Makeup 

Face Powder 

This makeup product may be used alone as a cosmetic in its own right, or used over a foundation. It is used to provide colour, even out skin tone, reduce shine or to set the foundation. It comes in two different forms: 

Loose powder  - which is sold in small containers and applied with a makeup brush or powder puff. It is very light and airy in texture and it provides a more natural sheer look to the makeup without streaking.

It is however difficult to carry around, therefore, if makeup requires touching up throughout the day, a pressed powder compact is more appropriate.

Compact pressed powder – this comes in a small and easily transported compact, with a powder puff and mirror. It has been pressurised to form a hard cake of powder and has added oils to ensure the powder remains in this form for longer. It is an ideal product to use for minimising shiny areas such as the oily ‘T’ zone but because it does contain a small amount of oil it has to be applied more often than loose powder and may sometimes appear streaky.

Mineral makeup – this is a finely milled mineral powder foundation applied with a kabuki brush, it is light in texture but when applied correctly covers like a foundation.  It is suitable for all skin types even sensitive as it is chemical and fragrance free.

Face powder comes in different shades to match skin or foundation colour or a sheer translucent powder that is suitable for all skin colours and tones as it allows the true colour of the foundation to show through.

Bronzing powders are popular in the summer to provide a sun kissed look but it can also be used as a shader, to contour the face.

Application tips 

Choose colour carefully if it is darker than the natural skin colour it may create an orange toned complexion.

It should always be applied after foundation, concealer and cream blusher to help set the makeup and before powder eye shadow.

A large powder brush should be dipped into the loose powder, the excess shaken off and then the brush is swept over the face lightly using downward strokes to finish.

To make sure the powder remains clean and germ free tip a small amount into the lid of the container and use this to dip your brush into.

An alternative method is to use a clean powder puff or cotton ball and apply face powder with slight pressure in a rocking motion all over the skin. Then brush off the excess powder with your brush.

Avoid using powder on a dry flaky skin as it makes the condition worse. If you have wrinkles and are using face powder, stretch the skin slightly to ensure the coverage is complete and not too much powder sits in the creases.

Yellow toned powder used under the eyes can help to reduce dark shadows.

Wash brushes and powder puffs regularly to prevent spots and blemishes from dirt and grease which may be harbouring bacteria.