ABOUT FACE:GET IT right and a good foundation will enhance your natural beauty. Get it wrong and no other product you apply will compensate, writes Phyl Clarke
The search for the ideal foundation keeps the men in white coats very busy in laboratories around the globe, and all for customers who are demanding more and more from their make-up base. You have a choice of formulas, textures - some with skincare built in - to give you that perfect base, so if you've been wearing the same foundation for yonks, you'll be pleasantly surprised at the "real you, but better" effects of these new super-charged bases.
Choosing a foundation needs concentration and advice. Tap into the knowledge of the counter consultants, they know their brand and will steer you in the right direction. Tell them what you want out of your base and if you have a preferred formula - liquid, powder, stick or compact. Don't test on the back of your hand for colour matching - are you going to wear it on your hands? The best place to check colour is on your lower cheek, next to your jawline. The correct colour should sink into your skin and not be discernible from your neck. The lighting in department stores is not suitable for checking foundation colours, so either go out to the door where you can check the colour in daylight, or request a sample to bring home. That way, you can see the new colour in your own mirror, where you are used to judging your appearance.
Cliniqueknows a thing or two about foundations and their latest, Almost Powder Make-up (€28), starts life as a liquid which evaporates into a powder, creating tiny air pockets in the process. The result is incredibly natural on the skin, and not a bit powdery. Great for touch-ups on the go, too. It comes in the now-iconic green marble compact.
Women are looking for more treatment options from their foundations and Elizabeth Arden'sIntervene range of skincare is now complemented by a make-up base (€36). Smoothing fine lines and giving skin a firmer look, this is a medium- to full-coverage base. Another popular treatment foundation is Capture Totale from Christian Dior(€75). Said to have been formulated for the close-up scrutiny of high-definition TV, this is a luxurious skin treat, which promises glowing radiance.
If you suffer from oily or combination skin, finding a base can be more difficult. YSL'sMatt Touch Foundation (€40) creates an elastic "second skin" which is comfortable to wear and combats shine. It offers long-lasting coverage, without looking heavy.
Estée Lauder'sbestseller, Double Wear (€34), now comes in a lighter formula. Silky on the skin, it gives a lovely smooth finish, but you do need to blend quickly, as it sets fast for an all-day finish.
Max Factor'sMiracle Touch (€18.46), which comes in compact form and transforms to liquid on contact with skin, is a great product at a great price. Used backstage at Milan fashion week by top make-up artist Pat McGrath, she says it gives a flattering finish with speed and simplicity.
Light reflection is key with Lancôme'sPhotogenic Lumessence (€35.50), which promises to deliver moisture and comfort and keep skin moisturised for up to 14 hours.
Beauty spot
Concealer is the key to perfectly even skin and prevents you from being too heavy-handed with your foundation. New on the shelves is Benefit's Erase Paste (€25), which camouflages and brightens in one go. It's a winner.