Miranda Kerr, the epitome of glowing skin, yes? Photo: Getty
When it comes to make-up, I like to think of foundation as the underwear of face paint: you want it to feel comfortable and hide any flaws, without it looking as if you're wearing any at all. Until recently, full-coverage foundation had to be pore-cloggingly rich in order to go the distance, but the beauty of the latest high-tech formulas is that they not only feel weightless on, but a little product goes a long way. "The biggest mistake most women make when it comes to foundation is that they tend to layer the product too thick, which leaves the skin looking flat and fine lines more pronounced," says make-up artist Elsa Morgan.
She says the trick to keeping it real is to use the stuff sparingly, focusing on the centre of the face where the skin needs the most coverage. "Start by dabbing a dot on the cheeks, nose, forehead and chin, and gently blend the product using your fingers so the coverage softens as it reaches the jaw and hairline," she says. Let it settle while you get on with the rest of your make-up. Then, if you're still craving extra coverage, try a cream-based concealer such as Napoleon Perdis The One Concealer, $36, (02) 8595 0911, that you can reapply throughout the day to mask trouble spots, such as dark circles or the odd blemish, without ruining the sheer finish. Then, just act natural.
THREE OF THE BEST SKIN PERFECTORS If you try only one new foundation this season, make it one of these:
1. Bourjois Paris 123 Perfect, $32. Boasts mauve, green and yellow pigments to tackle redness and dullness in one. 1800 181 040.
2. Revlon ColorStay Whipped Crème Makeup, $34.95. Oil-free with a semi-matte finish, it's perfect for all skin types. 1800 025 488.
3. Yves Saint Laurent Le Teint Touche Éclat, $78. Finally, a foundation to match the cult highlighter. 1300 651 991.
