Beauty Spot: Carly Flynn

Carly Flynn is a familar face to Gossies across the country from her nights reading the news on TV3’s Nightline and mornings hosting TV3’s Sunshine. Her years in the makeup chair before going in front of the camera has given Carly some great tips to share with us- even if her gorgeous seven month old baby Tilly has shorten her makeup routine somewhat! 

In this week’s Beauty Spot enjoy getting a glimpse behind the makeup of Carly Flynn. 

What’s your earliest makeup memory?

Getting into my Nan’s red lipstick!

Do you have a signature scent? What is it?

Yes absolutely – I love Flower Bomb by Viktor Rolf

Describe your everyday makeup look and what products you use:

These days it has to be quick and effective! Quite natural and fresh, a quick dust with i.d. bareMineral powder, Smashbox mascara and blush, and for lips, generally MAC gloss Viva Glam 5 or Lucas Papaw Ointment.

How do you change this for night?

I like to darken up my eyes and eyebrows, add eyeliner, more mascara and blush, and some perfume!

Do you prefer eyes or lips?

Eyes. I have picked up a few tricks of the trade from makeup artists but I’m still no expert! On the rare occasion I decide to go lips instead, I go for red and never regret it!

What was the last beauty product you bought?

Fudge dry shampoo

What’s the biggest hair/makeup disaster you’ve had?

Spikes at age 11! Why did I want to look like a boy? Because I did! I also remember when I was about 19 I was going for a TV audition and someone kindly suggested I might like to get my eye brows professionally shaped. I don’t think it’s something I’d ever considered!

What are some tips and tricks you have learnt from getting you hair and makeup done for television?

I’ve definitely learnt more about defining the eye area – blending different colours, and also now know not to touch my eyebrows.

Has being in the makeup chair changed how you do your makeup? If so how?

It’s been a great lesson! I’ve sat in the chair five days a week for more than six years with some of the best teachers you could ask for! Some makeup artists are just so talented and manage to make me feel a million dollars despite arriving feeling anything but! I’ve tried to watch them and copy them, but I definitely don’t have the patience, skill or eye for it!

How long does it take to get your makeup and hair ready for the TV?

Generally around an hour including having a lovely hair wash and blow dry and then there’s touch ups throughout the shoot.

What’s your best beauty discovery and why?

Olay Total Effects SPF 15 – it’s celebrating its 10th Anniversary and is a good supermarket trolley staple – it fights the seven signs of ageing and protects you from the sun.

What are your thoughts on cosmetic surgery – would you? Have you?

I guess never say never, but no, I haven’t at this stage. Although if they could find a non-invasive non-toxic way to improve my smile lines around my eyes I’d be thrilled!

How long does it take you to get ready?

I’ve got it down pretty quick these days and the result can sometimes be a bit hit and miss! I can’t afford to care as much as I used to, which has in turn made me more comfortable in my own skin. It’s also been a real shift for me going from having professional hair and makeup done every day to it now being a special treat. I actually prefer wearing less now and finding my own more natural look.

How would you change this if you had more time?

I’d have a professional blow wave once a week to keep me going, and have a manicure and pedicure. Sometimes it’s the little things that make you feel prepared for the world! I hate having chipped toe nails especially during summer! 

How has having a baby changed your routine?

I’ve had to become super quick! My hair gets tied in a quick ponytail so Tilly can’t grab it, ditto for earrings… but I do like to make an effort and have some time out for myself. So it’s nice to get a bit glammed up and go out with the girls or my husband, Dave.