Last year, Rihanna took to the stage in Dubai. Not an unusual occurrence, in and of itself, but this time the singer-turned-fashion-designer-turned-beauty-mogul wasn’t there to perform. Instead, she was there to share all her beauty secrets in a hotly anticipated make-up masterclass.

Dressed in a gold satin trench coat and flanked by Fenty global make-up artists Priscilla Ono and Hector Espinal, during the two-hour class Rihanna demonstrated her top make-up techniques on models including Halima Aden. Tickets to the masterclass, which took place last September, ranged from AED 1,000 to 7,500 (roughly £200 to £1,600), which is pretty steep however, proceeds from the event did go toward the organization Dubai Cares, a charity that works with UN aid agencies and international NGOs in an effort to improve children’s access to education in developing countries. Thankfully, we can now watch the whole thing for free courtesy of the Internet and Fenty's YouTube channel. Here’s what we learnt.

The importance of blending

First thing’s first, and this cannot be stressed enough, getting a flawless base is the number one priority for the Fenty team. There’s no arguing here - skin should remain looking like skin. Or, more specifically, skin should not look like it has a layer of make-up sitting on top of it. So, make sure you’re blending that product in, and, more importantly, working with your skin (tone, texture, and the rest) and not against it.

You are nothing without primer

The Pro Filt’r primer was designed to be used in conjunction with the Pro Filt’r Foundation. So, although each can be used as separate products, they work best when mixed together. When Rihanna is perhaps wanting coverage that is a bit sheerer, she does so by mixing one pump of primer in with the foundation. 

Espresso looks good on everyone

The Match Stix are one of the team’s favourite products – especially the universally-flattering shade Espresso. Match Stix are best compared to that one kid in school who says they haven’t revised for a test but still gets an A. Basically, they are the ultimate overachiever. Although primarily used as a contour stick, they can also be used as eyeshadow, a lip product, and concealer. Hector opted out of using foundation for one model’s complexion and instead used various shades to help shape and define her face.

They also addressed the commonly faulted aspect of the product which is that, at first, it feels drying to the skin. Turns out there is a very quick fix to this – simply warm it up by applying it to the back of your hand (which, in turn, will make it creamier).

It's all about Moroccan Spice

The Moroccan Spiced Eyeshadow Palette was inspired by Rihanna’s experiences there, especially the extremely visceral atmosphere of the markets. So in awe of the culture, she wanted to encapsulate that in the palette – one of the most versatile palettes in terms of colours and variations of looks. So much so that she says no matter where she goes, she will have it with her.

Get ready for Fenty lashes

Be prepared for the future of Fenty. When asked about possible eyelash products Rihanna simply replied “there will be no stone left unturned. You will come to Sephora, stop at Fenty, and leave.” We don’t know about you, but we can’t wait.

Being yourself is the best beauty tip of all

The biggest takeaway message was this: make-up is the ultimate accessory for self-expression. If you have done something that just looks awful, simply wipe it off and try something else. But, nonetheless, make-up should, fundamentally, be playful, fun, inspiring and used as a tool to try things you wouldn’t perhaps normally do.