In episode five of Get Ready with Me, makeup artist and former fashion model Dennis Karuri takes us through his guide to achieving a bold festival-glam look. And it all begins with taking good care of your skin. As Karuri explains, the first step in applying makeup is ensuring that your skin is well moisturized.
Based in Nairobi, the self-taught makeup artist discovered his passion for the beauty industry in college, while studying for a degree in Agribusiness Economics and Food Industry Management. “I first experienced makeup in my second year on campus when I joined modelling,” he told People Daily. Karuri counts Danessa Myricks and Lipsticknick as some of the people who inspire him.
In this episode, Karuri reveals his beauty secrets and tips for attaining a festival-approved makeup look.
1. PRIMER: Fenty Pro Filt’r Hydrating Face Primer
First things first is a primer to help prep your skin. Available in different formulas such as hydrating and mattifying, finding one that works for you will depend on your skin type. The Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Hydrating Primer is lightweight and made to work best with normal, oily or dry skin.
Pro-Tip: “I like starting from the inner corners of my face, those are the under eyes, the nose bridge, the front of my forehead above my lip and on my chin. So, I’m going to blend that with my fingertips,” says Karuri
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2. CONCEALER: Fenty Pro Filt’r Instant Retouch Concealer
A concealer hides “yesterday’s mistakes” as Karuri puts it. This includes covering dark eyes, blemishes and spots. Known as one of Fenty Beauty’s best-selling products, the Pro Filt’r Instant Retouch Concealer is available in 50 shades so there’s something for everyone.
Pro-Tip: “I’ll place it especially concentrated towards the inner corner of my eyes,” says Karuri.
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3. FOUNDATION: Pat McGrath Labs Skin Fetish: Sublime Perfection Foundation
Available in some inclusive shades, Pat McGrath Labs Skin Fetish: Sublime Perfection Foundation lasts for 12 hours which means it will stay on for a long time whether you’re at a festival or in the office. McGrath, who has been referred to as the most influential makeup artist in the world, developed her incredible range from her 25 years of industry experience.
Pro-Tip: Apply the foundation with your hands before blending it in with a beauty blender sponge.
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4. POWDER: Danessa Myricks Beauty Evolution Powder
Evolution Powder by Danessa Myricks is both “lightweight and translucent” and is made to absorb oil and reduce shine. What’s convenient about it is that the powder can be used under and over your foundation as an oil control primer or to set and finish your makeup.
Pro-Tip: Reduce the shine by going in with some powder. “The best way to blend your powder is by dabbing,” says Karuri.
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5. LIPSTICK: Juvia’s Place Bronzed Mini Liquid Lipstick
Not all lipstick work as eye shadows but Juvia’s Place Bronzed Mini Liquid Lipstick known for its cream and velvet texture is one to consider. Not only are they waterproof but they are also long-lasting and come in three subdued shades including Bronzed Maple and Bronzed Chestnut.
Pro-Tip: Use it as a base for your eyeshadow and to complete your look with bright-coloured and moisturized lips.
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6. MASCARA: Zaron Wink 4-in-1 Mascara
For perfect lashes to compliment your look, Zaron’s 4-in-1 waterproof mascara can add both volume and length for a defined festival-glam result.
Pro-Tip: Put on your mascara at the end as the last step.
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7. EYESHADOW: Juvia’s Place The Nubian 2 Eyeshadow Palette
A big part of festival makeup constitutes vibrant colours that stand out and The Nubian 2 Eyeshadow Palette by Juvia’s Place does just that. Featuring a combination of matte and metallic colours with shimmering textures, this eyeshadow has the power to transform your everyday style.
Pro-Tip: Karuri starts by adding Mac’s Powder Kiss Lipstick before going in with orange eyeshadow.
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8. EYELINER: UOMA Beauty Afro.Dis.Iac Liquid Eyeliner
An intense eyeliner adds a solid detail that makes the eyes pop. Uoma Beauty’s liquid eyeliner is water-resistant and is designed with an ultra-fine tip for effortless application.
Pro-Tip: Lightly draw your eyeliner from the upper lashes.
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