Tune out now if a) you were looking for something meaningful to read (this promises to be on the very shallow side of things) or b) you’re a dude. Unless, of course, you’re Eddie Izzard or something because dudes who wear make up could actually be quite useful in this instance.
Ladies (and Eddie), I need new make up. I’m mostly a tinted moisturizer kind of girl, but sometimes I want to get all gussied up, go all out and that’s where the trial and error comes in. The results haven’t been pretty. I started by googling this and then realized that you all are MUCH better at this sort of thing than the Interwebs at large. Also, I can generally trust that you’re not some cosmetics company’s hired gun out there makin’ up fake reviews. So. Tell me about a foundation that you just love, love, love. Nothing heavy; I can’t deal. Oh, and it has to photograph well (see, there is this wedding thing coming up and I don’t want to look like a ghost in those pictures). I don’t mind spending a little bit for a really nice product because, like I said, I definitely don’t go full face make up all that often.
Help a girl out?
Once upon a time, my friend Tanya introduced me to Spanx. If this turns out anything like that did, well, if it were possible to make out with someone over the Internet, I’d be tempted.
Bare Minerals – hands down. I started using it a few years ago and continue to get compliments on my fabulous complexion. If you use their Kabuki brush — you can put the “foundation” layer on lighter or heavier as you need to. The “warmth” (blush-like stuff) is the most natural looking ever. And there is this translucent powder that goes over the top that gives it the great photo finish. I sound like a sales rep, right? So sad — I’m actually an engineer. But I like it that much!
Laura Mercier tinted moisturizer:
http://www.sephora.com/browse/product.jhtml;jsessionid=YGJGYBUSQRVLMCV0KRRQIGQ?id=P109936&categoryId=C12210
They also have a flawless face kit that has small versions of the whole line. Everyone I know raves about this brand and it looks beautiful in photos.
I need more coverage and use Mac. I have that hard to match pale pale skin with yellow undertones instead of pink and they actually make a match. It also looks great in pictures- it’s night and day between when I’m wearing it and when I’m not.
Bobbi Brown’s Skin Foundation SPF 15. Love, Love, LOVE it. Their website copy is entirely true and says it best: “A truly modern foundation that offers invisible, weightless coverage that looks like skin, not makeup. This long-wearing formula evens tone, minimizes the appearance of pores, conceals imperfections, and offers broad spectrum UV protection. Its hydrating technology leaves skin feeling cushioned, comfortable, and clean. Ideal for all skin types.”
It feels like moisturizer, not makeup. And although it is really light, it covers incredibly well. I generally like Bobbi Brown products all-around. Find a counter with an artist’s makeup done the way you like, and ask her for help.
Agree with Amber on a mineral foundation. I’ve been using Youngblood Mineral Foundation for years… You can buy samplers with 5 different colors online for cheap, and when you buy a full container – you get more oz for much less than Bare Minerals or some of those other brands. And wow, we’ve reached the full extent of things I know about makeup now.
Not being one to wear foundation usually, I’m in no position to give advice about one. But I do regularly visit MakeupAlley.com for reviews on EVERY cosmetic you can think of. I read reviews, then if it sounds good, I try to get a sample from the counter. That’s how I found the foundation I wore for my wedding.
Haha – I was just going to say what Amber said. Bare Minerals is the absolute best! Plus, since it’s a powder base and not a liquid base, it feels so light and looks so natural and makes your face look oh-so good.
Okay, I only know this because I was meeting my mom for shopping at NorthPark and I was early and not looking so cute and the Dior lady saw me and offered me a a makeover.
She used the DiorSkin Airflash Spray Foundation. It seemed a little weird at first because it’s spray on make-up, but she told me when I put it on myself to just spray it directly on the brush and then apply it to my face. It gives me great coverage without making me look like I just left from my Glamour Shots portrait. I don’t wear it that often, because I’m lazy and I like to save it for special occasions (like when I’m being photographed). You can get it at Neiman’s or Sephora. Or probably wherever else they sell Dior, but I don’t have a list memorized
Honestly, what I would do is shop around and actually have them apply whichever choices you’re considering and wear it around for a few hours. You want to make sure it’s not going to drip off your face by the end of the night especially if there are going to be hot lights and dancing!
I would suggest Smashbox – they have some great stuff! And Sephora usually has these starter kits with foundation, blush, mascara etc at a good price point. Oh and MAC eyeliner is horrible in humidity.Raccoon eyes about five minutes afer it goes on.
I second Amber’s suggestion. I used to be a ‘powder, mascara and go’ girl. The idea of multiple steps really didn’t appeal to me…until I tried it.
I have been in love ever since. It’s the most natural, lustrous coverage I have ever achieved. It doesn’t cake and even in humidity and heat, the coverage doesn’t run or streak. I am addicted to the stuff. Sometimes, when I am feeling exceptionally lazy – I will just use the mineral veil and be done with it!
A close second in my book is NARS Sheer Glow Foundation. One of my dearest friends is a makeup artist and spent a bit of time working the NARS counter at Neimans. She introduced me to it – and I love it, too.
However, Bare Minerals is still #1 for me.
Dermalogica tinted moisturizer. I love it.
Bare Minerals, indeed! The foundation is great, plus on casual days I use the Mineral Veil alone.
P.S. Antonia told me about this site recently and I love it: http://www.makeupalley.com/
I concur. I use cheaper mineral stuff now, but Bare Minerals was the lightest, most beautiful stuff I’ve ever worn
I use EverdayMinerals. You have to buy it online, it is very similar to Bare Minerals, but cheaper. It works great for sensitive skin. When you buy something, you also can get several free samples. If you are starting out, I’d suggest that you get the try me “base samples” as it will give you a good starting point.
the Philosophy super airbrushed one. It’s in a powder form that comes out of the sponge. It’s very natural and the only foundation I’ve ever used that people complimented my skin. I also highly recommend Make Up For Ever HD powder to set it all. It will help with any shine and it’s amazingly soft. It looks white but it doesn’t change the color of your face or foundation, it goes to clear once blended.
I’m devoted to Bare Minerals, too. I’ve tried some of the other mineral foundations but I always go back to the real deal. I use the Baby Buki brush–helps cover my too-pink cheeks faster. I hardly ever use the Warmth because I’m very fair skinned and even the tiniest amount is too brown for me. Instead I use their blush called Flowers. And the Mineral Veil over the top makes you look like you’ve been airbrushed. Any flaws just magic themselves away. I get compliments on my skin–not my makeup, my skin!–all the time.
Bare Minerals is completely awesome, as Amber said above. But sometimes I just feel like a foundation should be liquid (very old fashioned of me, I know). So I tend to go for Almay SmartShade because it has spf 15 and works for more than one season for me (my skin color changes quite drastically depending on the season) and I like that it matches my skin tone every time. good luck!
I’m with Amber on the Bare Minerals. Go to the Bare Minerals store at Northpark. They have a great selection and very knowledgeable sales people. And you can “try before you buy”. It’s really the only makeup that doesn’t make me break out.
I have also heard good things about bare minerals… but personally, I am a MAC girl.
I use their “mineralize skin finish” which is basically a powder foundation, and is very light (I don’t go in for the pancake look), but I also used their “studio-fix” for years, which is very similar. I just think they are really good at matching skin tones- I never look like I’m wearing makeup, but my skin looks better:)
Most days I’m just a powder and maybelline great lash wearer, but I’m also into mac’s eye makeup when I want to dress up- great colors, and they stay put for a long time. also their lipstick is great.
AND they have a recycling program, where if you bring in a certain number of boxes, you get a FREE lipstick, which is cool. Sorry, it IS sort of hard not to sound like a salesman talking about this stuff…
Anyway, hope that helps:)
I like the Almay Smart Shade foundation – it comes in a flat plastic tube, which is easier to carry around (for workouts) and can go in my carry-on if I fly, plus it adjusts to my skin tone. It’s one of those that self-adjusts to more closely match your own skin color. ‘Course, I get that in a drug store, so the opportunity to try it out and see which one is best on my skin is limited – but that’s the one I carry around.
When I don’t have that (or when I have more money than brains!), I like Clinique’s workout makeup, although with that, you have to be more precise in picking the shade. However, the Clinique counter at almost any department store is so much FUN! It’s my favorite “girly” indulgence!!
Smashbox High Definition Healthy FX Foundation SPF 15. I discovered it about a year ago when I needed something a little more than tinted moisturizer but couldn’t jump to heavy foundation. It’s light, oil-free, and carries sun protection. When I first bought it, I also received a trial size of their “Photo Finish Primer” and didn’t even try it at first – wish I had immediately! First, the Primer creates an even application of the foundation, even for the make up challenged like myself. Second, it comes in 4 different versions, a clear basic primer, and 3 color correcting versions, one to reduce redness and blotchy skintone, one to counteract dark spots (my Mediterranean background has blessed me with those over the years!), and one to brighten skin. Finally, the BEST part about the primer – using it reduces the amount of foundation you need, basically cuts it in half, which saves a bunch of money. Both are more expensive than I would have ever spent before, but because I don’t get ‘gussied up’ that often (and from 3 years of reading, it seems like you are kind of the same), 1 bottle of each lasts me almost a full year. Plus, it’s called Photo Finish for a reason, it’s great for picture taking!!
Links to both:
http://www.sephora.com/browse/product.jhtml?id=P78811&categoryId=RVP
http://www.sephora.com/browse/product.jhtml?id=P179930&categoryId=RVP
Bare Minerals! I’ve been using it for about 10 years and have turned everyone except my mother on to it (she likes the Mineral Veil though). I love the whole line. I’ve tried other stuff, but always come back.
Primer is a great idea, btw. You can start with Smashbox, or try Bare Mineral’s primer, Prime Time – both excellent, although the Prime Time is cheaper. You know what I use? Monistat Anti-Chafe Powder Gel. Same stuff, like $7 a tube. You may have to try a couple to see which one works best for you.
If you have access to a Bare Escentuals store, I highly recommend you pop in for a makeover. Sephora can do it too, but it’s usually more calm in the BE store!
Bare Minerals is the best. I was never a “powder” kind of girl but it’s convinced me. Buy it on QVC or HSN – they have the best prices. I’ve had mine for two years – it lasts forever (which makes it incredibly inexpensive).
Bare Minerals for sure!!! It’s awesome.
I’ve heard that for pictures you shouldn’t wear anything with SPF in it–because it causes the flash to make your face look like it is refelcting the light. Not 100% on that, but you might look into it. I don’t wear base-so I don’t have any advice there.
BareMinerals fan myself. Started using it early this Spring and in 35 years no one ever told me that I had a beautiful, natural looking complexion until then. AMAZING! And my photographs are hands down better than ever!
LAURA MERCIER. Omg. I’ve had good skin my whole life – but when I started using Laura Mercier, I got double the “wow, you have nice skin” comments.
Her tinted moisturizer is great, but I use the moisturizing foundation. It rocks.
I have dry skin, and Bare Minerals looks gross on me.
OK, I don’t want to beat a dead horse, but I REALLY think you should try Bare Minerals like so many other gals here have recommended.
I switched maybe 9 months ago now, and I am never going back to liquid foundation or tinted moisturizer. There are multiple foundation shades, so you will inevitably find a match for your skin. I actually use two different shades (light and golden medium) to match my own skin, and it’s been faaaab-you-lous. Even still, because the foundation is powder, you can wear as much or as little as you want. I wear “Glee” as blush, and it’s the happiest shade of pink you can imagine. It will make you glow without reflecting camera flashes into outer space. I have worn Benefit’s “Throbb” and Nars “Orgasm” as blushes as well, and they have looked great on top of Bare Minerals foundation too.
I don’t recommend their eyeshadows because loose powder applied to your eyelids can get really messy really quickly. I stick with pressed, compact eyeshadows from Stila and Clinique. For mascara, I use a drugstore brand! Maybelline’s “Volum’ Express” in “very black” has been a gift from heaven for my short, sparse eyeslashes.
Hope this helps and that the Bare Minerals case just got a +1!
I don’t think I’ve ever commented and I’ve been reading your blog since your J days. But I had to comment on this…
Bare Minerals! It’s hands down the best and I love it so.
For your wedding day, I would get it professionally done. That way, you can relax and it will be perfect (and won’t melt!) The whole wedding party did this for my brother’s (August!) wedding and I was happy with my makeup as a bridesmaid.
As for good make-up, I am also a tint girl. I really like Maybelline Pure Makeup. They say it’s 50% water, but I’m doubtful. However, it’s light but covers well. I always follow it up with their Dream Matte Powder. This makes it light but covers really well. And if it’s humid, they the powder keeps you from melting
OK, so I don’t wear foundation, but what I do is wear MAC concealer in my trouble spots, mixed with moisturizer when I need it. BUT I do read (and occasionally get paid — not by cosmetics companies — to write) about beauty, and I’ll tell you the one thing I’ve seen over and over: DO NOT wear bare minerals when you want to be photographed. You will look shiny. DO wear a foundation primer, and Smashbox photo finish foundation primer (Sephora has it) is recommended again and again.
MAC does make foundation, and I’d be if it is anywhere near as good as their concealer, it’ll make you look flawless.
I really like Bare Minerals too, but it’s not great if you’re taking photos. The built-in SPF reflects white/pastey. I also like Revlon photo finish, for liquid foundation without SPF. It feels just slightly heavier than moisturizer and has medium coverage. Supposedly it’s just like MUFE foundation (from Sephora), but I’ve never tried that. Revlon’s also $12 and the MUFE is around $40.
If you’re also looking for other makeup, Benefit just came out with 2 palettes that have eyeshadow, eyeliner, blush, mascara and bronzer in them. I got Sunday Funday & am having good luck with it so far.
THANK YOU!
I needed the exact same advice for the exact same reasons. I hate wearing makeup (mainly because I’d rather just sleep for those extra 5-10 minutes) so this was very timely!
L’Oreal Bare Naturale mineral foundation, then Bare Escentuals finishing powder! I always start with Physician’s Formula green concealer stick to cover red areas.
I vote for Bare Minerals too. Love it! And it lasts for so long – even longer for you, since you don’t go “full face” often.
I love anything Clarins – have finally (at 33!) found a brand that works with my oily here, dry there skin (which also changes greatly depeding on the season, cycle etc).
I’ve only used their skincare products but have recently started with some of their make-up and love! the foundation.
MAC is awesome too, esp the mineralize skin finish that laura also mentioned above, for the light coverage.
I personally like Origins. Of course, I can’t remember which foundation I picked up there but I loved it.
The key, however, to not looking like a ghost in pictures is avoiding a foundation with SPF in it the day/evening that said pictures will be taken. SPF (apparently) has reflective-ness in it that deflects sunlight and, therefore, a flash. I have olive skin, but in pictures where I am wearing my everyday SPF stuff, I am blindingly white. This is a tip I picked up from desperate Google searches and it’s worked for me.
I just want to put in my ringing endorsement for Bare Minerals. Simple, beautiful, light. Sometimes I use Tarte cheek stain instead of the Bare Minerals blush. I don’t like spending lots of time fussing with makeup and these two work for me!
I am a huge fan of BareMinerals as well. Though for everyday I am a Laura Mercier tinted moisturizer kind of girl. For big events it’s MAC. Not too much SPF or it will reflect light and make you look washed out in your pictures
I use a brand called Beauty Control. It’s a wet/dry foundation, but basically, I just use a brush and brush it on. It takes no time at all and works great!
I would not recommend Bare Minerals if you have sensitive or skin that is prone to breakouts. I know peeps love it, but I wouldn’t stake pictures on it
However I LOVE LOVE LOVE Laura Mercier. I’ve been wearing the Oil Free Tinted Moisturizer for years. And their Flawless Face kit is the best — plus they have this powder called candlelight which is amazing and gives you a lovely glow.
I love mineral makeup. I tried Bare Minerals and hated it. I couldn’t get the shade right. But then I discovered Avon’s mineral makeup and I absolutely love it! It’s light, but can be used to cover up any blemish or reddish skin too. The secret: swirl your brush into it, then tap the bottom of your brush a couple times against the counter or your palm to work it deep into the brush before you try applying it. Just layer it on to get the right amount of coverage for you. There are several shades (unlike Bare Minerals) so you don’t have to mix it with other shades. And it’s gentle to your skin and has a natural spf. And best of all? It’s inexpensive! One of only a handful of foundations that don’t make my pale skin look redish or fake in pictures.
I’m not a big makeup girl either but when I know I am going to be in photos I make sure I put on primer before the foundation. It makes a HUGE difference!!
Bare Minerals all they way. I’d never worn foundation in my life before–I couldn’t stand the way it felt, but this is light, covers up all splotchiness, and your skin still looks like skin! You don’t even need a concealer–you can just put on the regular foundation with their concealer brush. I loved their blush too, until I found Benefit’s Posie Tint. It’s wonderful too.
If you want a great liquid foundation, I would suggest the Giorgio Armani brand. I don’t wear foundation very often and like that I don’t feel gross when wearing it. They will also give you a sample to try before buying it. Good luck in your search. Let us know what you choose.
For me, the mineral foundations just didn’t have staying power, and the Almay Smartshade would rub off. I have normal to oily skin. (I also tried MAC, which my wedding photographer suggested, but it did not fare well for me in hot weather and looked worse than the cheaper stuff.)
I am loving the Maybelline SuperStay foundation… It seems to wear off less with time than the other foundations I’ve tried. I work in a lab, and the collar on my lab coat is still white after several weeks… I do foundation first, then concealer, and I use a light powder to “seal it.”
Each person’s face is different, but from what people have posted here, you definitely have a few leads to follow!
Bare Minerals & Dior Show mascara
didn’t know about the SPF reflecting thing in photos – great tip!
Like almost everyone else, I can only rave about BareMinerals – but that’s for everyday wear (along with a teensy bit of Nars Orgasm or Oasis, depending on my clothing colors, and some mascara). But I agree with someone else’s previous comment that BareMinerals doesn’t seem to photograph very well. When I go out for a night on the town, I use Clarins illuminating (or something like that) liquid foundation (my skin is super sensitive and that seems to be the only liquid foundation that doesn’t make my skin red & blotchy the next day) and add brownish/taupe eye shadow. HOWEVER, I’d HIGHLY recommend you try Laura Mercier for your wedding stuff. Their colors are all light and fresh and airy and natural and beautiful. On special occasions, I’ve taken my Clarins foundation over to a Laura Mercier counter and had them apply my foundation with all of their other eye, cheek & lip colors. They are very wedding-friendly for the ladies who don’t tend to wear TONS of makeup and like to look beautiful but natural and not too overly done up or fake. It’s a classy line for those special days. Walk into a Macy’s on a random Tuesday and just ask for a free make-over, I’m sure you’ll agree.
I’ve also tried MAC for random fun nights that I wanted to be noticed and feel glamorous, but I would NOT recommend that line for wedding stuff. And also NOT if you’re trying to go for the natural beauty look (it’s more vavavoom glamourous than subtle). Another suggestion would be to walk into Sephora on some random Monday night (or another time when they are not busy) and find a salesperson who looks friendly & bored & explain your wishes & they’ll help you pick colors and items from all of the different lines. It’s all free & there is NO pressure to buy. But this is hit or miss cuz you just might get a salesperson who doesn’t listen/care & will just send you to their personal favorites products. HOWEVER, if you have the time, it is a fun way to twitter away an hour. 
But do yourself a favor and go to the Laura Mercier counter at a dept store! 
And above all, have fun!!!
Like almost everyone else, I can only rave about BareMinerals – but that’s for everyday wear (along with a teensy bit of Nars Orgasm or Oasis, depending on my clothing colors, and some mascara). But I agree with someone else’s previous comment that BareMinerals doesn’t seem to photograph very well. When I go out for a night on the town, I use Clarins illuminating (or something like that) liquid foundation (my skin is super sensitive and that seems to be the only liquid foundation that doesn’t make my skin red & blotchy the next day) and add brownish/taupe eye shadow. HOWEVER, I’d HIGHLY recommend you try Laura Mercier for your wedding stuff. Their colors are all light and fresh and airy and natural and beautiful. On special occasions, I’ve taken my Clarins foundation over to a Laura Mercier counter and had them apply my foundation with all of their other eye, cheek & lip colors. They are very wedding-friendly for the ladies who don’t tend to wear TONS of makeup and like to look beautiful but natural and not too overly done up or fake. It’s a classy line for those special days. Walk into a Macy’s on a random Tuesday and just ask for a free make-over, I’m sure you’ll agree.
I’ve also tried MAC for random fun nights that I wanted to be noticed and feel glamorous, but I would NOT recommend that line for wedding stuff. And also NOT if you’re trying to go for the natural beauty look (it’s more vavavoom glamourous than subtle). Another suggestion would be to walk into Sephora on some random Monday night (or another time when they are not busy) and find a salesperson who looks friendly & bored & explain your wishes & they’ll help you pick colors and items from all of the different lines. It’s all free & there is NO pressure to buy. But this is hit or miss cuz you just might get a salesperson who doesn’t listen/care & will just send you to their personal favorites products. HOWEVER, if you have the time, it is a fun way to twitter away an hour. 
But do yourself a favor and go to the Laura Mercier counter at a dept store! 
And above all, have fun!!!
Like almost everyone else, I can only rave about BareMinerals – but that’s for everyday wear (along with a teensy bit of Nars Orgasm or Oasis, depending on my clothing colors, and some mascara). But I agree with someone else’s previous comment that BareMinerals doesn’t seem to photograph very well. When I go out for a night on the town, I use Clarins illuminating (or something like that) liquid foundation (my skin is super sensitive and that seems to be the only liquid foundation that doesn’t make my skin red & blotchy the next day) and add brownish/taupe eye shadow. HOWEVER, I’d HIGHLY recommend you try Laura Mercier for your wedding stuff. Their colors are all light and fresh and airy and natural and beautiful. On special occasions, I’ve taken my Clarins foundation over to a Laura Mercier counter and had them apply my foundation with all of their other eye, cheek & lip colors. They are very wedding-friendly for the ladies who don’t tend to wear TONS of makeup and like to look beautiful but natural and not too overly done up or fake. It’s a classy line for those special days. Walk into a Macy’s on a random Tuesday and just ask for a free make-over, I’m sure you’ll agree.
I’ve also tried MAC for random fun nights that I wanted to be noticed and feel glamorous, but I would NOT recommend that line for wedding stuff. And also NOT if you’re trying to go for the natural beauty look (it’s more vavavoom glamourous than subtle). Another suggestion would be to walk into Sephora on some random Monday night (or another time when they are not busy) and find a salesperson who looks friendly & bored & explain your wishes & they’ll help you pick colors and items from all of the different lines. It’s all free & there is NO pressure to buy. But this is hit or miss cuz you just might get a salesperson who doesn’t listen/care & will just send you to their personal favorites products. HOWEVER, if you have the time, it is a fun way to twitter away an hour. 
But do yourself a favor and go to the Laura Mercier counter at a dept store! 
And above all, have fun!!!
I recommend Cargo they have a great foundation & a really nice concealer/foundation in a tube– They are the best I have ever tried.
I know many people rave about Bare Minerals- but if you have sensitive skin at all, they can be very irritating. I was itchy after trying them once.
I skimmed through other responses and I will have to agree, Bare Minerals all. the. way. Seriously, you can’t go wrong with that stuff. It goes on lightly and doesn’t ever leave you feeling like you have something caked on your skin. I also have the Mineral Veil which adds a nice shimmer in the summer, although the “Warmth” stuff is always really good but I’m a NARS “Orgasm” blush-a-holic, so that ultimately rules out. Bare Minerals just added a Matte version of their loose powder foundation line and, according to the lady at Sephora, that’s better for someone who tends to have oilier skin. The original formula is good for combination skin. And my friend who reviews make-up as a side job says to never buy mascara from Sephora, or like places, because the ones at the drug store are equally as good. I was shelling out $20+ for a while for Bad Lash by Benefit (amazing, not gonna lie), but then she ripped the snob right out of me and brought me back to the aisles of Target. Almay is my fav and only $6. As for eye shadow, hands down, Urban Decay. Bare Minerals has a line of eye shadows too but I have yet to try it. Goodluck
Boy everybody has their favorite! And there’s so much good stuff out now. How to choose.. how to choose…
One way I choose is watching YouTube videos. Then you get to see how people use the products and how they look ( at least on some people ). I find it really helpful.
I agree that Bare Escentual Minerals are great BUT do NOT wear them on your wedding day as they reflect the light and your photos will not turn out as nicely as if you wore a regular foundation. Both my make-up artist friends as well as my photographer said to skip mineral foundation and sunscreen on my wedding day (in 13 days!!). I’m sticking to my old, reliable friend Bobbi Brown. Her line is fantastic and works with all skin tones. I agree with a previous commenter to go to the counter and find a make-up artist whose own make-up you like and ask her for help.
Good luck! You’ll look beautiful!
Make-up Forever HD is amazing, lightweight, and photographs beautifully (which makes sense, since it was supposedly developed for high def film). Mineral makeup isn’t so good for a wedding because it doesn’t photograph well — it’s the titanium dioxide.
laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer & YSL Touche Eclat tapped on with your ring finger (delicate skin, ring finger is weakest) under the eye.
I say NO to powder- it always shows in photos, and you want to look accidentally, effortlessly gorgeous.
i haven’t tried bare minerals. since i have sensitive skin, i probably won’t. i did start using Trish McEvoy last fall on the recommendation of a friend. i love it! it feels light, looks great and photographs fabulously. also, i have received many compliments on my makeup since i started wearing it!
hi heather
i’d have to weigh in and recommend diorskin nude or diorskin forever – both very light but flawless and mineral based and won’t irritate sensitive skin. my sis and i both use them – we have the curse of the pale irish skin – and they’re pretty awesome. dior america has about $46 for a bottle – but it lasts about 6 months or so. definitely value for money.
http://beauty.dior.com/usa/en/base.html#/en/woman/makeup/woman-makeup-face/woman-makeup-face-fluid-foundation/untitled-12.html
Revlon ColorStay Mineral Mousse. Does not make my face itch like a lot of makeups do. Medium coverage.
Smashbox High Definition Healthy FX Foundation with PhotoFinish Primer. I guarantee it.
I’m you’re age and I think we have similar skin based on things you’ve said about yours before. Smashbox is lightweight, not too matte yet not too dewy, covers all kinds of imperfections without feeling or looking like you’re wearing anything. Do not skip the primer! These two go hand in hand.
Another one that I loved but was just too budget-busting for daily wear is Armani foundation from Saks. It makes your skin look flawless, but it was too $$$ to keep up with it.
I use bare minerals and used it for my wedding. Some folks say it doesn’t photograph well but I had no problems– I didn’t turn out all ghostly or too pale for my body (‘course I’m pretty fair). I like how it makes me look like me only more polished. I also use the Fresh umbrian clay concealer and it does wonders on under-eye circles and problem areas. The nice girl at the make-up counter told me to dab the concealer and not paint it on and it works much better. Fresh also has some real liquid foundation that is nice and pretty light-feeling if you don’t like the bare minerals/powder foundation.
Just pop in to your friendly neighborhood Sephora and have them make you up and see which you like. If you mention your wedding they will try to sell you on the super expensive “photo-finish HD blah blah” stuff that you will NEVER wear again because it is way too thick. I opted to look like myself and buy stuff I’d actually wear on a day-to-day basis. I just threw in some dramatic lipstick to make it special.
Good luck!
I rarely use make up but when I do, I use mineral makeup. I have patches of very dry skin and patches of oily, I HATE the heavy feeling of foundation and even have to be careful of lotions for the same reason. I can almost forget I’m wearing it. I have freckles and it doesn’t cover them the way foundation does. I used it for my own wedding and the photos came out lovely.
Make-Up Forever HD Foundation. It’s the best!
It’s already been said but Bare Minerals is awesome. Light, easy, looks natural. I use the foundation as a concealer too which works great.
P.S. I love love love that you referenced Eddie Izzard – he’s my favorite!
Bare minerals, lancome color ideal or photogenic & smashbox…depends on the climate & situation but all 3 are year round foundations for me! I’m. An oily combination skin type. ..so having said that these are my TOP choices.
NO BARE MINERALS FOR WEDDING PICTURES!!!
I’m getting married in October and have been playing with makeup for the past year to get it right… (i’d rather own the makeup and the skill than pay someone $$$$$ for something that washes off at night or makes me look like a transvestite in real life just cause ‘it has to be this way for the pictures!’)
Hands down, best tutorials EVER:
http://www.weddingbee.com/2010/01/23/ace-your-face-pt-1/
http://www.weddingbee.com/2010/01/28/ace-your-face-pt-2-contouring/
I ended up with a MUFE HD foundation and use the techniques above and love the way it has come out both in real life and in pictures…
For non-foundation, seriously love MUFE AquaEyes eyeliner paired with a liquid liner (Sephora’s store brand is pretty good if you let it dry long enough…), some Almay shadows, and Lash Stiletto (waterproof) mascara. I know lots of people love diorshow, but it comes off of me when i put eyedrops in and i use a lot of eyedrops! (dry eye, TMI, but whatever. See also wedding tears…)
Also NARS orgasm blush & Tarte Park Ave Princess bronzer are in my ‘best of’ bag…
Lipstick is my only remaining challenge… sigh.
Hi Heather
I use and love Chanel Vitalumiere foundation. It has won ‘Instyle’ Magazines best beauty buys for the last 2 years in a row now.
A little goes a long way and it leaves you looking radiant.
Agree with all the other comments about NARS Orgasm blusher too- although Bourjois Lilas D’or blusher is a good alternative
have fun testing out the products.
heather
Benefit’s Some Kinda Gorgeous! It’s a very light cream to powder and they call it a foundation “faker” but it’s a great product.
I also love Almay smart shade liquid foundation–it really works! And it isn’t too heavy.
And if it’s a summer wedding situation, I might also recommend Smashbox Photo Finish Primer (the original, not hte light). It’s the ONLY thing I’ve ever found that keeps me from being shiny after a few hours.
(Also have to disagree with the mineral makeup believers. That stuff doesn’t work for everyone and those loose powders are messy and hard to travel with.)
I’ve been wanting to try Makeup Forever HD. I hear that it is one of the best foundations for being photographed. The only reason I am waiting to get is is because I’m waiting for my old foundation to run out. Please let us know what you choose and if you like it. : )
Unless you have bad skin or lots of blemishes, I don’t see the need for ever wearing full foundation. When I want to get all dolled up, I focus on making my eyes more dramatic and maybe wearing a bit more blush. Everyone has a different preference, but after years of searching I’ve landed with Bare Minerals. However, I too wasn’t happy with their foundation colors and couldn’t find the perfect match. Instead, I use Mac’s face protector with 50spf and Mac prep/prime powder and then use Bare Minerals warmth and their finishing powder/veil. I’ve been very happy to far to have good coverage that lasts w/o it ever looking heavy.
I love Aveda dual foundation. It has an spf of 12 and can be worn alone or over your tinted foundation.
I’m going to jump on the Bare Minerals bandwagon. Also, I used mineral make-up for my wedding day, and am very happy with my pictures. My skin looks airbrushed, and I don’t look washed out at all.
I love the NARS oil-free foundation: http://www.narscosmetics.com/Oil-Free-Foundation-C58_makeup_7.aspx
I layer bare minerals on top of that. I highly recommend; the combination works great for all day.
Also, I don’t know if you wear a lot of eye makeup or already use a primer, but Urban Decay Primer Potion is the BEST eye makeup primer I’ve ever used. My eyeliner stays put even after a night out, as does my eyeshadow. No more eyeshadow crease!
http://www.urbandecay.com/categories/EyeshadowPrimerPotion.cfm
Have tried all the ‘most recommended’ products over the years (e.g. In Style’s best beauty buys). I have come up with the perfect approach for me and my very sensitive skin:
1)As a base, Smashbox Photo Finish makes a HUGE difference for non-shine especially in photographs. Once I apply it, it feels like there is nothing on my skin, so I don’t end up with a heavy, layered feeling at the end.
2) Often, I use Laura Mercier’s tinted foundation. I dislike heavy foundations, so I use MAC Studio Sculpt, which I find gives great coverage without feeling heavy. If my skin is in a clear phase and I want something lighter, I use Chanel Vitalumiere. It’s like silk for the face. Suprising coverage given how sheer it is.
3) After having been hooked on Cle de peu beaute powders, I am now a devotee of Laura Mercier’s loose setting powder- I don’t end up with powder-face, and it does the job well. I live in a hot climate, so I keep her pressed setting powder in my bag for t-zone touch-ups.
4) Agree with others re: NARS orgasm blush.
5) After trying all the new formulations of mascara, I am back to the tried and true Definicils (Lancome).
We used the products above (with the MAC foundation) for my sister’s wedding make-up, and she looked fantastic, in real life, and in the photos.
I love bare minerals and used it for my wedding. I sell mineral makeup as my job right now – Lancome has a really great mineral makeup, and estee lauder’s mineral makeup is good too and provides a little bit more coverage.
Pur minerals is a good option as well, and I like that one a lot. Give it a try, I like it as much as Bare Minerals, and sometimes I like it more.
Tally up another vote for Bare Minerals…its magic. Love it. My skin has actually cleared up a bit since I started using it.
About Bare Escentuals – I used to use it, but I stopped. Two reasons: my skin is on the dry/sensitive side, and I felt like powder formulations were drying me out more. Second and related reason, I no longer felt like the coverage was good enough (I’m in my early 30s; my complexion is OK, no acne, but some redness).
I now love the Sally Hansen Natural Beauty Inspired by Carmindy line – it’s a great, inexpensive, well-kept secret. You can get it at CVS and Rite Aid. The formulations are pretty light and the foundation provides good coverage without being heavy. Paraben free too. Good luck!
I’m with Emily on this one. For your wedding day, go to a professional make-up artist who has experience with photo shoots. It’s more expensive and weddings already cost a bundle, but if you’re paying a fortune for the photos, you will want to look just right. For everyday, I agree with everyone else, Bare Minerals is awesome. I also love Smashbox.
I use Laura Mercier foundation….NARS blush in Orgasm, Makeup Forever eyeliner (love them!) and Fresh Magic Wands Mini mascara duo (Supernova & Firebird – amazing combination). I rarely wear the foundation (since March, hello, I live in Houston, it’s HOT!) but the rest suits me nicely. You’ve got time girl, try all suggestions…..if it works well in this heat, you’re golden!!!!
My favorite brands are Bobbie Brown and Laura Mercier. Both product lines are work and special event-appropriate and high quality. If you have a Nordstrom/Bloomingdales/Blue Mercury anywhere near you, it’s worth going in and having some of their reps work with you on finding the right products and shades–you can see if you like the product before spending a ton of money.
I’m like you….I don’t like a lot of make up, but I think a good primer, foundation, and concealer are necessary. Just to even things out, I suppose. I’d recommend Smashbox Photo Finish (they have a number of options depending on your skin and needs but I use the one with Dermaxyl), Smashbox Camera Ready concealer stick, and Benefit’s POREfessional (it’s very light and shear and can be layered under or over make up to refine pores all day). Finally, if you’re looking for a good lipstick, Clinique came out with a line of colors last winter that are supposed to make your teeth look whiter. I didn’t want to risk added teeth sensitivity from whitening treatments, so I picked up two shades and wear them all the time…very moisturizing. Hope that helps as a good basis if nothing else!
If you don’t want to look like a ghost on your wedding day stay away from foundations with spf in them (that goes for mineral-based as well). It’s the mineral part of the spf (zinc oxide) that reflects light and makes you look like caspar when the flash goes off. I did my own makeup on the big day and this was lesson numero uno.
My favorite tinted moisturizer, which can be layered for more coverage, is Cosmedicine. Dumb name but it doesn’t break me out and gives me that dewy finish I so covet. It has spf so skip it for the big day.
This is a tinted moisturizer that covers like a foundation but feels like your regular stuff. I use it with mineral powder (BareMinerals if the pocketbook allows but Mineral Wear from Target if it doesn’t)
http://www.sephora.com/browse/product.jhtml?id=P20044&categoryId=RPYMAL&navAction=jump
Happy Hunting!
BARE MINERALS!!
Not sure about the photo problem, maybe research that some more, but from the first time I tried it, I can’t IMAGINE putting liquid or cream foundation on my face ever again!!!
Bare Minerals! I never used to wear makeup and about two years ago I tried it and have never looked back. I also live in east Texas (Bryan to be specific) and it handles the humidity beautifully! I love that I never feel like I have makeup on and I get great coverage for those spots and imperfections.
Now, I just got married in April and I had my makeup done by one of the salons here and they use the Jane Iredale mineral makeup and it came out beautifully! I would strongly recommend having someone do your makeup for the wedding. You will need to wear more makeup than you think for it to photograph properly and if you are not much of a make up girl, like me, it can seem like way too much. But neither I nor any of my bridesmaids looked overdone in the photos.
Good luck!!
Bare Minerals.
(Some Kinda Gorgeous from Benefit is also terrific. But start with Bare Minerals.)
It’s pricey, but La Mer foundation is light and amazing. You can actually get a sample that will last forever (for samples). I’m actually a tinted moisterizer with a little MAC powder to blend any blotchy areas for a daily routine including work makeup. I just use this when I need a little more.
Bojana at the Saks counter (Galleria) is the best and generous with samples. Doesn’t push hard on other products. But I usually buy something even if it’s just the lip balm.
Ummm…I love makeup. I’ve actually done many of my friends’ makeup for special occasions. Guess maybe we need to have a makeup date instead of walking dates?
Forgive me if this is repeat – I don’t have the patience to read all of the above, but it seems to mostly be about Bare Minerals. I like Neutrogena Healthy Skin – it has good coverage, some sunscreen, and works well with my dry skin (so if you have oily skin, it might be too heavy?). And it’s pretty cheap at the drugstore/Target. I finish it off with Neutrogena’s pressed mineral powder, so there is at least a little mineral action
.
Heather,
Bare minerals is good in the dead of winter in texas but it runs during the summer. For photos dior airflash or guerlin
Bare Minerals – I like it in the summer because I feel like liquid foundation is too runny. For wedding you should try model in a bottle which preserves your makeup (its a spray) or use a light hairspray on your face like the sebastian brand one (the light hold in the super tall bottle – forgot the name).
Also check out lollipop26 on youtube for beauty reviews. Yes she gets products sent to her – but I think she’s pretty honest. She will 100% dis it if she is sent something and doesn’t like it – and she always discloses.
Sonia Kahusk from Target: I use the radiant tinted moisturizer, mineral translucent powder, blush, eye palette, liner, and mascara, it covers well, is light, and makes your skin look flawless. The eye makeup is simple, but the palette lends itself to everyday wear or an intense smoky eye if you want one.
I’ve been using Cover Girl Aquasmooth for a few years and I love it! It’s a creamy powder, so you don’t need to put foundation on first (light and airy) and since it’s water based, it comes off easily without a lot of makeup remover. It also photographs well, without looking cakey or ghost white, so give it a whirl! It’s pretty cheap ($7.99), so even if you don’t love it, you won’t have wasted much
Hi, Fish. I’ve written in a couple of times before. I’m the makeup artist from Glee. Here are a few foundations I love: Laura Mercier Oil-Free, Armani Luminous Silk, Chanel’s Vitalumiere or Prolumiere. Makeup Forever HD is also pretty good. If you want to stick with your tinted moisturizer what you can do is get what is, hands down, the best mineral powder out there called Colorescience & use it over your tinted moisturizer when you want to get gussied up. You can use it in place of the tinted moisturizer, too, but the combo of the 2 gives great coverage. It’s also got an SPF of either 30 or 50. I love this stuff. I sound like a commercial when I talk about it but it’s worth buying for the SPF factor alone. It’s not cheap, though. Judging by your picture you’d want Sunforgettable in Perfectly Clear.
Ok, I’m stepping off my soapbox now. Good luck.
I already use Colorescience in Second Skin. It just doesn’t cover as nice as I’d like for photos. But it sure is good stuff.
So I’m a little late in the game here at commenting. But if you haven’t yet, give Mary Kay a try. You can search for a local consultant at http://www.marykay.com, and she/he can do a personal apt w/you to get an exact match of foundation (which they have a ton to choose from: tinted, mineral powder, and liquid coverage). The can also help you find a look that is 100% you that you can do on your own if you want. And if you find a great consultant who really knows their stuff, they will usually do your bridal makeup for FREE!! I LOVE LOVE LOVE my consultant, but we are both in Norther Cali, so that will not help you.
Check out thier YouTube Channel too: I just do a google search for “mary kay you tube channel”.
I started wearing Mac makeup several years ago when my cousin started working for them. Their products are often used professionally in modeling photo shoots and in movies. You can go to any Mac stored and they will do your face up exactly how you want it and then show you how to use their products. I’ve been using their stuff for YEARS and have never felt so good about how I look in photos including weddings. It is amazing stuff!!
I’m a little late to the discussion here but I’m going to put my two cents in nonetheless:
I will say that I like Bare Minerals but it can be a little time consuming when I’m in a rush. When I just need to touch stuff up or when I’m feeling rather minimalistic, I use Benefit Get Even…it goes on quick, and makes your skin look smooth as can be.
Bare minerals for sure! You don’t feel like you have tons of makeup caked on.