When it comes to cosmetics, I’ve lost hours in the quest for oil-free Nirvana. It hasn’t been for nothing however. Oh no: I have finally found the best offerings on the market.
Read on for a blissful non-shiny holiday face or shine-free complexion, whatever the weather…
Make-up Forever
High Definition Invisible Cover Foundation
Don’t want your camera flash to bleach out your whole face and make you look like a two-toned wonder from Madame Tussauds? Invest. This baby prevents unsightly oil on your shnoz and does not reflect light as a result. This is my go-to for an event. It’s the bomb if you’re planning on hitting the marble tiles of Rome or the pebbles of Croatia. It’s light on application and sits without a budge, all day.
For best results Use a foundation brush for nice subtle coverage during the day. Need more? Use a stippling brush when the sun sets and apply little-by-little, from chin to forehead, to avoid cake-face. Shazam: You are more of a ride than when you started.
Buyit: €40.50 Store on Clarendon Street Dublin
Airflash
I am partial to Dior for some things that are worth the price tag. This choice is basically a face of make-up in a can and my all time favourite. Be aware that this is literally a can of spray but first-timers need not be nervous. I normally just hold my hand over the hair above my forehead but you may pop on a cloth hairband and begin. An even spray over the face with this stuff must be done swiftly and with confidence. Just practice on your hand if you’ve got the fear. It’s amazing stuff: no oil, no blending required but one to use on weekends unless you’re feeling flush.
For best results Keep calm and apply with confidence.
Buy it: €48. Beware you cannot bring aerosols in hand luggage through security so buy this in duty free before jetting off.
Laura Mercier
Silk Créme Oil-free Photo Edition Foundation: The name says it all but I will elaborate. I was a late convert to this foundation. The cake liner by Laura Mercier was lingering on my bathroom shelf for the novelty period of six months. They have opthalmically tested liners and cake liners that really do not irritate the eyes and face products are similar in that they do not irritate even the most sensitive skin. I am a glasses-wearer and previous victim of a severe cornea-tear and I have tried any amount of eye products over the years. Just so you know. Thank me when your foundation is not surreptitiously running down your face. This stuff comes in a holiday-handy tube.
For best results: A buffer brush is best to apply evenly and create a flawless, even finish.
Buy it: €48 Brown Thomas
Stila
This is a new cosmetic trial of mine. The texture is divine and the smell is almost non-existent. These factors, albeit minimal are off-putting for many. Buildable, natural-looking medium coverage in a little bottle, this is lighter than the others but perfect for days at the beach. Stila have such a funky range that it will prettify any AirBnB pad you may temporarily acquire as your summer home.
For best results This is too natural for me for the evening as I love full coverage but it evens the skin beautifully so I’m a huge fan of it for daywear. You won’t be disappointed. To be precice, this is one that works on all skin types. Use a stippling brush to apply. #love
Buy it: €35 Harvey Nichols, Dundrum Town Centre.
L’Oreal True Match
This is my go-to handy match for everyday or day to evening quick looks. I often quickly wipe it on with my fingers because, as the ad says in its American accent, it is ‘super-blendable’. They’re not lying.
Buy it: Available in most pharmacies and department stores
NOTE: These foundations are oil-free. This does not mean they are drying. They will not create that oily glaze and are good on skins prone to the occasional breakout. They work well on combination to oily types.
