22 July 2019
#AskAsh: Eyes Or Foundation First?
Q. Ash, any tips for oily skin in summer? Is my moisturiser making it worse? - @daisymontgomeryy
A. Surprisingly, often oily skin is lacking moisture - Without it, your skin gets sent into overdrive and overproduces oil to compensate. So, definitely don’t ditch the moisturiser! However, make sure you’re using an oil-free formula (Estee Lauder’s Oil-Free Creme is a good place to start) and allowing it to soak in fully before adding makeup, otherwise you might find your foundation slipping off. If you’re still struggling, try a weekly clay mask to draw out excess oil and impurities (I love Sand & Sky!), and use blotting papers throughout the day to keep yourself shine-free. You’ve got this!
Q. Ash, can you help explain acids? - @alexia_kaziani
A. I know the word acid sounds intimidating, but they’re actually powerhouse ingredients that can help clear, brighten, smooth or hydrate your complexion.
AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) and BHAs (beta hydroxy acids) are liquid exfoliants that slough off dead skin cells (an alternative to harsh scrubs), leaving you with brighter, clearer skin. The only difference between these two is oil solubility, as BHAs have the ability to penetrate the oil in your skin, while AHAs do not. This means that BHAs (salicylic acid is the only one you need to know) are well-suited to oil and spot-prone complexions and AHAs (glycolic and lactic acids are the most popular) are better for brightening and smoothing dry skin. Oily skin? Try Paula’s Choice’s blemish-busting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant. Want to dive into glycolic to combat a lacklustre complexion? Reach for cult-favourite Pixi Glow Tonic and you’ll never look back.
You may have also heard whisperings about hyaluronic acid, which is not actually an acid in the exfoliating sense, but a large molecule that lives in your skin and has the unique ability to hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water. By using masks, serums, primers and moisturisers that contain hyaluronic acid, you’ll attract moisture to your skin’s surface, creating a plump, healthy, hydrated complexion. Told you acids are great, didn’t I!
Q. Ash, I never know whether to do my eyes or foundation first? - @janey2702
A. I think it depends on how much eye makeup you’re wearing. If you’re going for a heavy, smokey eye, then it’s probably best to apply it before your foundation, so you can sweep away fallout and correct any mistakes without ruining your base - I’ve been there, it’s infuriating, and a total waste of makeup! If you’re just applying a subtle wash of colour, buffing this over your foundation should be fine and your base will work as a primer, keeping your shadow in place all day.
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