If you’re in the market for new makeup (us, always) but feel overwhelmed at the thought of perusing the cosmetics aisle, you’re not alone.
Before you hit ‘add to cart’, either literally or virtually, ask yourself these five questions to ensure that foundation/eyeliner/brow gel is a product that lines up with both your values and your skin’s needs.
1. Is It Suitable Acne-Prone Skin?
Let’s be real: there are a lot of foundations out there (both liquid and powder) that can cause breakouts down the track. If your skin is acne-prone, look for makeup that is non-comedogenic—this ensures that the formula is devoid of any ingredients that could clog your pores.
Nude by Nature Natural Mineral Cover is a loose mineral powder foundation with a buildable satin finish that ranges from sheer to full coverage. Importantly, the non-comedogenic (!!!) formula has been tested by Dermatologists and is suitable for all skin types, including those with sensitive skin and skin prone to breakouts and pigmentation. Natural Mineral Cover treats skin as it covers imperfections, thanks to jojoba esters (to nourish) and kaolin clay (to absorb excess oil). This much-loved formula was named ‘Best Foundation’ by the 2020 Beautyheaven Best in Beauty awards and recently debut a chic makeover (the rose gold jar will sit pretty on your bathroom shelf).
Nude by Nature Natural Mineral Cover, $39.95; eight shades available at Priceline, Big W, Chemist Warehouse, Myer, Target and selected Pharmacies, a further 12 shades available at NudebyNature.com.au.
2. Am I Really Going To Use This?
Do you have 50 makeup products in your kit with only five on high rotation? There’s no point buying another product that will sit unused—it’s bad for your storage situation and the environment. So before you add more makeup into the mix, ask yourself: do I really need this?
While trends come and go, there are some makeup mainstays that will never go out of fashion, including foundation, mascara and nude lipstick. If you plan to stray from the basics, opt for multi-tasking products that will work hard for you.
MECCA COSMETICA Hydra Cheek Tint and Illuminating Balm Duo, $45 at Mecca.
3. Will It Suit My Skin Tone?
During these COVID times, you may be hesitant to head in store for your next purchase. No matter. Findnation.com is an online comparison platform that will match your shade virtually. Simply input your current foundation and corresponding shade, and it will find a shade match by other brands, including The Ordinary, Too Faced and CoverGirl.
4. Is It Cruelty-Free?
In 2021, cruelty-free beauty is a non-negotiable. Fortunately for us (and our furry friends), a great deal of brands—including Kora Organics, Nude by Nature and Aveda—create top quality, high performance products that aren’t tested on animals. Look for products that carry the PETA or Leaping Bunny logos, as these global organisations hold brands accountable to their cruelty-free claims.
Kora Organics Noni Glow Face Oil, $83 at Sephora.
5. Are There Any Questionable Ingredients In The Formula?
Ingredients can be questionable for a number of reasons, including ethics, overall health and skin sensitivity.
Alcohol and fragrance can be triggering for sensitive skin types, even if the fragrance doesn’t have a strong first impression. Meanwhile, talc has also become a cause for concern and further research, along with parabens, PEGs, phthalates, silicones and sulphates.
If you are concerned about any of these ingredients, there are plenty of skincare, makeup and haircare brands that err on the side of caution.
Brought to you by Nude by Nature
