The perfect hair and make-up cheat sheet for braving the heat

Contrary to common belief, applying make-up doesn’t mean turning oneself into a human pastry

KARACHI: We can understand if even the mere thought of going out in the scorching heat makes you dizzy. At a time of the year when all you want is nothing but the lightest fabrics and the most effortless styling, following latest hair and make-up trends is a little too much to ask for. The Express Tribune brings you the perfect cheat sheet for an on-point summer look with a seal of approval from some of the best in business.

Make-up

Contrary to a common misconception, applying make-up doesn’t mean turning oneself into human pastry. Light, subtle and breathable is the way to go this season. According to make-up artist and salon owner Raana Khan, “The summer 2016 look should be fresh and make-up should be perfectly blended and contoured.”

Perhaps, you’re thinking, easier said than done. So, how exactly does one remain fresh when the mercury continues to rise? Raana has the answer. “Your look can remain fresh if you cleanse your face properly in the morning before wearing make-up. During the day, you can apply ice on your face for instant freshness and glow. Wear less foundation so that the pores can breathe.” She says this is a tried-and-tested technique for round-the-clock freshness.





Depilex - Beauty Clinic and Institute Creative Director Redah Misbah also advises to keep things simple. “A single shimmery shade all over the lid, heavy mascara, bold brows and bright lips make the perfect look for the season,” she says. For formal events that take place in the evening, Redah mentions false eyelashes are all the rage these days. “There are some really natural-looking ones available out there. One of my favorite things to do when taking my day look to the evening is putting on some falsies.”

Misbah, too, thinks keeping your face cleansed is essential. On the other hand, she stresses staying hydrated to look as fresh as a daisy. “It is very important to cleanse in the morning and at night and drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration,” she maintains.

Hair

Needless to say, the hot and humid weather is an absolute nightmare for your hair. To get your mane to behave, it is imperative to choose your styling products with care. “It is important to see what your hair needs. Always apply a heat protective product before you use any styling equipment. Treat your hair to a deep conditioning treatment at least twice a week and use good quality products. The investment is worth it,” shares Redah.

She adds that hair-care protocol for the season should include regular washing to avoid oil build-up, conditioning if the hair is coloured, and oiling at least once a week to repair damage and retain moisture. In terms of styling trends, Misbah says, “Straightened locks have made a huge comeback, so matte textures and lots of nano-lights would be an interesting pick for the summer.”



Toni&Guy Karachi CEO Creative Artistic Director Saeeda Mandviwalla favours creative hair-dos and textures. Top knots at the crown, sculptured twisted braids, ruffled bobs and shorter fringes are her weapons of choice. “You may also opt for ponytails with wild textures for volume, and messy-looking mermaid waves,” she adds. To her, hair game this summer is all about “the minimalist meeting the maximalist”.

She also mentions the trend of ultra-short, choppy haircuts, as seen at fashion shows these days. “There’s a new breed of supermodels taking to the ramps. They’re fierce and not afraid to show skin. If you are not brave enough for the full undercut then there are other options. You could opt for undercut at the sides or the base of the hairline,” she says.

Raana somewhat agrees with Saeeda when it comes to experimenting with hair-dos.

“Half-top bun, short concave bobs and textured long hair are all trending now,” she chimes in.

Published in The Express Tribune, May 13^th, 2016.

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