this step on myself, as the concealer tends to last well enough.)

If you find it is creasing during the day, rehydrate with an eye cream - I love using Lancôme Absolue Yeux.

Choose the right eyeshadow - a fine, shimmering nude cream eyeshadow works well on most skintones, as a base. Use an eye curler too.

Use a soft peach eye pencil along the bottom waterline, try Jouer eye clarifier, this disguises any redness and makes you look less tired.

Of course, more make-up techniques need to be followed to compliment this to enhance you.

I hope you have enjoyed reading this and don't forget to leave a comment on my Facebook or Twitter, thanks! x

Bridal and Wedding / False Eyelashes / Get the look / Make-Up Lessons / Mature Ladies Make-Up / News & Events - 04/11/2015

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