From primer to powder, here are 8 steps to mastering winter make-up

To a trained beauty editor’s eye, it’s easy to spot Hannah Martin’s flattering make-up a mile off. With a focus on a glowy base and subtle pops of colour, it’s no wonder she is a favourite for celebrities and Royals (she is top choice for brides, too).

On Saturday, I hosted a make-up masterclass with Hannah for the Stella X Smart Works Sale in Somerset House, where Hannah explained to our audience some of her best-kept secrets and favourite beauty products.

Here is her step-by-step guide to everyday make-up - and how to make it last past a few hours.

Clockwise from left: Clarins Double Serum, £78; Vitamin Enrich Face Base by Bobbi Brown, £46.50; It Cosmetics CC Base, £26;  Terry Hylauronic Setting Powder, £33.60

Skincare prep is key

Skincare is so key to a good make-up look. If your foundation isn’t performing or your looks dehydrated, it is often down to your skincare prep. I really like Clarins Double Serum, £78, which gives the skin a healthy mix of water and oil. I also like the Double Serum Eye by Clarins, too (£56). The key in the morning is to just use an eye cream under the eyes, and not on the lids, as otherwise your eyeshadow is likely to crease.

The perfect primer

One of my favourite primers for all skin types is the Vitamin Enrich Face Base by Bobbi Brown, £46.50. This is a beautiful moisturiser that has a velvety feel, and it makes your make-up sit on the skin beautifully. Many primers on the market contain too much silicone, which I feel doesn’t look as nice on the skin - it sits as a film on the face rather than working in harmony with your skincare.

Finding a foundation

I always get asked how to cancel redness and give the skin a bit of coverage without it looking cakey, and the It Cosmetics CC Base, £26, is one of my favourites. I just use my fingers to apply it as the warmth of your fingers helps your product to melt into the skin. When it comes to finding your perfect shade, always test it on the centre of your cheek. You can’t test on your wrist or your neck, you just won’t get the perfect colour.

Correct and conceal

If there are any areas of high colour still present after applying foundation, this is when you can use concealer. Don’t get fixated on concealer gathering under the eyes; it’s all about the technique. Dab the concealer and then tap it under your eyes with your ring finger. By using the flat pad of your finger, you will get the most natural finish. I love the Shiseido Synchro Skin Concealer, £30, which is particularly hydrating. Go for a shade that is a touch lighter than your foundation.

To powder or not?

Powder will definitely keep your make-up in place all day - you need something to dry the wet products on your face. The By Terry Hylauronic Setting Powder, £33.60, is really finely milled. By tapping the powder on your face with a small flurry brush, it takes away the shine without your skin looking flat.

Clockwise from left: Bobbi Brown Bronzer in Medium, £33; Charlotte Tilbury Legendary Brows, £19; Bobbi Brown Pot Rouge in Powder Pink,  £23.50

The need for bronzer

I use bronzer in the classic way, to add warmth to the skin and add back in dimension. If you’ve got a deep forehead, you can shade it by brushing a bit of bronzer through the top section and into your hairline, as it gives the illusion of a smaller forehead. You can also put bronzer on the sides of your face to create cheekbones. I love the Bobbi Brown Bronzer in Medium, £33. You can take your bronzer through the crease of your eye for a really easy and quick eyeshadow, too.

Mascara and brows

A quick curl of the lashes adds such impact - any of the Tweezerman curlers are my favourite. Pick your favourite mascara and layer on top. For your bottom lashes, hold the brush, which is the easiest way to coat them. For brows, I like to use the Charlotte Tilbury Legendary Brows, £19, which has a tiny brush that easily coats the brows. When it comes to choosing your brow shade, try to find a colour that is in-between your natural brow hair colour and your hair colour.

Lips and Cheeks

Bobbi Brown Pot Rouge in Powder Pink, £23.50, is a great multitasker. You can dab it onto the apples of your cheeks by using the flat pad of your finger. Pat it on and then apply the same colour on your lips. You can’t go wrong with monochromatic make-up. It’s quick, easy and functional.

Make-up shopping for the festive season? Don't forget to read our guide to the best beauty advent calendars.