Makeup came gradually in my life. I came from being a little tomboy that scoffs at the idea of such a fussy, “girl-y” routine to a lady that sees its morale boosting potential; from detesting occasions when my mum would have an MUA do my makeup to never needing one anymore; from being a clueless shopper to an experimental one. It’s been a beautiful journey of discovery.

Initial thoughts as a newbie, I really didn’t see myself benefiting from using a foundation makeup. I had thought you only need it if you want the full service makeup, heavy and all. That you’d end up looking like someone headed to the prom or some formal function. It was later in my young life that I learned it’s not always the case.

As I explored the world of makeup, I came across Mineral Makeup along the way — this happened a couple of years or so back. During the initial stages, I had thought that I lacked the skill (and patience) to truly incorporate this sort of makeup into my routine. I reckon I was already comfortable with the traditional options even when it does offer benefits special to it. I simply believed I won’t be a fan. Er, not until I got to try the mineral makeup line under a personal favourite brand, The Body Shop, called Nature’s Minerals.

Folks from The Body Shop USA approached me last year with an offer to try it. I have to admit, though there’s a mineral makeup line from The Body Shop, I wouldn’t have considered buying them. I’ve already stated my reasons, favourite brand or not. But since they were willing to send key products in my preferred shades (yes, the let me choose the shade for each makeup!) — foundation, eye shadow and blush — so I can give them a try, I thought there’s no harm in making room for them, giving Mineral Makeup another shot. I was hoping for a more positive experience.

Today, first on the list is the Nature’s Minerals Foundation with SPF25 in 02 Shade.

Achieve a healthy, radiant complexion with ultra-fine minerals that blend evenly to protect skin and reduce redness and imperfections.

Beauty Conundrums
Personally, I prefer liquid foundations. However, I found that using this sort of foundation had its own allure. It provides a light to medium long-lasting coverage which I sometimes prefer on more casual and active days wherein I’d prefer less makeup on. So, on relatively warmer days or when I’ll be off to a badminton game, wearing it won’t be such a chore to maintain.

It provides the right amount of SPF which allows me the option to use a lighter moisturiser underneath. I usually use a creamy moisturiser, which goes well with liquid makeup, for it’s SPF. But now, I can simply opt to go for a serum. But it works well with most of the moisturisers I’d be using for the day — Olay Total Effects, Elizabeth Arden Intervene Pause and Effect, BIODROGA PURAN Formula 24-hour Care or just the Olay Regenerist Regenerating Serum.

I can appreciate that it gives the skin a certain luster and healthy radiance, none of those powdered-skin look which makes the skin appear dull and lifeless. Of course, this also depends on the shade you use. The ultra-fine minerals help in keeping the skin tone even, hiding fine lines and disguises small blemishes. In terms of effectively hiding pores, I’m giving it low marks. A disappointment, actually.

Application is relatively easy. It can get a little messy, which is a bit annoying but it’s manageable. All you have to do is be careful in opening the lid after having tipped it over. And steer clear of the fan. Hehe.

Here’s a tip on how to apply it:

1. TIP IT
Tip the pot upside down so a little powder is deposited in the lid.
2. WORK IT
Work the powder into your foundation brush using circular motions.
3. TAP IT
Tap any excess powder from the brush. Less is more. No powder should be visible on the bristles of the brush.
4. USE IT
Use circular motions to apply, starting at the center and working outward around the face.

Pots have stoppers with fine holes to help you regulate dispensing the mineral makeup, which I find highly useful and practical.

The Body Shop Nature’s Minerals Foundation is available in six (6) shades and costs $25 (roughly around Php 1,200.00). It’s a fair price for foundation makeup at present, IMHO.

You can check out past FOTDs for look references:

Sunday, Another Errand Day

A Girls’ Day Out

So, have any of you ladies tried this mineral foundation? Or perhaps you’ve been using mineral makeup but from a different brand? What’s your preference and why? Also, what are your reservations in giving mineral makeup a go? I’d appreciate your thoughts!

Photo © 2009 Sasha Manuel

Quoted Text: thebodyshop-usa.com