One starlet that stood from the countless celebrities shining in their finest couture during the Oscars on Sunday was Spanish actress Penelope Cruz. From her luscious nude lips to the Donna Karan strapless dress in rich burgundy, we’re still swooning over her entire ensemble. Ladies, this is how you get glam for a red carpet! Of course, not everyone has access to a gown quite like Cruz’s, but her flawless face is a cinch to recreate. Bruce Grayson, head makeup artist for the 2010 Academy Awards, gives us the 411 on how to achieve Hollywood’s hottest looks, including Cruz’s. Soft skin, perfect pouts, and enchanting eyes can be yours in time for the weekend! Here are Grayson’s star-worthy tips for looking red carpet-ready.
Oscars 2010 Tip #1: Prep Your Skin
It’s important to prep your skin a few days before a big event. In addition to drinking lots of water and eating a healthy diet, the key to glowing skin is following a strict skincare regimen. For pre-event prep, try Olay Professional Pro-X Intensive Firming Treatment ($62). This kit combines a hydrating mask and tightening serum. Packed with an effective blend of anti-aging ingredients, it works to firm skin by helping restore its natural fullness, elasticity, and tension. In just five days skin looks significantly younger and smoother.
Oscars 2010 Tip #2: Get Glowing
Fabulous makeup starts with a flawless canvas. To get blemish-free skin, opt for a foundation that delivers the perfect level of pigment, such as the Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation ($59). Using the Giorgio Armani Foundation Brush ($51), apply with short quick strokes and paint your way to complexion perfection.
Oscars 2010 Tip #3: Get Smoky (Eyes That Is!)
Sultry, gorgeous eyes can be achieved with some smoke. First, you want to combat any dark undereye circles with the Olay Regenerist Anti Aging Eye Roller ($22.99). Gently glide the pen under your eyes and voila – puffiness disappears in just 30 seconds and there is an obvious reduction in fine lines and wrinkles. Next, use CoverGirl Smoky Shadow Blast ($7.49). Sweep the rounded end of the shadow all over the lid and use the angled end along the lash line. Crease for bold definition.
Oscars 2010 Tip #4: Perk Up Your Cheeks
Add dimension to the face and cheeks with a soft blush in a pink or peach shade. If you prefer some shimmer, go with Nars Orgasm ($26). If you prefer to skip the glitter, try Cargo Catalina ($26). To apply, simply dust the apples of your cheeks with a big, fluffy brush, blending outward toward the hairline.
Oscars 2010 Tip #5: Create Kissable Lips
For perfect puckers, it’s important to prep lips with a conditioner. Not only will this hydrate them, but it will allow the color to stay longer. Start with Karite Lip Balm ($8.50), an all natural shea butter formula that moisturizes and protects. Next, apply red lipstick, such as YSL Rouge Volupte in Red Temptation ($34) or a coral shade, like MAC Lipstick in Vegas Volt ($14). To define the lips further, use a liner kike Nars Lipliner Pencil in Jungle Red ($20). Set the color in place with a high shine gloss. Either MAC Clear Lip Glass ($14) or Nars Lip Gloss in Triple X ($24) will work wonders.
