By Sinead M'Gee

Beauty lessons beyond lockdown

With many of us having had a shorter daily commute (my kitchen to at-home office is precisely 10 steps) it’s fair to say we’ve discovered what a little spare time can do to ramping up our beauty routine. Helped along on fast-forward by the fact we’ve had to take matters into our own hands.

Self-care as many of us knew it, was stripped back, and reduced to the bare minimum of our own capabilities. I like to think we rose to the challenge. Salon-worthyesque manicures, doubling down on skincare, and of course, DIY-tinting hair colour regrowth plus brows and lashes.

As we see restrictions relax further and the re-opening of beauty salons today, we’d love to know what beauty lessons learned in lockdown you’ll be taking beyond. Here’s mine.

If you’re familiar with 1000Hour, you will have noticed we were well ahead of the #isobeauty brow tinting trend. But I’m not here to boast. I’m here to talk about beauty lessons I have learnt whilst in lockdown. Though it may include our dye kits.

Does drinking enough water count as a beauty lesson? If yes, then absolutely write this one down. I’m one of those people that only remembers to drink water if my co-worker next to me is sipping from their water bottle. During my first few weeks working from home, I found myself forgetting to keep up my water intake. Beauty begins with hydrated skin.

Birds’ nests are for birds, not babes. This may come as a surprise but brushing your hair is just as important as putting on deodorant, even when you’re at home. With the tendency to just put your hair up in a messy bun every day, there was the odd occasion I would forget to brush my hair. But I vouch to try harder from now on. Speaking of brushing your hair, I picked up the habit of giving my brows a little brush with a Spoolie to help stimulate hair growth because if there is one thing I want coming out of lockdown, and for my future, it’s fuller brows.

And seeing as though we’re talking about brows, if you need something small, yet mighty to enhance your natural look without going ‘too crazy’ (quarantine bangs I’m talking about you), a little tint to your brows and lashes can definitely make you look more awake. Helpful to hide the fact you may have lost track of time last night and binge-watching Netflix to what would, under normal circumstances, have been close to non-lockdown alarm wake-up time.

Treat your feet like your face. I’m talking about treating feet to a foot peel! Seeing as though wearing shoes has been kind of not that important whilst WFH, it was the perfect opportunity to slip my feet into the Bathefex’s Softsole Exfoliating Foot Peel booties and get me some soft, refreshed, silky smooth feet. But be warned, if you’re into those extracting videos you see on your Instagram feed, you will become obsessed with this horrifyingly satisfying treatment.

On the topic of exfoliating and smooth skin, with that extra commute time, dry brushing before a shower is a must. Dry brushing stimulates blood flow, helps with the appearance of

cellulite, evens out your fake tan results. Trust me, this polishing ritual is ah-mazing. And just between us, it’s so quick that as long as I only hit snooze five times, instead of 20, I can even keep it up when I have to venture beyond the house for work in future.

With these basics now well and truly in my DIY skillset, will I be heading back to my local beauty clinic any time soon? Hell yes. With money saved on essentials making my bank account look way too healthy, I’m ready to up the beauty anti and take salon-care to a whole new level. A girl’s gotta support her local after all.

By Sinead M'Gee

Here at 1000Hour HQ we love anything that means treating yourself, especially if it means putting your feet up and relaxing. In celebration of Bathefex’s Softsole revamp, we’re going to be dwelling on their amazing Nourishing Leg Mask.

We’ll let you in on a little insider knowledge, this product is being hailed as the secret to smoother, firmer legs. Enriched with Shea Butter and Coconut Oil, the Nourishing Leg Mask is the product you didn’t know you needed. Until now.

You know those cute sheet face masks you see all over the gram? Think of that but for your legs? Hence the lazy girls guide to silky smooth legs.

The leg mask invites you to sit back and relax as your legs and feet are intensely hydrated and moisturised in one simple step. Apply the mask to clean legs and feet and leave for 15-20 minutes. Letting the mask do its magic - aka refreshing your skin so you can show off your pins with no worries.

What makes this mask even more impressive? The product is drenched in amazzzzing superstar ingredients which can be massaged into your skin after the leg mask, transforming your skin and leaving behind a luminous glow. No need for lotion or moisturiser after use, simplifying your routine just that little bit more.

A word of advice? If you weren’t thinking of it already, use a dry brush prior to the mask for even smoother results. We love the EcoTools Dry Brush as it helps firm and exfoliate the skin, promising polished supermodel looks. Who would say no to that?

Grab your leg mask now in the Bathefex Collection on our site.

Bathefex Softsole Leg Mask

Bathefex Exfloiating Foot Peel

EcoTools Dry Brush

By Sinead M'Gee

At 1000Hour we love lashes that command attention. We believe that a cute pair of lashes can help show off your personality that extra little bit and with that in mind, we have put together a crafty little piece to help you choose the right lashes for you. As well as the dos and don’ts to wearing a pair of falsies.

Now we understand that despite the name, fake lashes don’t need to look fake. We want you to wear the lashes, not the lashes to wear you. Chances are if you’re after a set of lashes, you want some extra volume and length. At 1000Hour we have a range of natural looking lashes to add a little jazz to your look or dramatic lashes for that extra oomph. 

For natural looking lashes we suggest our Boho, My Selfie or Envious lashes which compliment your natural lash line. We also recommend our individual lashes as another alternative, in short to long styles.

Boho     My Selfie    Envious

For a bit of fun, look no further than our Kitten, Vogue or Showgirl lashes. These lashes are full and fabulous.

Kitten   Vogue   Showgirl 

Now, once you have chosen your dream lashes, here are a few simple tips to make the application process a walk in the park.

Mascara first, lashes last.
Apply your mascara before your lashes, why you ask? Once you have applied your mascara it is easier for you to determine where some extra volume may be needed. Plus, the oil in the mascara may break down the bond of the lash band. So, in turn applying before will prolong the wearability of your lashes. Who doesn’t want that?

P.S Remember to allow time for your mascara to dry before applying the lashes.

Measure & Trim
Strip lashes sometimes need trimming to suit the shape of your eye. Start by holding the lash against your eyelid and measure them against the natural length of your lash line. Trim the lash with scissors from the outer corner so the style of the lash is maintained.

Get Tacky
Wait for the adhesive glue to become tacky before you apply the lashes. This will make the application process easier as the lashes will stay in place. 

Clean & Re-Use
Your lashes are not a one hit wonder! Our lashes are made to be worn than once. Follow our step by step guide here. 

By Sinead M'Gee

Here at the 1000Hour HQ office, we like to have a little sticky beak into what products live in our staff’s makeup kits. This month, we’re peeking into the newbie in the office, Content Specialist, Sinead.

"I consider myself a bit of a skincare advocate, so most of the products in my makeup bag consist of serums, creams and more serums. I’m all about that dewy glowy look ya’feel? So, here are my essentials to achieving that luminous glow".

Go-To Face Hero – My absolute favourite of all the oils and serums I own and I’m sucker for anything peach coloured.

Tatcha Water Cream – I’m obsessed with this incredible Japanese skincare brand. This cream almost feels like I’m wearing nothing at all but with all the benefits.

The Ordinary Foundation Serum – This foundation has been a personal favourite for a while now. It’s light weight, dewy and gives me that perfect glow.

Eye of Horus Goddess Mascara – I have recently converted to this incredible mascara and I won’t be turning back. It’s perfectly pigmentated, doesn’t smuge and gives my lashes that added volume. Oh, it’s vegan and cruelty free! Yay for clean beauty.

1000Hour Clear Brow Gel – As someone who was #blessed with big bushy brows, this product is a godsend to tame my brows on a regular basis.

Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge – These sponges have become a bit of a permanent resident in my makeup bag over the years. Tip – they really should only take residence for a month or so before changing to a new one. Hygiene 101!

Ultraviolet Queen Screen– A little SPF goes a long way. If I’m leaving the house, Ultraviolet will no doubt be on my face.

1000Hour Individual Lashes in Short to Medium – I’ll be the first to admit I’m not the best person at applying falsies. But, whenever I’m heading out for a special night out with the girls, these guys are a must to complete my look.

Morphe 9D Painted Desert Artistry Palette – This is my dream palette; I love all the warm tones. I’m especially loving burnt orange at the moment, it’s my go-to if I’m looking to spice things up a little.

By Sinead M'Gee

What does the saved photos feed look like on your Instagram? Our account is filled with makeup trends we are dying to recreate. From glossy eyes, to pops of colour with paint and of course Euphoria looks which have no doubt changed the makeup game. Our saved selection is what we think goes on inside a makeup artists’ mind.

It’s become very clear that this year in the makeup world, artists have been pulling influences from art, history and just everyday items to create fun, colourful and surprising looks.

It’s no lie that here at 1000Hour, we believe the eyes are the centrepiece of the face and love to see all forms of creativity be paired with makeup. So, we have put together some of our favourite looks, spotted throughout 2019, and how to pair them with 1000Hour products.

Painted
Whether it be bright pops of yellow, pastel greens or pinks, this look is not going anywhere soon. What we love most about this trend is there are no set rules. Imperfect is the new perfect.

Pair with Envious Lashes

Glossy Lids & Feathered Brows
Shine in all the right places with this beauty trend. Lavender cream eyeshadow is the colour of the year for gorgeous glossy lids and we’re all for it. Be sure to use waterproof mascara to prevent smudging and avoid applying gloss in the crease of the lid to prevent creasing.

Pair with Clear brow gel for feathered brows

Graphic Neon Eyeliner & Cut Crease
We have seen this trend all over the gram! Rihanna included this look in her Fenty Show and we have been obsessed ever since. It’s all about the art of the eyelids, so go with minimal lashes for this look. Use our 1000Hour Brow Gel to keep your brows in check.
Pair with Individual Lashes Short to Medium

Mermaid Tears Eyes
This trend sounds like something out of a Disney film and yes, the diffused eye shadow trend is as dreamy as you would imagine. Think teal blue and fuchsia pink placed precisely on the teardrops of the eyelids. This trend has come straight out of NYFW.
Pair with Boho Lashes

Monotone Lids
We’re talking burnt orange, bright reds and peachy hues. Be bold with this look. Go full disco diva, we dare you.
Pair with Demure Lashes

Bejewelled Festive Eyes
Using our lash glue, get creative with jewels, sequins, glitter or even mini temporary tattoos to create a Euphoria inspired look. Trust me this look won’t go unnoticed.

Pair with Individual Lashes Medium to Long

Metallics
It’s golden hour all year long. We have been seeing a lot of metallics, lots of gold, lots of silver and we’re loving it.
Pair with Vogue Lashes

By Sinead M'Gee

Just like your makeup brushes, your false lashes too need cleaning after use. Here at 1000Hour we believe your lashes deserve more than one wear, so we have put together a simple system to extend the longevity of your false lashes.

To get started, you will need a few items to get your lashes looking brand new.

• Cotton Pads
• Tweezers
• Oil-free makeup remover
• Original lash case

Step 1. To begin, make sure your hands are clean. If you’re cleaning your lashes you don’t want to transfer any germs from your hands to the lashes.

Step 2. Using the tweezers, gently pinch the glue residue left on the lashes. Paying special attention to not pull the lash strip.

Step 3. Using an oil-free makeup remover such as micellar water, dampen the cotton pad and gently remove any leftover mascara or eye makeup on the lashes. By using an oil-free makeup remover, this means the lashes will not have an oil film left on them after cleaning, which would disrupt the tackiness of the glue at the next application.

It is important to swipe in the same direction as the lashes lay to prevent the lashes from losing their shape.

Step 4. Sanitise your lashes with a spritz of rubbing alcohol. This step prevents the risk of bacteria coming in contact with the eye area.

Step 5. Leave your lashes to air dry in the original packaging case they came in. This will also help the lashes hold their shape for your next wear.

Step 6. Your lashes are now ready to wear for your next outing. Tag us in your #enhancedbeauty 1000Hour looks on Instagram for your chance to win a 1000Hour beauty pack.

We’re not sure about you, but we love nothing better than being able to grab a sneak peek inside the make-up bag of our favourite celebs!

At a photo shoot last week we were able to do just this with our 1000 HOUR brand Ambassador Tegan Martin. Here are her to-the-minute fab five that go everywhere…

1000 Hour individual lashes
I stack on these individuals when I am creating my favourite night eye. They look so soft and natural, and I always receive compliments when I wear them.

OPI nail lacquer
This Gouda Gouda Two Shoes nail polish from OPI is my favourite at the moment. I can't wear bright colours as a model but this deep neutral shade gives my nails enough spice to keep me happy.

Revo Lip Balm
Everyone who knows me knows I am obsessed with all things watermelon. I keep my lips moist with this little egg of goodness which also smells great too.

Benefit high beam illuminator
This illuminator keeps me glowing from am to pm. I apply on the top of my cheeks and on my cupids bow. I have very dry skin so illuminator is a key product when I do my makeup.

Model Co Lash + Line
An incredible mascara and liner in one! I apply a slash of mascara on top of my 1000 Hour lashes for the perfect pop!

Every girl wishes for gorgeous voluminous lashes that are effortless and chic, so have no fear, your fairy godmother of eyelashes is here. This lifesaving 2-in-1 hack will have you batting those luscious lashes like there is no tomorrow! The ease of this technique will blow your mind!

How you ask? Well, 1000 Hour Xpress Lash-Gro Liner is your answer. This liner uses the innovative combination of long-lasting liquid eyeliner, fused with an eyelash enhancing serum. Along with added definition to your eyes, your lashes will appear longer and fuller.

Whether you are a long-time lover of liquid liner or you are new to the game, you are sure to be impressed. 1000 Hour Xpress Lash-Gro Liner is a water-resistant and smudge-free formula that glides on smoothly in one stroke, effortlessly coating the base of the lashes. In addition to this greatness, this liner contains the clinically proven active ingredient of Capixyl to plump your lashes in just 4 – 8 weeks!

Here are some tips for achieving the best results: 

• Be sure to choose a colour of liner that best suits the look you are going for and blends with the rest of your makeup. 
• Always begin with a thin line and add thickness as you wish. It is much easier to start small and build up.
• You can always use a Q-tip to remove any mistakes, or to smooth out the line.
• Be sure to apply the liner as close to the lash line as possible so there is no gap!
• When creating a winged look, ensure that the extension of the line curves up a tiny bit.

This innovative beauty tool is the perfect product to add to your makeup routine for thicker, fuller and longer-looking lashes in only a matter weeks. Trust us, it will be worth the wait! It’s super quick and easy for those who are always on the go, and even better, it is compact to throw in a handbag or purse.

The genius 2-in-1 hack allows you to get the perfect liquid line along with the ultimate luscious lashes you’ve always dreamt of – so what are you waiting for? 

Try it out for yourself! Your wishes have been granted – fab looking lashes are coming to you in no time!

Our Marketing Manager is the first to admit that even as a beauty advocate, her signature style is all about easy; after all between that New Year’s fitness resolution (yep, still going), getting kids ready for the day, and getting to work; if it’s not easy it doesn’t happen…

We took a sneak peek at what easy looks like, and asked her to ‘tell all’.

For me the best base is great skin – so I do the right thing morning and night, plus always wear sunscreen! This means when it comes to my everyday makeup base, I only need to enhance and even my skin a little, as opposed to doing a full cover-up.

My base is an extension of my skincare routine as I use (and love) Dermalogica Skin Perfecting Primer. I buff it on with a soft brush and it evens skin beautifully. Then I just finish my based with a dust of powder to remove any shine. I do this with my all-time-favourite Ecotools Kabuki brush.

At the moment I’m really enjoying a flushed cheek – it looks really natural but still adds colour to my face. I can’t go past rose-tinted Bene Tint. If I feel my face still needs a little more colour, I’ll use a light dusting of bronzer across cheeks, forehead and anywhere else I think needs it. Sometimes I do this just to use my Kabuki brush again ;)

My little time indulgence is using my 1000 Hour heated eyelash curler before applying mascara. It makes my lashes look amazing. I never leave home without mascara – I’m not brand loyal and love trying different brands, brushes, innovations – and I’ll admit to sometimes having more than one on the go. Curled lashes + Covergirl Lash Blast Volume is a great combo currently.

I like nude lips, so more often than not I’ll just pop on some Revo for moisture, but if I want to feel a little more made-up, Bobbi Brown has a great range of different nudes. I also happen to love the red for those odd ‘glam lip’ nights.

You’ll always find whatever nail polish colour I’m wearing stashed in my makeup bag for quick touch-ups. If you can’t find the time to maintain polish, go natural with a manicures and glossy clear top coat.

I always carry perfume – a quick spritz always brightens my afternoon. I won’t say Elie Saab is a signature scent, but it has been my one love for a while now.

What else? Deodorant, tick. 1000 Hour Hair Colour Mascara – especially if I’ve had to move my hair appointment (oh, I also use if for my brows if the need a little boost).

My favourite hair look is the loose, messy bun. But just in case my hair band breaks, I always carry something that will make my ‘out hair’ look like I’ve done something with it.