Even though not every big brand has come to terms with the fact that this bountiful planet we live on is full of people of all complexions, there are a few that have moved with the times. We all know that M.A.C and Bobbi Brown are great go-to brands for foundations from the palest alabaster to the richest chocolate. Joining them in the 21st Century are Nars (the brand I go to for everything from foundation to eyeshadow), Smashbox whose CC cream was my saviour last summer and surprisingly, Laura Mercier. Others such as Estée Lauder, YSL and Lancôme aren’t far behind, with new liquid formulas being introduced thanks to faces such as Jourdan Dunn, Lupita Nyongo and Liya Kebede.
In terms of liquid foundation all of the above brands have something you can work with; but when it comes to powder a lot of them still only offer translucent powders or bronzers, which is very admirable but not exactly helpful and kind of defeating the object of providing liquid formulas for all; Clearly they want us to shop around.
When it comes to powder, I like to go for something light and natural looking that sets my foundation and works as the perfect base for my blusher and contour kit.
Having tried my fair share, these are my current top three:
M.A.C Mineralize Skinfinish is pretty much flawless. It’s a lightweight mineral powder that looks natural and allows skin to breathe. It’s only flaw is that it’s not great for controlling oil throughout the day. Apart from that it’s pretty much perfect and a bargain at £23.
M.A.C, Mineralize Skinfinish natural, £23, M.A.C
At Blush we love a little Laura Mercier. Their primer is a pioneer and it’s gel liners are the best in the business. Considering they have so many hero products and isn’t the biggest of brands, I was surprised to discover that their powders and bronzers cater to all complexions. Their baked powder is a summer staple of mine and the smooth finish pressed powder is fantastic. Slightly more grown up in its matte finish, it’s not the one if you’re after a dewy glow. It’s compact case fit with a mirror and applicator sponge, keeps foundation in check all day. I am a big fan.
Laura Mercier, Smooth finish foundation powder, £33, Space NK
When it comes to foundation, illuminators and matte lipstick no-one comes close to Nars for me. I love their blotting powder which I’ve been carrying around in my handbag for years, so I was very excited at the launch of their luminous powder. The cute cube compact is dainty enough to carry around and the results are as always, first class. This like M.A.C’s gives a really natural soft finish which is great for the day. The only problem is that the little sponge that accompanies it gets very quickly saturated with product and pretty much becomes defunct. This is one for the girls who love to put their powder on with a big brush.
Nars, Luminous powder foundation, £33, John Lewis
Jamila x
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