It can be applied using a loose, angled brush in sweeping motions to ensure even coverage. For a more intense colour, dampen the brush first. As a traditional look, it should be applied to the cheeks. First, sweep through the blush using the brush then tap off any excess to prevent applying too much in one place. Then, apply the blusher in sweeping, downwards motions along the cheek. This will add a pop of colour and brighten the face without being overpowering. The exact placement of the colour will depend on the shape of the face and personal preference. It can also be applied higher up on the temples for a more dramatic look. For a classic flush of colour, apply to the apples of the cheeks which is the fullest part of the cheeks.

Contouring:

The Beauty Without Cruelty blusher is easy to use for contouring as it contains two colours that complement each other perfectly. To do this, sweep the darker colour just under the cheekbones to cast a shadow and create the illusion of depth. For a more dramatic look, apply more layers, making sure to tap any excess product off the brush first to avoid applying too much in one place. Next, pull the lighter shade across the high point of the cheekbones to highlight them. Make sure to blend the colours into each other slightly with a brush or fingertips to avoid any harsh lines appearing and ruining the look.

Monochromatic look:

Because of the soft, easy to blend texture of the blusher, they can also be used as an eyeshadow. The darker colour could be used all over the lid or to contour the eye in the crease and outer corner. To do this simply apply the lighter colour all over the lid and the darker colour just in the outer corner and the crease. The lighter shade could be used to add dimension and highlight on the brow bone and the inner corner of the eye. Blusher can also be used to colour the lips to match the colour on the cheeks and eyelids. To do this it could either be dabbed on using a brush over the top of a clear lip gloss, or crushed and added in to a gloss or balm. When worn together, this creates a monochromatic look which is a hot trend because of its simplistic yet glam look. Try this using the shade Sweet Apricot for a simple summer look.

Last but not least – if you are proud of your efforts please do share with us either on Instagram, twitter, or facebook!

The most natural looking and easy way to recreate that perfect brow is with a pencil and a spoolie (brush). A wax pencil is more accurate than powder and can be sharpened to recreate even the finest hairs. Choose a shade similar to your hair colour but either one or two shades darker if you have light hair, or lighter if you have dark hair. For red heads choose a red based mid shade.

First, the shape. Look for the imaginary heart shape around your nose and eyes as shown in the picture. This will help with the overall shape you are aiming for. Determining the style that suits you best depends on the overall shape of your face; uneven brows can be adjusted for a more symmetrical effect. For example, more sharply angled arches can bring more definition to a round face, but is too elongating for a long thin face which works better with a wider, flatter brow. Aim for a balanced heart shape that’s fits your face. Remember, brows are sisters not twins, so don’t worry if they are not completely identical, and it can make them look more natural.

The inner edge of your eye brows starts roughly parallel with the edge of your nose ‘button’ (A-B, C-D), whilst the outer edge forms a line through the middle of your nose at the base and the outside edge of your nose (E-F, E-G). For the arch, take a line from the base of your nose (E), through your pupil (E-H, E-I). Sounds technical, but it works!

Let the pencil do the rest! First use the spoolie to encourage all the hair to lie smoothly. Fill in any gaps with very light short strokes. Finally, colour the brows holding the pencil on its side for more control with short light strokes in the direction the hair grows. The Beauty Without Cruelty Brow Liners are extremely responsive so only a light touch is needed. Build colour on the hair very slowly as it is easy to over do it! Hair nearer the nose tends to be a little more vertical than hair nearer the ears. Tail the colour away towards the outside edge. Finally use the spoolie again to blend and shape. Any errors can be removed with a cotton bud. The Beauty Without Cruelty Angled Eye Liner Brush can be useful for softening the brush strokes and helping to define the outline.

For a more sophisticated finish, you can use the Beauty Without Cruelty Brow & Lip Pencil. This is a clear wax pencil which works as a primer, shaper and neatens up edges afterwards. Stroked gently over the top of your finished brows it can help to make them last longer, sealing the colour from the brow pencil.

Beauty Without Cruelty Pure Mineral Foundation Powder is an incredibly easy to use loose powder ideal for all skin types, and especially sensitive, oily and acne prone skin. The powder adheres to naturally occurring oils rather than moisture which means it does not cause dryness, but instead leaves skin feeling soft and smooth. The powder finds its way into fine lines creating a smoother natural looking complexion, whilst sitting lightly on the surface for flawless coverage. Foundation Powder provides shine control whilst retaining a healthy-looking glow. The powder is non-comedogenic and contains only pure minerals, free from Talc and Titanium Dioxide.

Loose powder offers greater versatility for application and is neatly held in a twist close container with a puff that prevents powder seepage. The powder can be used to build colour with the puff provided or a cosmetic powder brush. Mix with water or light moisturiser to make a liquid foundation. It can be used for blush and eye shadow too. For a perfect match try mixing shades together or overlaying one and another! The foundation creates a great finish, but of course is also a great base for other products such as setting powder!

How to choose

As a rule of thumb warm skin tones suit a peach or yellow based powder whilst cool skin tones suit a pinky based powder. If you’re not sure, look at the veins on the underside of your wrist. Blue veins indicate a cool undertone, whilst greenish veins indicate warm. However, hair colour can also affect the best shade for you. Hold the powder under your chin and compare the shade. One shade darker than your under-chin shade is fine. The powders can be mixed or overlaid for finer personalisation.

How to Use

After cleansing and moisturising the skin ensuring a clean dry base, apply concealer to small blemishes and under eyes. The powder can be applied with the puff supplied, a damp cosmetic pad for denser colour or a powder brush. The Beauty Without Cruelty Compact Mineral Powder Brush is ideal as the flat cut allows maximum effective application. The density of the powder brush will affect the application density.

Complete one side of the face first. In good light swirl a small amount of powder onto your selected applicator, and start applying the powder with short patting motions, pressing the powder gently onto your skin. This ensures maximum adherence. It works well to start on the forehead and work down to the chin and just under the jawline to avoid a tide line. Keep pressing the powder onto the skin until the desired effect is achieved. It’s worth spending a little time on this before matching the other side. Avoid putting powder just under the eye area as this can look unnaturally cakey. Finish your make up as you prefer – its fine to use a setting powder over the top as well as blusher for definition.

• Suitable for all skin types especially sensitive, oily and acne prone skin
• Creates a super soft smooth appearance
• Mixable and versatile
• Talc and Titanium Dioxide free
• Economical and long lasting - on skin and shelf life
• Easy to apply
• Puff included with twist close pot

WINGED EYELINER

First, draw a thin line from the inner to the outer corner of the eyelid, keeping close to the lash line. To make the wing, draw a small line starting from the outer corner and following the curve of the lower lash line. Next, connect the tip of the wing to create a triangle shape. Try making the line thicker to make the look stand out more. The key to this look is having the sharpest wing tip possible so neaten up any uneven edges with a cotton bud.

DOUBLE WINGED EYELINER

To create this look, first draw a simple winged eyeliner. Next, use the ink liner to draw along the bottom lash line, starting about a third of the way along.Extend the line upwards, remaining parallel to the bottom of the wing but keeping a small gap between the two. This line should be the same length of the wing or slightly shorter. Slightly thicken the line whilst ensuring it remains pointed. Try switching up the look by using varying lengths and thicknesses. One look to try is the fishtail which can be created by drawing curved wings that point in opposite directions.

To create a smudged look, create a wing using the Ink Liner then add a small amount of black eyeshadow over the lash line. Keep the bottom of the wing sharp and straight. To take this look even further, try using a shimmering eyeshadow or adding glitter. Feeling brave? The Ink Liner is perfect for experimenting with exciting and bold looks. The fine felt tip makes it easy to draw precise lines. Test out different shapes for a brave new look.


The intense black pigment is plant based, made from charcoal powder which comes from oak. Creating a glossy black effect that will outlast the night, this liner also contains no iron oxide or carbon black. A fine felt tip brush makes applying the liner fast and easy. It also allows you to draw precise and thin lines, perfect for experimenting with new looks.

Before you begin, make sure you’re sitting comfortably. To keep a steady hand and make a straight line, try placing your elbow on the surface in front of you for balance. For a simple look, start at the inside corner of the eyelid and move outwards. If you’re worried about keeping it even, try drawing dots first and then joining them up to complete the look. Remember, keep your hand steady but only use light pressure when applying. Using too much force could result in smudging. Slightly pulling the outer corner of the eye can also help keep the line straight. Try to stay as close to the lash line as possible and add a coat or two of our Ultimate Conditioning Mascara to complete the look. To avoid unsightly smudging, keep your eyes closed for as long as possible whilst the eyeliner dries. Clean up any bumpy edges with a cotton bud or a small brush.

To create a more dramatic look, try developing into winged eyeliner. This is created by adding a wing to the outer corner of the eye. To do this, first draw a thin line from the inner to the outer corner of the eye. To make the wing, draw a small line staring from the outer corner, following the slant of the eye. Next, connect the tip of the line. Increase the thickness of the line to add drama and make the look stand out more. The key to this look is having the sharpest wing tip possible, so neaten up any uneven edges with concealer and an angled brush. This can be worn alone or over any colour eyeshadow, depending on the desired finish.

The Ink Liner can be used to create any number of looks ranging from very simple to very daring. One idea to try is a double winged eyeliner. This can be done by first creating a simple winged eyeliner. Next, use the Ink Liner to draw a line along the bottom lash line, starting about 2/3 of the way along the eye and continuing outwards. The line should remain parallel to the bottom of the wing, keeping a small gap between the two. Extend the line to the same length as the wing or slightly shorter. Use a small brush and concealer to neaten up any bumpy edges. Switch up the look by using varying thicknesses and lengths.

To create a smudged look, try applying creating a wing with the Ink Liner then adding a small amount of black eyeshadow over the top. Use a small fluffy brush to lightly smudge the eyeshadow across and above the top of the wing. Keep the bottom line smooth and sharp for definition. To take this look even further, try using a shimmering eyeshadow.

Feeling brave? The Ink Liner is perfect for experimenting with exciting and bold looks. The thin felt tip makes precise application a breeze and allows for the thinnest of strokes. An easy way to begin is changing the length and angle of your winged eyeliner. This can change the shape of the eye and accentuate different features. Experimenting with this will help you find the look that suits your eye shape the best. For example, if you have rounded eyes, you may want to try elongating the wing.

Once dry, this eyeliner will not budge, making it perfect for everyday wear as well as for special occasions.

Ombre Lips are a simple but high impact look, as well as being one of the easiest lips to wear. Traditionally, this effect has been used to contour the lips and make them appear fuller and plumper by using a darker colour at the edges and a lighter one in the centre. However, due to the recent impact of Korean beauty looks, there is also the reverse to consider. This look involves using a darker, brighter colour in the centre which is then blended out to a much lighter colour. This creates a unique and cute ‘just eaten a strawberry’ look.

Step 1 - Line the lips
Step 2 - Use the darker lip shade first
Step 3 - Fill in with the lighter shade
Step 4 - Blend well

To create the more traditional Ombre lip look, first choose the two different lipstick colours that you will use. In the example we have used Natural Infusion Matte Moisturising Lipstick Cocktail Dress and Sweet Subtlety. These are quite different shades, but similar colours could be used as well as in the example below. To create the look, use a lip liner in a darker shade (Morello) to outline the lips. Next, use the darker lipstick shade (Cocktail Dress) and a lip brush to cover most of the lips, leaving out the centre. Using the lighter shade (Sweet Subtlety), fill in the centre with the brush and then blend the colours together. This should create a gradual effect that makes the lips appear fuller in the centre. Clear lip gloss could be added over the top to add shine and depth to the look.

Similar shades work well
Create drama with stronger shades
Try different shades on each lip
Reverse the ombre for a minimal effect

Another idea for two-toned lips is using different shades on the top and bottom lips. Two similar colours will create a simple look that is great for everyday use. For a bolder and brighter look, contrasting colours could be used. To create this look, simply choose two lipstick colours and apply one to the top and one to the bottom lip. Once they are on, rub lips together slightly to blend the colours but be careful not to overdo it. This will cause the colours to run into each other and mix rather than staying separate. To help set the lipstick and prevent the colours mixing during the day, blot using a tissue and apply a small amount of translucent powder using a finger. Make sure not to apply too much or the lips will end up dusty.

To create the newer Korean lip, first fill the lips in with concealer so that they are a similar shade to the rest of your face. Next, choose a lip colour to use. This could either be a lipstick or a gloss depending on your desired finished, for example, Soft Natural Lip gloss in the shade Rosewood Rave. Apply the chosen colour directly to the inner part of your lips to ensure that this is where the most colour is. Then use a small lip brush to drag and blend the colour outwards slightly. The finished look should have the brightest colour in the centre with almost nothing remaining at the edges.

Believe it or not it is perfectly possible to create beautiful nails at home, you just need the three important p’s: preparation, patience, and practise (and play)!

Prepare! 

Being prepared will make a big difference to the final result – and that also means allowing enough time! Nails do take a while to do properly, but it is worth it as the finished effect will not only be more satisfyingly better, but will last longer. Do make sure your work space is comfortable too, and you have other distractions whilst the nails are drying - we have all suffered from impatience and destroyed the hard work!

Gather your collection of serious nail application tools: Cotton wool balls (no bits dropping off like tissues), cotton buds (pointed ones are most helpful) and Kind Remover for cleaning, nails  clippers, file and cuticle stick for preparation, and treatments and colours required for the application – base coat, colours, top coat. Finally, cover your table with a protective layer.

Begin with a thorough clean even if you do not already have polish to remove. The bwc Kind Caring Remover will moisturise and nourish your nail plate as well as strip out old colour, dirt and oils and allow the nail colours to adhere more firmly. Carefully reshape and sand your nails into your desired style, whether square, rounded or pointed, long or short. Try to make all the nails the same! Use the cuticle stick to push back the cuticle – you may need to soak your fingers in warm water first to soften the skin – and don’t forget to thoroughly dry them afterwards! You may want to wipe over with the remover after this.  

Nearly to the fun part! However, you do need to start with a coat of clear base coat – use either the bwc Kind Caring Nails Base Coat or Hardener (or a thin coat of each is fine), or a coat of Attitude Nails Clear. This protects the nail plate and fills in any ridges so that the final effect is much smoother and more glass like.    

Pressing your fingers firmly onto the table to avoid excessive movement, apply as you would the nail colour ie three stripes (see below) but don’t worry about the edges, it’s clear so any mishaps won’t show! This coat must be completely dry before you apply any colour, so sit back and relax for a few minutes!

Patience! 

Ok, now consider your colours. For a simple effect, you will need two or three coats of your favourite shade. Consider that dark colours always make your nails look longer, but may be rather too dramatic if you have very pale skin. 

If you wear strong coloured lipstick, you might want to opt for something that matches or tones. 

Some colours will look better and have more depth if you paint your first coat in white like an undercoat– this covers the natural skin colour underneath and creates an even canvas for the colour. Obviously paler and pearly shades are the most affected, but even darker shades can look more intense and true.

Apply the first coat, again pressing your fingers firmly to the table (adjust for the thumb afterwards!).

The colour may need mixing in the bottle – warm and mix by rolling in your hands but don’t shake as this will create bubbles and spoil the coats. The best approach is to load the brush, then wipe off the excess on the inside rim of the bottle. Blob the remaining colour onto the nail just below the cuticle – this will act as a reservoir.  Colour is applied in three swipes down the length of the nail: Middle, then one side, then the other side, using the reservoir each time. Try to avoid the edges – a clean straight line looks better than a wobbly  one, and the gap won’t show. For the most professional effect, apply all coats very thinly, even if it means three coats are needed rather than two. Thin coats will dry more quickly  and all through whereas thicker coats may only  surface dry, and then the slightest knock and the colour smudges... (minor smudges are most effectively repaired with the touch of the tip of your tongue).

For short wide nails, you can accentuate the gaps at the sides and make the nails look longer and more elegant. If you do miss, use a cotton wool bud soaked with remover to carefully clean up once the layer is dry (a pointed one is easiest!). Allow the coat to dry completely which can take a few minutes, and then apply extra coats in the same way until you  are satisfied with the effect. 

Protect! 

When you are happy that your colour application is finished and fully dry, apply a coat of Kind Caring Nails Top Coat or Attitude Nails Clear in the same way as the colour, but make sure you put an extra swipe around the tips of your nails to help protect them from chipping and add strength to longer nails. For a contemporary sophisticated finish use bwc Kind Caring Nails Matte Top Coat – this gives an amazing flat matte finish and is very hard wearing! 

Practise! 

An obvious statement, but it does get easier! Once you have mastered simple single  colour effects, there are so many different styles that can be created. French Manicure for example…(to be continued!)

Last but not least – if you are proud of your efforts please do share with us either on  Instagram, @bwcv, or facebook!

The set is offered in three shades, Fair, Light or Medium, with a choice of loose or pressed finishing face powder. Included in all sets is a moisturising foundation, foundation brush, a face powder (pressed or loose) and puff.

The Beauty Without Cruelty Ultimate Foundation is a light, non-comedogenic formulation that is buildable and has special moisturising ingredients - moisture balancing Pentavitin combined with jojoba oil, avocado oil and vitamin E. It can be used without pre-moisturising, particularly if you have oily skin, and will leave your face feeling soft and hydrated all day.

The creamy formulation smooths on streak free, either with fingertips for a light coverage or with the bwc Foundation Brush (included) for a more even and professional looking finish (see our ‘how to apply foundation’ for a longer tutorial https://www.bwcshop.com/blog/how-to-apply-bwc-foundations/ ). Choose your shade by comparing it with your natural skin colour under the jaw line. If you tend to tan easily, choose Light as a more yellow based shade, whilst if you tend to burn, choose Fair or Medium which are more pink based.

Remember to gently wash and reshape the brush after use (without soaking it) – it will make it last longer and maintain its effectiveness.

Apply a light covering of your chosen finishing powder – pressed or loose – to set the foundation. The powder is translucent, and will enhance the appearance of the foundation. It also helps the foundation last longer, and helps to reduce shine, especially if you have oily skin. Finishing Powder can be applied with the puff as provided, or a Beauty Without Cruelty Luxury Powder Brush https://www.bwcshop.com/bwc-luxury-powder-brush/.

Choice of powder is personal – pressed is an easier handbag option for top ups which many people also find easier to use, whilst loose powder can be more versatile, as it is freer flowing!

Simple, quick and effective for a natural yet sophisticated looking finish!

The Face Basics Gift Sets can be found here: https://www.bwcshop.com/gifts/

The best make up trends are always the ones which are easy to do and look super effective. This year’s trend is about matching your manicure to your favourite lipstick. bwc has made this super possible with its new release of matchy-matchy lipsticks and nail varnishes. bwc have made matching cool again.

Still not convinced? Here are two make up matchy trends to get you started!

Natural Nude

Everyone can pull off that super subtle natural no make-up look, but rock it with one of bwc’s new nude matte lipsticks such as Koala Bare, a hint of blush and one of bwc’s new nude plant based nail colours from the Kind Colourful Nails Earth range such as Naked Bathing. You will look fresh and polished with bwc’s matchy matchy natural nude look.

http://www.bwcshop.com/natural-infusion-matte-moisturising-lipstick-koala-bare/

http://www.bwcshop.com/kind-colourful-nails-naked-bathing/

Rosey Posey

If you want to take your day look to evening, look no further than bwc’s new plummy shades. With lots to choose from you know you’ll be able to work your personal matchy-matchy. My favourite has got to be bwc’s new Matte Lipstick ‘Cocktail Dress’, matched with Kind Colourful Nails Smouldering Jealousy. You can go subtle and smooth or hot and feisty for the night with bwc’s glitzy evening colours, the choices are endless!

http://www.bwcshop.com/natural-infusion-matte-moisturising-lipstick-cocktail-dress/

http://www.bwcshop.com/kind-colourful-nails-smouldering-jealousy/

You could of course just try one of the new Beauty Without Cruelty Lip and Nail Kits which are great value at only £28!

http://www.bwcshop.com/gifts/

Don’t forget to share your matchy matchy with us on Instagram #bwcv or Facebook!

Happy matchy matching

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