Imagine a life without Google. No, seriously. Imagine not being able to find out who that-actor-in-that-film was or how long to boil an egg for by doing a quick search. I use Google multiple times a day, for everything from directions to beauty tips – and I’m not the only one. In 2019, there were 3.3 million beauty-related searches in Europe alone. What were people searching? Well, we’ve got the questions (and the answers).
By Beth Ludolf
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1 What is hair toner?
Toner is used after colouring to personalise the shade – making it warmer or cooler – and correct any unwanted tones, like brassiness. It can also be used to create pastel shades (but only if you’re blonde). While toner only lasts around 6 weeks it can be topped up between colouring appointments to keep hair looking fresh.
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2 How to curl hair with straighteners
So, you want to crack the Da Vinci Code? We’ve got you. Grab a round-barrelled flat iron and take a section of hair around 1-inch wide. Clamp the hair with the straightener a couple of inches down from the root. Twist the straightener away from the face and begin to pull the hair through. Leave the hair to cool before loosening the curls with your fingers. Practise makes perfect, we promise.
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3 What is microblading?
Microblading is basically a semi-permanent tattoo for your brows. Fine, hair-like strokes are added in sparse areas to give the illusion of fuller brows. It uses a tool – which resembles a pen – with 10-12 super fine needles to create delicate strokes. Do needles equal pain? Yes, but it’s not too bad. In fact, it feels just like a scratch. Depending on your skin, microblading can last up to 3 years.
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4 How to cut your own hair
If you’re thinking about doing a little DIY, there are a few things you need to know before you grab the scissors. Firstly, hairstylists have dedicated tools for the job at hand. Kitchen scissors won’t give you the same sleek chop, believe me. Also, getting an even cut at the back of the head is a major challenge (especially if your hair is short). Some things are best left to the professionals.
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5 How to contour
Contouring has changed a lot since it bolted into our consciousness – and Instagram feeds – in 2014. The heavy, chiselled look has given way to a more natural take. Contouring 2.0, if you will. The same principles apply; blend shadow to the hollows of the cheeks, jawline and temples and add highlight to the highpoints (cheekbones, browbone). Remember, match the tone to that of your skin (cool on cool, warm on warm).
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6 What are HD brows?
It’s a 7-step brow treatment giving you – you guessed it – highly defined brows. There’s a consultation stage (it’s a very serious matter) to map out your brows. The process uses custom-blend tint – to pick up fair hairs and make brows appear fuller – and waxing, threading and tweezing to perfect the shape. If you’re a perfectionist, this is the brow treatment for you.
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7 How to apply eyeshadow
First things first, brushes. Good ones will do the hard work for you. Apply eyeshadow primer or concealer set with loose powder to prime your eyelids. Use a fluffy brush to add a transition shade – slightly darker than your skin tone – through your crease (this gives everything a base to blend into) then layer shadows – lightest to darkest. The key? Blend, blend, blend – using windscreen wiper and circular motions and a light hand.
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8 How to get hair dye off skin
I distinctively remember the dark, blotchy stains around my hairline from my box-dye-days *shivers*. Hair dye stains are stubborn and annoyingly difficult to remove. If you are doing a home-dye-job, prevention is much easier so apply a barrier cream (like Vaseline). As for removal, apply some non-gel toothpaste and scrub gently with a clean toothbrush. We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again, some things are best left to professionals.
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9 How to grow your hair
For hair to grow, it needs to be healthy – damaged hair is prone to breakage – so you know what that means. Yep, avoiding heat-styling as much as possible and categorically no bleach. Your diet can also affect hair-health so make sure you’re getting enough protein, vitamins and minerals (or start taking supplements). Getting regular trims will keep hair looking healthy, which makes it look longer. But don’t worry too much – blunt-cut bobs are in.