The best way to apply mineral makeup

Many women, especially over the age of 40, mistakenly feel that mineral powder makeup isn't right for them. In the past, powders were heavy and tended to settle in fine lines and wrinkles making them more apparent.  Today's mineral powder makeup is finely milled, naturally hydrating, and blends into skin providing beautiful, flawless coverage for women of all ages -- if the right application techniques are used.

Here are a few tips that will ensure a flawless finish with mineral makeup:

1. Exfoliate beforehand. Gently exfoliate skin one to three times a week to remove dull, dry skin. This will smooth out skin’s texture and make applicaton easier. 
    
2. Moisturize regularly.  Keeping skin well hydrated is key to ensure any makeup goes on smooth and even. Apply moisturizer approximately 20 minutes before applying makeup to ensure it is completely absorbed and wont cause makeup to streak.
    
3. Use the right tools. Three brushes you need for the best application are:  a concealer brush, a round or flat-topped kabuki brush, and a finishing brush. Any makep artist will tell you that using the right tools really does make a difference in the end results. 
    
4. Less may be more. Some mineral makeup brands are highly pigmented, so you might need less than you think. Start by applying a dime-sized amount with a kabuki brush, then add more if needed. Once you get the coverage you need, use the finishing brush to blend.
    
5. Let the minerals “warm up” to your skin. The first few minutes after application, the mineral foundation color might not look like a match. By allowing the product to "sit" or "warm up" a few minutes, you may find it blends in and adapts to your skin tone. Mineral powder works with the skin's natural oils to transform into a smooth finish. 
    
6. Use a "patting method" to conceal. To get the best coverage on problem areas, use a concealer brush to press (not rub) a very small amount of the foundation directly where it is needed. This method works well for pimples, broken capillaries and sun spots.
    
7. Add moisturizer for flawless under-eye coverage. For a creamier consistency, dip a concealer brush in moisturizer, then dip the brush into the mineral powder foundation and blend on the back of hand before applying. This methods works particularly well for dark under-eye circles.

Where to find it:

For a complete line of mineral products (including foundations, cheek colors, eye products, and brushes), check out your local Tampa Bay Merle Norman Cosmetic Studio.  For a list of locations go to MerleNorman.com.