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Every year brings its own visual trends. From exaggerated eye makeup to cool colorways, there are aesthetic specifics that make each trip around the sun a memorable one. The same can be said for search trends: 2019 found people turning to Google for beauty-centric how-tos, particularly in terms of application. The top trending application-oriented search phrase of the year was “how to apply Color Street nails,” which Vogue registered in the form of the five-minute manicure—and it’s one that involves zero mess, clean up, or drying time. Here, our tips for the other top-five techniques you wanted to know most in 2019, according to Google’s trending searches for “how to...” in the beauty department.
How to Apply...Fake lashes
“Lashes are the last thing you put on before you go out at night and the first thing you take off when you get home,” M.A.C. Cosmetics senior artist John Stapleton says, suggesting that all makeup—mascara included—be applied pre-faux lashes. Keep your eyes open, look straight ahead, and use well-chosen glue and an applicator, rather than hands or tweezers, to place. For those who want fuller lashes without the “fuss” of full-on falsies, consider the slew of modern alternatives: extensions, perms, or a simple application of coconut oil.
How to Apply...Blush
No matter how the beauty landscape shifts, one truism remains: nothing enlivens a complexion quite like a proper swirl of blush. Naturally, seamless application begins with a dewy, well-moisturized complexion. When selecting the proper high-pigment hue, makeup artist Lucia Pica suggests considering the natural undertones of your skin: “Paler complexions are generally suited to softer pink colors, whereas olive, darker skin tones can take stronger colors like magenta or orange.” For a more natural look, take a tip from Beyoncé’s makeup artist, Sir John, and opt for shades no more than two to three shades darker than your natural (flushed) tone. And when in doubt: blend, blend, and blend some more.
How to Apply...Toner
Far from superfluous, toner provides dry complexions with an extra layer of hydration, while allowing for even more absorption when applied after serum and moisturizer. “Damp skin is 10 times more permeable than dry skin,” explains Austin-based aesthetician Renée Rouleau. “As long as you’re leaving it damp on the skin before immediately applying your next product, toners provide an instant boost of moisture to dehydrated cells and allow active ingredients to penetrate deeper.” In the ingredient arena, keep an eye out for formulas with hyaluronic acid, micro-algae, marine salicornia, and natural botanicals.
How to Apply...Liquid Foundation
Properly applied foundation should look like skin—not foundation. Similar to blush, the first step—after finding the ideal formula for your complexion, of course—is creating a flawless, perfectly prepped base through hydration and facial massage. Next, apply primer in areas prone to shine, buff color from the center of your face outward, blot, and set. Voila! Foundation that vanishes into your well-tended skin rather than sitting atop it.
