Mineral Make-Up
The low down
You've probably already heard about mineral make-up - this year has been the year for it here in the UK. This is make-up at its purest. It is finely milled or micronised colour pigments and that's it, so it is ideal for sensitive skin. You apply it to the skin in a circular motion, with a brush. It has been popular in the States for years and word has got to the UK. This year, mineral make-up was the UK's big foundation story.
The news
The downside of mineral make-up was that while it was gentle on the skin and provided a good level of sun protection, it was messy to use and made the skin look too ‘done.' The newer mineral foundations are more finely milled, so give a seamless, more natural finish. Laura Mercier, celebrity make-up artist with an A-list client list a mile long (Sarah Jessica-Parker, Scarlett Johannson) has created one of the finest formulas.
What it can do for you
It makes an ideal foundation if your skin reacts easily. It contains no oil, so also works really well on blemished skin - something the make-up artist, Jemma Kidd always tells me. Applied correctly, in circular motions with a special brush, you can build up coverage intensity from sheer and glowy, to a more polished finish. The minerals also provide UV protection - from about SPF15. Those that come in a brush applicator are the least messy to use.
Best buys
Laura Mercier Mineral Powder SPF15, £30
Susan Posnick Colorflo Foundation (refillable), £44.95, 020 8997 8541
Jane Iredale Amazing Base Loose Minerals, SPF20, £28 www.jiproducts.co.uk
