No matter which press presentation I attend, Amanda Rijff is always there. Positively, because she is incredibly fun and knows her stuff. She is a freelance make-up artist specializing in the ‘Flawless Face’, writes for various magazines and her own site makeuponyourmind.com, and is the head make-up artist for Laura Mercier available at Skins Cosmetics. So I think she is the right person to ask all questions about the party looks for NYE and the fresh face for the day after.
Morning ritual
“My secret in the morning consists of several things. I start with a glass of warm water and lemon juice and throw some vegetables and fruit into the slow juicer. That is not only good for your health but also for your skin. In the shower, I use Clarisonic to cleanse my skin and a morning cleanser from Eve Lom. Then I use various products, and it depends on the day which cocktail I put together. I am a big fan of the products from Yentl Oil, but also of the EFG serum from Bio Effect from Iceland. Additionally, I like to use the Magic Cream from Charlotte Tilbury, available at Selfridges, or the products from Natura Bissé. What I use depends on the needs of my skin. I always use a serum and a cream.”
5 minutes make-up
“I always use a primer. It ensures that my make-up stays put. I make a mixture of a foundation from Tom Ford and a Luminessence CC Cream from Armani and then apply a cream blush from Lipstick Queen. For mascara, I use a growth booster. The one from By Terry works really well. My lashes have really become a lot longer because of it. I find eyebrows very important. I use a pencil from Laura Mercier for that. It also contains a kind of wax gel that keeps the hairs in place. Furthermore, I can't do without a highlighter. I always use the Glow Up from Ellis Faas nowadays. I apply it with a fan brush made of goat hair and nylon. This gives you a polished effect. On my lips, I apply a lipstick from Armani. I believe I have about 100 of those.’
Eyebrows or lashes
“Eyebrows can make or break your face. They are really the most important. Fill them in, but don’t make them too dark. If you do it right, it can work as a natural facelift. For lashes, an invisible eyeliner can also work well. You use it by drawing a line between your lashes. I am a big fan of it, and it works for everyone.’’
Favorite perfume
“I can't live without my Orange Sanguine from Atelier Cologne. It smells like orange in its purest form. I take it everywhere and it really gives an uplifting effect. It makes me happy immediately. For my work, I travel a lot and often sleep away from home. I always spray a bit of the scent around the room, then I feel at home right away. When I have someone in my make-up chair, I always put a bit on my hands and I can see people visibly relax. When I feel like it, I make a cocktail of Orange Sanguine and Escentric Molecules.’’
Flawless Face
‘’A Flawless Face actually means that you are made up without looking like it at the base. The base is very important, and a primer is a must. Then you apply a foundation that closely matches your complexion and responds to the needs of your skin. A concealer under your eyes takes a few years off. Apply it in a V-shape from the inner to the outer corner of your eye towards your cheek and then blend it out a bit.’’
Party Look
“For a party look, you have to dare to think outside the box. Think of feathers in eyelash extensionss. M.A.C has very nice ones. Another really cool look is the inverted smoky eye with glitter. Apply a concealer well under your eyes and draw a line in the waterline with a black kohl pencil. Blend this downwards and then stamp some glitter under your eye with your ring finger.’’
Day After
“Start the day with a beet juice and a rescue mask from Eve Lom. The Rescue Mask tightens the pores and stimulates blood circulation. This makes you look a bit healthier right away.’’
Million Dollar Tip
“Maybe not very exciting, but I really can't do without primer anymore. Many people don’t know what it does and therefore don’t buy it. But a primer gives your skin a boost and works protectively. It keeps dirt out and makes a world of difference.’’
Biggest Style Icon
‘’From a make-up technical perspective, I like to digitally look over Pat McGrath's shoulder. She is so creative and inspiring. In terms of beauty, I find Kate Moss really an icon. In some ways, she is not pretty, but that makes her intriguing. That makes her very beautiful. I also find Grace Coddington an amazing personality. She is also not pretty, but a beautiful person.’’
