M.A.C cosmetics are for ‘all races, all ages, and all sexes’. This is essential
to their ethos. As Terry Barber, senior M.A.C London make up artist explains:
“We don’t have specific ranges for different types of skin, like for black skin, we simply have a colour palette that covers every conceivable shade, depth and texture. Our make up is designed for everyone. Our foundation is the most global skin range you’ll find. From black skin to Asian and Middle Eastern as well as white - and with choices for each.”
We spoke to Terry about why he loves working with M.A.C products. “It’s very
natural make up that extends to the very dramatic. It’s clean, sharp and fresh.
I also think we do the best products for black skin.”
Bestselling M.A.C cosmetics include Lip Glass - this gives that mirrored effect you’ll see on the lips of Kylie, Sophie Ellis Bexter and other glammies in pop vids, Studio Tech foundation that makes any skin look perfect, and Strobe Cream moisturiser - for both men and women - which “instantly make you look about 12 years old” claims the make up guru.
Thanks to the M.A.C Aids Fund and their Viva Glam lipsticks, the company has raised $27 million for HIV support too. That’s why they won the UKC Corporate Hero Award, in fact (see page 16). There are now four Viva Glam lipsticks available across the world and as Terry raves: “Viva Glams are great colours and they work with all skin tones. They are a must-have.” From R’n’B stars like Mary J Blige and Beverley Knight to pop/rock icons Shirley Manson (Garbage) and Elton John, an impressive rosta of celebs endorse M.A.C products.
Terry Barber himself has personally done make up for a long list of celebrities and models including Kylie, Robbie Williams and most recently our very own Liza Minnelli, for her Graham Norton appearance to promote the UKC Hero Awards.
“She was the most famous person I’ve done make up for and she was adorable!” says Terry.
Viva Glams I, II, III, IV £11. (In red, mauve-pink, plum-brown, and frosted rose). Lip Glass £9.50, Studio Tech foundation £22.00, Strobe Cream £18.50. Mac Shops are in London and major department stores. For details, visit: www.maccosmetics.com
 We asked Terry Barber some questions prepared by one of our readers (from Zambia and living in London): Sometimes I get hot flushes and sweat easily. What is best, foundation or face powder or no make up? Terry: Ideally none! But obviously there are times when you have to wear it. It's ok to use our oil-based foundation - it's waterproof and gives sheer cover. Actually, it's a myth that you should avoid oil-based products and only use water-based ones. I also recommend our Blot Powder, this helps remove moisture without rubbing off make up - specially designed for oil absorbency. My upper lip is darker than the lower lip - should I buy lipstick to match the lower lip or the upper lip and/or how can I get an even colour? Terry: I would say balance the bottom to the top, ie balance the colour to the darker shade. Even out the lips first by using a lip pencil - I suggest our Chestnut lip liner. This is a neutral colour for the darker skin. Then put on your lipstick - any shade - on top. I find the smudge of lipstick on glasses and cups unsightly, is there a smudge-free lipstick? Terry: Hah! There's no such thing as a smudge-free lipstick I'm afraid. But if you're worried, go for a matt texture. blot the lips before you sip and then re-apply often. I like champagne glasses with a tinge of red lipstick on anyway! Sometimes I get a rash as a reaction to my drugs - it makes my foundation look peely and cracked. Do you advise no foundation on uneven skin? Terry: Apply a good moisturiser under your foundation. Moisture Feed is great, it's a rich cream that will sink in and make your foundation seep in better. It also gives a more velvety look. Don't overdo the powder. You try our Blot Films - little sheets of paper that will pick up moisture but not make up - instead of powder. |
You don’t need eyes to see, you need vision...But a little clear-sightedness
does help. Teabags, cucumber and witch hazel are still the favourites to soothe
sore eyes from modern-day stresses and strains. The Fresh Eyes range from Optrex
includes everything you need - eye wash, drops, and masks - and all contain the
natural plant extract, witch hazel. Boots Cooling Eye Pads are great if you’re
in a hurry, and there are a myriad of eye packs, gels, and drops to choose from
out there. Check out Oscar & Dehn for the sexiest eyecare look.
If
your eyes are prone to puffiness, Zirh Herbal Eye Repair
is a natural cooling eye gel (with cucumber, chamomile and calendula as soothing
agents) that uses a dash of caffeine to shrink puffiness and fade dark eye-rings.
Or you could try the herbal supplement, Eyebright.
This is well known as a leaf powder that has anti-inflammatory and astringent
properties and is especially helpful for conjunctivitis (but don’t use if pregnant).
For the whites of the eyes, a little drop of Eye Dew can bring back the sparkle.
And sleep, sleep, sleep.
Optrex Fresh Eyes Eye Wash & Bath £3.89, Drops £3.69, Eye Masks £4.69, Single
Use Vials £2.69.
Boots Eye Cooling Pads £3.99. Zirh Herbal Eye Repair £22.00 from Boots and good
department stores, Oscar & Dehn Eye Therapy £8.00 visit: www.oscardehn.com
Eyebright £3.35 from Holland & Barret, Eye Dew £3.75 from Boots and other stores.
Remember it’s No Smoking Day on Wednesday 12 March Visit: www.nosmokingday.org.uk
