MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Natural

                               

What MAC say: "A luxurious domed face powder with minerals, slowly baked to provide a dimensional yet natural-matte finish. Provides perfect low coverage. Use to set and fix foundation or as a touch up throughout the day"

I came across this when I went to a MAC counter to by a new Studio Fix Powder. I use powders after applying foundation to set the foundation in place and prevent shine. I therefore only use it on oily areas (T-Zone) to avoid looking too matte (and unhealthy). However, I'd been thinking this combination was making my face look too heavy, and the assistant introduced me to this. It does the job perfectly. 

It basically gives a finishing touch to your foundation. Because it has a very slight sparkle to it, your face doesn't look to cakey and it maintains a bit of a glow. It prevents my make up slipping and face becoming oily ALL DAY. 

There are a nice variety of shades on offer, but I'd recommend going into the shop and having a real good test as weirdly some of the medium colours look lighter than the light ones. 

It's not cheap at £20.50, but it's worth it.

For more details and to buy online:

http://www.maccosmetics.co.uk/product/shaded/159/1343/Face/Powder/Mineralize-Skinfinish-Natural/index.tmpl

My top beauty buys

Clockwise (ish):

• No. 7 protect and perfect beuty serum: I'm not sure if this works but its never to early to start with the anti-aging process, and this product is supposed to be the cheapest of the best! It has a gorgeous texture and doesn't leave my skin feeling oily and clogged
• Nivea Lotion: This is OLD-SCHOOL! But its the best thing for taking off mascara with. Trrrust.
• Umberto Giannini, Enviable body blow-dry spray: This DOES add volume, and apparently protects from heat as well. No stickiness or stiffness.
• Cocoa Butter Forumlae moisturising cream: Smells wonderful, feels wonderful, and does the trick wonderfully
• Dry shampoo: Any brand will do, but it really is useful, especially for those with fringes, for de-greasing, adding texture, and a bit of volume
• Clearasil ultra face pads: Yesss, at the age of 22 I STILL use clearasil. But I have tough skin that's still oily and prone to break-outs, and I can trust this to always do the job. My skin is pretty damn clear because of it!
• Vichy normderm anti-imperfection cream: This is the BOMB. It just works. It reduces pore size, oiliness, and is a fantastic base for make-up. I owe it all to this product.
• Superdrug Solait fake-tan spray: I sometimes spray this lightly over my face and chest before applying make-up. It gives even application and a sun kissed look.
• Rimmel instant tan: BRILLIANT for legs for a night out, especially when mixed with a cheap dark foundation which helps to cover bruises and blemishes. Make sure you use a tanning glove to prevent (very) orange hands!
• Aussi Miricle hair insurance leave-in conditioner spray: I have long thin tangly hair, and spraying this in before combing it wet really helps
• Clean & Clear daily wash: I try not to use exfoliating washes too often as I think it inflames my skin a bit which can sometimes make it oilyer. However, when needed (to scrub off heavy make-up days) this is a nice gentle one which smells super
• Clearasil ultra gel face wash: I use this twice a day, every day. It really seems to do the job.
• Moroccan hair oil: my friend in America recommend this to me (where I bought it for wayyy cheaper), and it does seem to help my slightly heat-damaged hair. Don't use too much though!

Sweet Lucy

This is Lucy, a good friend of mine. I took this photo back in 6th form for A-Level photography. We both went our own separate ways after school, but 4 years on we've recently re-kindled our friendship and often meet in the city for cheeky late-afternoon drinks. As you can see she's a real beauty, and I'm so happy that she's back in my life! Luce-when are you free next week?

Joanna Claire