By Melina Byrne
Rescu. delves into this popular make-up craze that has everyone reaching for a Kabuki brush… (and a mirror to admire our flawless skin).
Four reasons why you’ll love mineral make-up
1. It provides unsurpassed skin coverage without looking ‘cakey’ or artificial.
2. It’s natural and free of toxic chemicals that can clog the skin. You can even sleep in it (but, of course, you shouldn’t).
3. Most products include sun protection.
4. Products last longer than old-school make-up as you only use a small amount.
Why I switched to minerals
I became a mineral make-up devotee 18 months ago after my wedding make-up trial. I couldn’t believe the difference that minerals made to my skin. Gone were the scars, redness and bluish shadows under my eyes. And my make-up looked so natural (until the make-up artist went completely overboard with my mascara…).
My make-up artist recommended i.d. Bare Minerals. Their starter kits are great value and invaluable for beginners. In some starter kits, you even receive a ‘How To’ DVD, which teaches you how to apply the minerals.
After watching the Bare Minerals How-To DVD, I believe the key application tips are:
1. Prepare your skin. The i.d. Bare Minerals Vitamins Skin Rev-er primer is a silky smooth serum that glides onto the skin. If I was marooned on a desert island and only allowed to keep 3 items, it would be on the top of my list (followed by sunscreen and Carmex cherry SPF 15 lip balm).
2. You only need to use a small amount. Before applying the minerals, you must tap off the excess off your brush. Trust me, it looks better this way.
3. Use a concealer brush for concentrated coverage. I’d never used a concealer brush until I received one in my Bare Escentuals starter kit, now it is my all-time favourite brush.
4. For best results, swirl your Kabuki brush in a circular motion. This buffs the powder into your skin.
5. Use bronzer for a sun-kissed look. I use Bare Minerals Warmth on the areas where the sun touches (e.g. cheeks, chin and forehead).
6. Apply a setting powder like Bare Minerals Mineral Veil. It is the perfect finishing touch.
The Kabuki brush
If you haven’t heard of a Kabuki brush, let me explain. Popular with professional make-up artists, it’s designed to provide flawless all-over coverage, which even disguises skin conditions like birthmarks, acne and rosacea. There are Kabuki brushes for every budget; Bare Minerals has one made from soft goat hair bristles priced at $55.00, while Australis’ version, with natural fibre bristles, is only $17.95 RRP.
Road test
One of the drawbacks of mineral make-up is that it can be a little messy if you’re not careful. So that’s why I liked the Mineral Fusion Fresh Face Starter Kit (just $65 RRP – with $120 worth of value). The foundation and bronzer work like old-fashioned pressed power compacts, so application is super easy. This kit also comes with a Kabuki Brush, and a Hydration Mist, which is a quick and refreshing way to prime your skin.
Mineral Fusion products are available from selected David Jones stores and www.mineralfusion.com.au.
If you are not a fan of powder, mineral make-up is also available in liquid formulas. Australis is the best brand for the budget-conscious. I used their Mineral Inject Liquid Foundation (only $17.95 RRP). A no-mess pump pack, it contains SPF 12 and UV filters for the ultimate sun care protection. It also contains skin-repairing ingredients, like Vitamin E and Australian native Kakadu plum. Australis calls it the “ultimate personal trainer for your skin”, but since I’m pretty scared of personal trainers, I’d prefer to call it my new best friend. Click here to find out more at the Australis website.
GloMinerals are an industry-leading line of mineral make-up. I was lucky enough to try GloEye Revitalize (RRP $69.00), which gives your eyes a lift when applied to the orbital bone. I loved this product (after Googling where the orbital bone is) as it helped to brighten my tired eyes and hide fine lines. It also contains cucumber and aloe to cool, hydrate and condition the skin. Go to www.glostore.com.au for more information and stockists.
Rescu. also recommends:
For the girl on the go: Elizabeth Arden. The packaging is ingenious; no mess, no fuss, and great, natural coverage. Our crush has not faded on this one.
For the sensitive type: Young Blood. Very fine, great coverage and does not clog pores at all. You will love the shade selection and all day natural coverage.
For the glamour puss: Vani-T Krush Minerals. Sexy packaging, a hint of shimmer, and warming sun-kissed shades that flatter.
