How to be beauty smart Our Head of Beauty & Wellbeing reveals her daily skincare and makeup hacks

“Let your skincare absorb for 5-10 minutes before applying foundation to reap the full benefits of your skincare and to achieve the smoothest makeup application. In my rushed mornings, I’ll do my eye makeup first whilst letting my skincare set. When I’ve not gotten enough sleep I’ll throw on an eye mask while doing my eye makeup to rejuvenate tired eyes. As a bonus, the eye mask can catch any eye makeup that’s fallen off before you toss it.”

“To target various skin concerns on different parts of my face at the same time, multi-masking is the perfect solution. I use a detoxifying clay mask on my t-zone to tighten pores, and a moisturizing mask on my cheeks to hydrate any dry patches. I will usually skip liquid foundation and just go for a pressed powder which lets my natural complexion peek through. Chantecaille’s compact makeup has a natural finish, that gives the right amount of coverage, and good oil control for my combination skin. Find the right products for your skin, and you won’t need to layer on too much. Your skin will thank you later, especially during humid Hong Kong summers.

“Can’t master the perfect eyeliner? Fake it by tight lining with a liquid liner on the underside of the upper lashes, and then lightly pressing a smoky shadow or brow powder directly along the top to create a full-looking lash line. The trick is to keep everything as close to the lash line as possible to avoid looking overdone. This technique is virtually foolproof, and works for all eye shapes. My favourite product for this is Clé de Peau’s Intensifying liquid eyeliner. It’s long lasting and dual-ended, with a thin tip for more precise lines and a thicker brush end for more dramatic looks. If you like a fully rimmed look, use a gel pen or pencil to tight line the lower lid.”

“I can’t live without mascara. It really opens up the eyes and requires no time or skill. I always choose one with nourishing benefits, such as argan and camellia oils, which are great for protection and shine. Be sure to curl your lashes first, and when applying, focus on the outer edges to mimic a cat eye effect - no painstaking precision required. To achieve fullness and length without any clumps, make sure to run your wand from the very base of your lashes and fan out to the tips. Stick to a single coat and comb through immediately after with a lash brush.”

“In case I have a special event or big meeting, I’ll always carry a good red or plum colour with me - a bold lip is the easiest way to transform your look. I love Hourglass’ Girl Lip Stylo in Warrior and Giorgio Armani’s Lip Maestro in Sultan. On route to a meeting sans mirror? A nude lipstick will enhance the lips, and you can apply easily without needing to look at your reflection. My current perfect nude is Charlotte Tilbury’s Very Victoria.”

“After a busy day, masking can be a great de-stresser. If you’re like me and can’t always sit still long enough for a typical sheet mask, try Lancôme’s Advanced Génifique Hydrogel Face Mask. It acts as a second skin and sticks to every contour of your face, even if you’re up and about doing household chores. Aromatherapy is also an easy way to unwind. I love Aromatherapy Associates’ sleep and de-stress kits. Their oils also double up as fantastic moisturisers.”