There are a myriad new make-up colours out for Spring. The trick is in knowing which will work for you.

As a kid, you were probably always reaching for the brightest crayon in the box. But now, faced with a rainbow of hues in the cosmetics aisles, do you panic and default to barely-there beiges and browns? Playing it safe can actually age you, whereas wearing brighter colours makes little imperfections fade into the background. So go ahead and be bold with these tips from pros on how to play up cheeks, lips, eyes and nails.

In the Pink
Pick up vibrant pinks, which mimic your natural flush. Paler versions can wash you out in the summer.
On lips “Choose a sheer gloss for day and a more highly pigmented lipstick to add drama at night,” says Gucci Westman, a make-up artist and global artistic director for Revlon.

On cheeks The key to pulling off bright blush is to blend in a creamy formula until the colour almost disappears. For easy application, smile, then pat in blush from your apples up your cheek-bones using a damp make-up sponge.

On nails Fuchsia on your fingertips has made a comeback but go for opaque rather than shimmer.

Go Green
“Use green to brighten your eyes and skin,” suggests Westman. On eyes A sheer wash of lime shadow from the lash line past the crease will counteract red eyes. For extra oomph, line your lower lids with a shade of denim blue.

On nails Iridescent sea-green polishes reflect light, so hands will appear more evenly toned.

Violet Femme
“Playing with purple helps take the yellow tones out of a sallow complexion,” says Uzo, a top international make-up artist. On eyes Create a vibrant version of the smoky eye by layering several lavender shades. Use a light one on the lid, a medium tone in the crease, and a deep version along lashes.

On nails Deep purple polish may be a salon staple but plum or lilac will give nails a more summery look says LA-based manicurist, Elsbeth.

Royal purple illuminates skin better than deeper, more sombre versions of this regal hue.

Lemon Aid
A pop of yellow “can be eye-catching and a little unexpected,” says New York make-up artist, Darac.
On eyes Blend a taupe shadow from lashes to halfway up the lid, then dust a brighter colour into the crease.

On nails Warning lights: Day-Glo polish must be opaque as a sheer application can make your skin tone look dull.

On lips The sheerest yellow or golden gloss can add volume and a sparkle to your lips.

Perfectly Peachy
Consider this your new best friend – and your friend’s best friend. “It gives all complexions a warm, lit-from-within glow,” says Uzo. On cheeks Dust coral blush on your apples, nose, and hairline for that straight-from-the beach flush.

On lips Slick on an extra-emollient orangey lipstick to hydrate your pout.

On nails A slightly sheer peach polish will even out ridges caused by ageing.