A Makeup Artist Rates Beauty Tricks

Feeling adventurous?

A few weeks ago, we shared tips makeup artist Cynthia Di Meo has heard on set and online and asked whether she’d try them—the wild, the weird, and the surprisingly wonderful. This week, we’re back with more, and our community weighed in with a few of their own.

THE TRICK
When someone’s performing and might end up sweating (either from bright lights or movement), you can use translucent powder beneath liquid formulas for longer hold.THE VERDICT
This one definitely works. If skin is naturally oily or recently moisturized, liquids can slide off over time. Powder gives them something to hold onto.

THE TRICK
Here’s one I’ve seen floating around online: using self-tanner as semi-permanent contour, not only on the face but also on the abs and chest. Apparently, you can use it to create the illusion of a six pack or larger bust?THE VERDICT
It seems like it might be difficult to get a precise but seamless effect with self-tanning lotion, so I’m not sure how natural this really looks? But if it makes you feel good, do it!

THE TRICK
We used to save sugar packets and then use them on set. If you mix them with Vaseline, you get a nice little lip exfoliator—great prep, especially before applying a deep or bold color.THE VERDICT
I’m all for this trick! Sure, there are fancy lip exfoliators out there, but this one’s cheap, it’s easy, and it works.THE TRICK
This is an old-school one: aerosol hairspray to lock makeup in place.THE VERDICT
No. Just no. I get why this might have seemed necessary in the days before setting sprays, but there’s no reason to use hairspray on your face in 2026!COMMUNITY TRICK #1
I sometimes sandwich my eyelashes between two clean spoolies after putting on mascara to get rid of any stubborn clumps!THE VERDICT
Yes, this can be a good idea. A clean spoolie can help remove clumps and separate lashes for a more natural finish. If your mascara starts to set before you can comb through it, I recommend working one eye at a time or combing through immediately after application for best results.

COMMUNITY TRICK #2
If you have a makeup spot where your makeup is coming off, Always an Optimist 4-In-1 Mist, apply Always an Optimist Weightless Eye Primer, and then foundation and powder for just that spot.THE VERDICT
Interesting idea! I haven’t tried this technique myself, but I can see the logic behind it. I’m curious to see whether the eyelid primer changes the finish compared to simply touching up the spot with foundation. It also depends on how the eye primer is applied—I’m thinking a fluffy eyeshadow brush to gently apply a thin layer might help keep the repair seamless. I’m not mad at this idea and will have to test it myself, especially around the nose where makeup tends to wear off first.COMMUNITY TRICK #3
Before I discovered “puppy liner,” which is so much more flattering for my hooded eyes (and easier to get even!!), I used to use washi tape for my eyeliner. It’s a lot gentler and would give good results for a cat eye! (But honestly nothing beats a pointed Q-Tip and micellar water.)THE VERDICT
I agree! Nothing beats a Q-Tip and micellar water for clean up! If you want even sharper lines, try using a small flat brush dampened with micellar water. I know a lot of people love to use tape, but I personally find it more time consuming trying to get the angle just right. Creating symmetry on both eyes can be tricky, and sometimes the wing still looks different once the liner is applied. For me, cleaning up with a pointed cotton swab or brush is faster and gives more control.Insider follow-up question: Cynthia, what’s “puppy liner”?!

Gotta love the names. It’s eyeliner that extends out from your natural eye shape, so a more horizontal or downward angle versus a cat eye, which tends to be angled up to lift. Think: puppy is soft and cute, and cat is sharp and fierce.

Any tricks you’re trying? I’d love to hear about them!