Old Reliables: Foundations and Concealers

In the second instalment of 'Old Reliables', we take a look at a couple of my favourite foundations and concealers that I've continued to use on a regular basis over the years.

First up is MAC Face and Body Foundation

This is actually my everyday foundation and has been ever since I discovered it back in early 2009. Face and Body is a sheer, water-based foundation that is suitable for any skin type. Even though it's sheer, it's very buildable and you're easily able to get any coverage you want.
I've actually got the other women in my family hooked on this foundation after using it on them, it's especially beautiful on mature skin - really gives a gorgeous dewy look. Even on my own oily skin, I find this to be a really decent foundation. Recommend to all, this is always in my makeup kit.

Graftobian HD Warm Foundation Super Palette

If I want flawless skin, this is what I reach for. Originally bought for my professional makeup kit, I couldn't resist using it on myself too. Creams are soo versatile, I can't help but love them.
My favourite way to apply this is to mix it with Cetaphil Moisturising Lotion - and apply with a beauty blender sponge or a duo-fibre brush. When applied this way, I find that it gives you the 'my own skin - but better!' look, which is what I always go for. I absolutely despise the whole 'cake face' look, natural is always the way to go if you ask me.
This palette can also be used to contour and highlight, and it also makes an amazing concealer - this will cover anything! Highly recommend this for your professional kit, and the individual pots or smaller palettes for personal use.

Ben Nye Concealer Palette

Ben Nye is such a good quality, well priced brand. I've never been disappointed with any of their products yet, and wouldn't hesitate in recommending them. This especially, is one of my favourites. The colours in here blend well and are just the right consistency - not too creamy and not too dry. When followed with the Ben Nye Neutral Set - this concealer does NOT move.
I love it!

MAC Studio Sculpt Concealer

For like a year, this was the only concealer I used. Like the Ben Nye concealer it blends very easily, but it's much creamier. So setting is a MUST. A little goes a long way and it's quite easy to use too much - so start with a teeeny amount and apply more as needed. The thing I've noticed with this concealer is that the NW shades are much more pink-based than the other NW concealers that MAC make - so if you have a yellow undertone like me, the NW shades really can only be used on dark undereye circles. For blemishes and redness, you will need an NC shade.
My only real complaint is that I hate the packaging, glass jars are too heavy to carry around everywhere and I find that they do dry out quicker. Still the product itself, hasn't really failed me yet!

Thanks for viewing, stay tuned for the next instalment!
oxo