And now, a foundation that looks like real skin

Dear Rissa,

I like the products you have been recommending, especially the ones that give a very natural look (such as eyebrow liners, mascaras, highlighters). But what about for face powder or foundation — can you suggest a good brand that looks like skin? Most powders appear cakey or dry. Even if it is in my correct shade, it is obvious that I am wearing powder.

Shiela DG

For a face powder foundation that looks like real skin, I recently discovered Becca Boudoir Skin Collection Mineral Powder Foundation (available only at Adora, Greenbelt 5, Makati). I was skeptical at first because most mineral powders give off a slight shine, a metal-like smell, and often settle into fine lines accentuating wrinkles. What intrigued me was its promise to deliver fantasy skin that you could “wear even to bed to mimic smooth, perfect skin around the clock.”

The Becca Boudoir Skin Mineral Powder Foundation is made with pure mineral pigments, which feel very sheer and weightless. I was wowed the first time I tried it because it felt like I absolutely had nothing on. Best of all, it also looked like I had nothing on! Yes, no fake powdery look. It gave the illusion of real skin, but a better version of it. My own husband couldn’t tell I had powder on. I myself had to use a magnifying mirror to see actual evidence that I was wearing powder foundation. If anything, it also made my skin feel incredibly smooth! I couldn’t stop touching my face to see how silky it felt. Being anal about the beauty products I try, I even took photos of myself under all kinds of lighting (daylight, white light, warm white, with flash, and without flash). It made my skin look amazing under all kinds of conditions. It did not accentuate fine lines, it never looked cakey, chalky or ashy or gave an unsightly shine to my combination skin. The powder was long-wearing and the color stayed true, never fading or changing. My skin looked so darn beautiful! I was impressed. 

The Becca Boudoir Skin Mineral Powder Foundation earns extra beauty points in my book because it comes in a portable pressed formulation in a handy compact with a built-in mirror. Most mineral powders come in pots, which make it a mess to use (so much product is also wasted!) and even harder to retouch! The Becca mineral powder foundation is easy to carry in your bag. All you need is a kabuki brush for times you need to retouch. 

“This is an indispensable product! It’s super quick to apply with a beautifully flawless, yet very natural-looking coverage, plus it’s good for the skin!” shares Becca founder Rebecca Morrice Williams. “I wear this foundation to the gym and am amazed that it lasts through my entire spin class,” she additionally reveals. “I walk out looking respectable — hallelujah!”

Yes, it’s not just long-wearing but also water-resistant. The Becca mineral powder foundation is infused with antioxidant vitamins A, B, C, and E for anti-aging benefits. The mineral complex from red algae supplies minerals to the skin and improves circulation, resulting in healthier skin. Non-drying, it is also infused with aloe vera and honeysuckle flower, giving the skin a soothing and moisturizing effect. It protects the skin with natural SPF pigments and is free from parabens, phenoxyethanol, oil, fragrance, alcohol, chemical dyes, talc, and other fillers. This product is non-irritating and is suitable for all ages and all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin. It’s even suitable to use after cosmetic procedures and facials. Available in nine shades, you can easily find the perfect shade, which will make your husband think you have perfect skin!

Rissa

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No More Bad, Greasy Hair Day

Hi, Regina!

Oil right: Lush No Drought dry shampoo, dusted along your roots, will soak up any unwanted oil and give your hair a little lift.

My hair gets gross and greasy halfway through the day, and I’d rather not have to take a second shower. Is there anything I can do about it?

Anna

Your shampoo and conditioner combo may be a little too rich for you, especially with our fluctuating weather and perpetual humidity interfering with what should be a fabulous hair day. But if you’re really unwilling to part with your products (believe me, I understand the female devotion to “Holy Grail” beauty products; when you find The One, it’s really The One), there are ways to soak up the excess grease.

Some supermodels say they used to dust a little baby powder along their scalp to absorb oil, but thankfully, they make products specifically for that purpose: dry shampoo. Lush No Drought dry shampoo smells great; a little bit dusted along your roots will soak up any unwanted oil and give your hair a little lift, keeping your locks looking fresh. Run your fingers through your hair upon application to disperse the product. Don’t worry, you won’t look like you’re portraying a lola in a school play, with white powder in your hair; the stuff blends in well, even with the darkest hair.

Also, consider using a clarifying shampoo once a week to get rid of any stubborn dirt or product residue that may be affecting the efficacy of your regular hair products. (Supermarkets with imported toiletries, like S&R and Pioneer Center, may have Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo.)

Regina

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Send e-mail to Lucy Torres-Gomez at ltg@pldtdsl.com. E-mail Rissa Trillo at stylesos_rissa@yahoo.comor follow her on Twitter @RissaMananquil. Send Regina Belmonte your questions at vivatregina.tumblr@gmail.com or tweet her @vivatregina.