It’s always a pleasure to meet makeup genius Donald Simrock. Not only does he instantly put one at ease, he’s also the beauty expert to talk shop with. As Donald touched down in Mumbai for the S/R 2017 edition of Lakmé Fashion Week, we couldn’t have picked a better time to chat with the famed makeup artist about his return to backstage beauty and the top beauty tips to try this summer.

makeup tips for summer

BeBeautiful – How are you feeling as you return to Lakmé Fashion Week?

Donald Simrock – I’m excited – It’s a new season and another round at Lakmé Fashion Week. I’m really looking forward to it!

BB – Since we’re in an excessively humid climate especially during summer, do you have any tips to survive the season?

DS – In summer, prepping the skin is most important because even if you use the most expensive foundation with no preparation, it will have no effect. Using an oil-free moisturiser is key, especially if you have oily skin, as it will treat while moisturising. Dusting a loose powder will also lend a naturally finished face.

BB – What are you most excited about from the Lakmé portfolio this season?

DS – As the new lipstick range revolves around Argan oil, it will have healing properties too! The oil is infused in lipsticks and foundations, to name a few products and it’s a great innovation from Lakmé.

BB – How can we incorporate pastel shades in our makeup for summer?

DS – You can always use pastels on your eyes by applying a baked shadow with a wet brush. This lends a light finish which is easily to blend. You can also wear pastels on your lips this season by applying it with a stain-like sheer finish.

beauty trend at lakme fashion week 2017

BB – What are some of the beauty trends that you foresee making it big this summer?

DS – As we’re finally moving away from the contoured look of the face, it’s exciting to finally see the skin beneath it and go back to the fundamentals of makeup. This season, we’ll be seeing more natural features of the face rather than its enhancement. For lips, we’re expecting more subtle stain-like hints which can be achieved by thinning the pigmented Lakmé lipsticks. Majority of the looks we’ve seen, from Versace to Dior, is more expensive and fresh, which I’m greatly looking forward to.

BB – What are the most important beauty products that every woman must have this season?

DS – For one, a calamine based lotion as a thin layer of it on the face can hold together foundation and prevent it from separating. Pore minimisers are also essential to keeping makeup intact. The Lakmé Complexion Care Face Cream, which we’re using in the shows works excellently to prep skin.

BB – How important is it to have makeup that isn’t just adding cosmetic value but also caring for your skin?

DS – It’s an intelligent approach for makeup to take. When people lead hectic lives, they might not remember to care for their skin but a multi-tasking product does that for them. Just like a smartphone, it’s smart makeup.

BB – What are your thoughts on the rise in popularity of having natural oils in skin care and makeup?

DS – At the end of the day, I think natural ingredients always stand the test of time. Even with change and innovation, there’s absolutely nothing like going natural.