How to wear mineral make-up

Mineral cosmetics herald a new chapter in make-up - a look that is lighter and more natural. Here, Revlon's Bree Sharp gives us the low-down on the modern way of wearing make-up.

The latest trend in the cosmetic industry is mineral cosmetics, which have become vastly popular not just abroad but in Singapore as well. That's because, unlike traditional make-up that's made of chemicals, preservatives, fragrance and dyes, mineral cosmetics are natural and go well on almost all skin types.

Among the benefits of mineral cosmetics: They provide a smooth, flawless finish. They are perfect for sensitive and acne-prone skin. They are ideal for use post-cosmetic surgery. It is also said that mineral cosmetics don’t so much as cover up flaws but enhance your features. In other words, mineral cosmetics don't give you a fake, cakey look.

Revlon, one of the world's most iconic cosmetic brands, recently launched its line of mineral cosmetics in Singapore. We caught up with Bree Sharp, senior trainer for the company, to explain to us the advantages and benefits of using mineral cosmetics, as well as share tips on how to use make-up.

How do you make your make-up last 12 hours?

It is always important to prepare the "surface" you are applying makeup to, to ensure the longest wear possible.

For example, when applying eye-shadow it is best to use a concealer on the eyelid first, so the eye-shadow adheres to the skin better, making it last longer.

For lips, fill your entire lip in with lip-liner first (very lightly) so the lipstick grabs to the lip and lasts longer.

The best range I could recommend for guaranteed wear for up to 12 hours would be the Revlon ColorStay Collection, there are many products ranging from foundations to liners that will ensure your make-up stays in place.

Why did Revlon select minerals like mother of pearl and topaz for their makeup?

These mineral ingredients have been proven to brighten the skin, giving you a look that is fresh and radiant without being shiny.

How can you determine the colours of make-up for your skin?

For foundation, it is always important to try two different shades on the skin so you have some comparison. By applying these shades next to each other on the jaw-line you will see one shade disappear into the skin, while the other looks noticeable. The one that disappears is the correct shade for you.

For coloured make-up I believe that you should wear colours that make you feel confident and great when you wear them. You will always look good in a colour that makes you feel this way!

Is there a right way to apply make-up?

I don't think there are too many strict rules with make-up application anymore, which is great. There is one guideline to follow, which is blend, blend, blend! Make-up is all about illusion, highlighting the features you like and hiding the flaws.

By making sure your make-up has no "edges", you get a look that highlights your features rather than your makeup. So people will compliment the colour of your eyes, for example, rather than the colour of your eye-shadow!

Do you have any unique tips for Asian skin? What type of tips do you give to Caucasian women?

For Asian skin tone, foundation shade is very important. It's always good to use foundation and powders with a yellow undertone.

Although many Asian women believe they need to wear pink make-up shades to counteract their natural skin tones, this creates an unnatural and "grey-ish" look to the skin.

Using yellow-based products do not make Asian women look more yellow, but rather they produce a natural, flawless look that is modern and beautiful.

My advice to Caucasian women is the same, finding the right foundation can be the difference between a good make-up and a great make-up.

Using the same tone as your natural skin tone is the best advice I could give, whether it is pink or yellow.

- An article from 88DB Lifestyle.