Backstage Beauty Secrets from The Glam Squads of NYFW

One of my favorite parts of covering backstage New York Fashion Week is picking the brains of some of the most talented hairstylists, makeup artists and manicurists in the world. The glam squads behind the Fall 2011 fashion shows of Carolina Herrera, Betsey Johnson, Carlos Miele, Rag & Bone, Monique Lhuillier and other designers filled me in on some of their latest backstage beauty secrets that I’m definitely going to try. The eyebrow tip is already in full effect!

Check them out:

• Use eye drops prior to doing your make up to help clear your eyes and make them appear well rested. • Instead of rubbing your facial moisturizer on, press it into your skin adding a bit of pressure like a gentle massage. This will increase the blood flow in your face and help plump out fine lines. • Brush your brows upward in a 45-degree angle towards the temple for an added eyelift. • After applying lipstick, blot it with a tissue to suck out moisture and shine to create a lip stain finish. • When doing a DIY mani, make sure to cap the edges of your nails with polish for longer lasting results. When polish dries it shrinks and if the edges aren’t capped, it’s more likely to chip. • When applying eye shadow, make sure you use the right brush. The bigger your eyelids, the bigger the brush. • Preparation is key to creating a chic ponytail. Make sure you blow-dry the roots in the direction that you ultimately want your ponytail to sit.

What are some of your favorite beauty tips?