Some people get a facial when they’re looking for a spot of relaxation but when I’m in the chair it’s all about learning.
I want to know all about the latest products, what I should — and shouldn’t — be using on my skin, as well as any tips for extending the life of my newly hydrated, congestion-free face, after treatment.
Enter renowned Melbourne-based dermal clinician James Vivian, who curated the cosmeceutical skincare line Viviology alongside Adore Beauty.
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I visited James earlier this week, and he made a suggestion about the makeup I’m using that gave me pause.
For skin that is prone to bumps and congestion like my own, James leans into mineral makeup to avoid suffocating the skin with thickly laid foundations and lotions.
I was using my beloved Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk, which doubles as an excellent concealer, but it probably wasn’t helping clear up the spots I was experiencing on my jawline.
So instead, I’ve switched things up and started using the BareMinerals Original Foundation Powder, which uses just five ingredients to give light coverage to the face.
But there are plenty more on the market worth your hard-earned cash.
Youngblood’s Loose Mineral Foundation ($84.95) is the number one best-selling product of the brand, combining both star-power ingredients with longevity to improve the look of your complexion overtime.
Meanwhile, the INNISFREE Matte Mineral Pressed Setting Powder ($18) has been compared to the holy grail Laura Mercier setting powder, but for a fraction of the price, to reduce oiliness on top of the skin.
For those on a budget, you can’t go past the Nude by Nature Mineral Cover Foundation ($42.95), which is available at Priceline, Chemist Warehouse and Adore Beauty.
If you haven’t considered mineral makeup before, because you were fearful of it being “too dry”, I recommend applying a dewy sunscreen underneath it, or a hydrating primer, to lay down a good foundation for your, well, foundation.
There are plenty of mineral blushes, bronzers and eyeshadows available to add colour and dimension to the face and you can always apply a glossier lip to combat the matte look.
So if you’re finding your makeup to be a little bit thick and your skin is freaking out as a result, perhaps think about the makeup you’re using on a day to day basis to “cover” it.
To book an appointment with James in Melbourne, head to his website here.