Director for global artistry and François Nars’ right-hand man, James Boehmer, collaborates with fashion royalty.Backstage with Vivienne Westwood, Marc Jacobs and Phillip Lim, he takes inspiration from the collections and sets colour trends that sweep the globe, and he’s also the makeup go-to guy for stars including Naomi Campbell, Heidi Klum, Daphne Guinness and Sofia Coppola. I caught up with him in Sydney to find out how to brighten a dull complexion with his latest range, Nars Skin – in Mecca Cosmetica stores this week.

Why did Nars branch out into skincare?We’ve had a small skincare range in the US since 2002, but felt it wasn’t giving the makeup enough support. The Nars Skin range isn’t corrective or active – it won’t target skin concerns. But it will make skin look it’s very best, before you apply makeup.

How does it work?

This range contains Polynesian algae and mineral-rich water, vitamin C, essential oils of peony, rose and orange, and a light-reflecting complex of tiny micro-prisms that help skin look its best in any light. The micro-prisms enhance the colour of any blush or bronzer and help foundation appear more luminous.

How can you instantly improve dull-looking skin?

Use a tinted moisturiser with sun protection and colour in one. Remember, foundation is merely one step in perfecting dull skin. I can’t say enough about the importance of loose powder. It not only sets makeup, it makes skin appear smoother and more even.

My pick Nars Skin Luminous Moisture Cream as an under makeup primer it’s genius.