[lottie9]

I'm turning 40 before too long and I've decided that I need to get some really good foundation/ powder/ etc. I've been alternating between Clinique and Revlon, which are fine, but I think I need something finer quality. I have quite sensitive combination skin that tends to redness. I'm looking for something to give me that dewy polished look, not too heavy.

I've asked a few friends and been recommended MAC, Chantecaille and Becca.

I was thinking that I would go in to a department store and get a full show-and-tell done to buy the initial products, but ideally want something that is easily available online for a lower price.

Any recommendations for what brand, what to ask for or where to go?

[Ally'smum]

I would go to Mecca Cosmetica (or any other makeup shop) rather than a department store, you want someone who is not just selling one brand, unless you want to try all the brands in succession?

Maybe read a few beauty blogs as well for inspiration?

[Apageintime]

I too would avoid the department stores and instead try to find a private makeup artist to help you. The department stores will only try and sell you their brand, whereas a private consultant will try and find whats right for you.

I second MAC though, its great stuff.

[carriesshoes]

I'm a MAC girl, as they have such a great colour range for foundations and also a great range and variation in foundation products.

It's really a bit of trial and error. I still use Rimmel mascara and clarins beauty flash balm. So you need to check out a few counters and try things on. Don't make any decisions straight away - give it the day and see how it wears on you... does it melt off quickly, make you skin feel clogged the next day, give you a rash etc? These products can be costly, so you don't want to be buying things you don't like.

[LB_K]

I'm going to go completely against what other people are saying and say:

I would not choose Mac, Mac's clientele are younger girls in their 20s who like to wear heavier makeup. I was told by a Mac makeup artist that Mac is made for photographic makeup and this is why it is thicker (and why younger girls love it). I changed from Mac to Chanel and will never look back. Chanel has such a good coverage but is still so natural. I have heard Giorgio Armani (available in David Jones) is similar and have also heard good reports of NARS (which is sold in Mecca).

[Guest_Dinah_Harris_*]

I can't go past Napolean Perdis for foundation. I use the camera finish powder and it is flawless without looking heavy.
I'd also go to a place like Mecca Cosemetica and book in for a session. They can try different makeup and see which one you like the best.

[twinboys]

MAC is over priced and over rated makeup!
Check out Illamasqua ,Burberry or Chanel in a dept. Store.
Or try Inglot which are stand alone stores.
Do not get sucked into a primer - but if you are prone to oiliness do look at a mattifier.
Nars foundation is not great but their blushes and Laguna bronzer is great!
Walk straight past Napolean - rebranded cheap makeup that is sold to the unaware public!

This post has been edited by twinboys: 19/11/2012, 09:50 PM

[lizzzard]

I'll probably just be confusing things here, but my vote goes to Lancome for foundation - I find it provides great coverage with a natural, dewey finish.

[kristin5]

I turned 40 earlier this year, so am a similar age, and last year was diagnosed with Rosacea. Upon diagnosis, i changed my foundation from maybelline/revlon/covergirl to Clinique Almost Powder. It is light (but still gives good coverage) and easy to apply. I tried it in a department store first, but now buy online (Strawberrynet).

[bunny2]

The foundation I like at the moment is bobbi brown skin foundation. Light (but buildable) and natural.

I like Mecca Cosmetica too. Great products and staff. Prices aren't cheap though, same goes for bobbi brown make up. Great products though.

For a cheaper range I have heard that bourjois healthy mix foundation is good. I haven't personally tried it though. I have tried Revlon foundation and it is good. I personally couldn't get an exact colour match which is why I stopped using it but the formulation is good.