Face Powder

Face powder is the make-up artist’s best friend, as it can make your skin look really wonderful and is very versatile in its uses. It gives the skin a glow as well as makes it smooth. It has a lasting effort in comparison to foundations and moisturizers. It can be used as a finishing layer in makeup application, or it can be applied directly on bare skin without the accompanying foundation layers.

You need two types of powder, a loose form at home, and a powder compact for your handbag. Whether you choose loose or pressed really depends on your skin type and the look that you desire. If you are a natural girl who likes a gentle finish, consider loose powder. If you are more active and sporty, the matte look of pressed powder may be ideal for you.

1. Loose Powder: This gives the best and longest-lasting finish and is the choice of professional make-up artists and models. Powder particles are finer and tend to set makeup better than pressed powder. The best way to apply loose powder is to dust it lightly on to your skin using a large, soft powder brush. Then lightly brush over your face again to dust off the excess. This powder looks natural on the skin, and is good for home application. Many women like using loose powder because it gives the skin a flawless effect.
2. Pressed Powder: Pressed powder comes in cake form, providing better and longer-lasting coverage. Compacts containing pressed powder are ideal for carrying in your make-up bag as they are very quick to use and lightweight. Most come with their own application sponges, but you will find you get a better result if you apply them with a brush. Look for brushes with retraceable heads to carry in your make-up bag. If you do use the sponge, use a light touch and wash it regularly, or you will transfer the oils in your skin on to the powder and get a build-up. Pressed powder is ideal for those who are always busy and don’t have much time to groom themselves. Unlike most loose powders, pressed powder is extremely portable and gives the skin a matte finish. It also usually contains a mirror inside of its compact, which is ideal for those with stubborn marks that need touch ups often throughout the day.

3. Powder Shade: Don’t make the mistake of thinking that one shade of powder suits all. Instead, choose one that closely matches your skin-tone for a natural effect. Do this by dusting a little on your jawline, in the same way as you would with foundation. Take time to experiment so you choose the shade that best suits your colouring. Careful application of the right powder as the final finishing and fixing touch should give your skin a soft, glowing and natural feel.
4. Translucent Powder: Translucent powder is unpigmented, sheer powder used mainly to control oily zones. Translucent powder can be pressed or loose.
5. Tinted Powder: Tinted powder is pigmented and is usually worn without foundation. Tinted powder can be pressed or loose powder.

Some face powders will change color after application. If possible, experiment with different shades to find the right shade. Many makeup professionals recommend using a combination of loose and pressed powder for a more flawless look. The ingredients in face powders vary depending on the desired effect on the skin. Here are the most common ingredients used in formulating pressed and loose face powders : Talc, Mica, Magnesium stearate, Kaolin, Calcium carbonate, Inorganic and organic pigments, Perfumes.

There are different reasons for including face powders in one’s makeup routine. The type and brand of powder will depend on the desired cosmetic effect. Some face powders are formulated to address different conditions.

1. Shine control. Typically, loose and pressed powder is used to achieve a matte or velvet-like finish, minimizing shine and oiliness in the process. Loose powder is recommended for better shine control because the fine texture is more oil and moisture absorbent.
2. UV light protection. The presence of zinc oxide or titanium dioxide will provide some UV protection.
3. Improve skin tone. The right shade of face powder can brighten the skin or produce a freshly tanned effect.
4. Cover up imperfections. Pressed powder provides better coverage for skin blemishes and imperfections as this type of powder clings to the skin and applications last longer.
5. Improve skin condition. Most face powders are enriched with nutrients, emollients, peptides, and antioxidants that rejuvenate the skin.

When choosing face powder, consider the natural and obvious skin complexion as well as the undertones. Undertones can be pink, yellow, and red. Pick a face powder that matches the skin complexion closely, but pay attention to distinctive undertones. All face powders, including those labeled as translucent, will have some color to them.

Although there are numerous face powder on the market that promise to give you smooth and flawless face, they can be expensive and some ingredients even do not suitable for your skin. Luckily, your skin can become smooth and clear with the help of some readily available natural ingredients.Here are some home remedies to get smooth skin.
1. Water
One of the most important things you can do for smooth and glowing skin is drink plenty of water. Water helps the body flush out toxins and waste. Avoid sugary drinks, alcohol and carbonated drinks. Also try to eat fruits and vegetables that are high in water content. Washing your face at least twice a day with water will also help improve your skin’s health and appearance.
2. Lemon Juice
Lemon juice can be used to cleanse your skin, lighten spots and scars, as well as soften and smooth it. Lemon is a great natural cleanser for people who have oily skin. To lighten dark spots and acne marks, you can use freshly squeezed lemon juice and apply it to your entire face and neck. Leave it on for 10 minutes and then wash the area with lukewarm water. For soft, smooth skin, mix lemon juice and egg whites and heat the mixture on low flame for a few seconds. Allow it to cool and then apply it to your face. Leave it on for 10 minutes and then rinse with warm water.
3. Tomatoes
Fresh tomato is an excellent natural skin toner, and tomato paste can help treat pimples. To make your skin soft and smooth, mash some fresh tomatoes in a blender or grinder. Apply the mashed tomato to your face. Leave it on for about five minutes and then wash it off with water. Daily use can help reduce the size of your pores and result in smoother, glowing skin. You can also use tomato paste to heal pimples. Apply it to the affected area and leave it on for an hour, then wash with water.
4. Papaya
Papaya contains a natural enzyme known as papain that has antibacterial and wound-healing abilities. The enzyme also aids in removing dead, damaged skin. To use papaya as a skin toner, mash a few pieces of ripe papaya and apply it as a facial mask. Keep it on for about 15 minutes and then wash it off with lukewarm water. Regular application of papaya juice helps reduce freckles or brown spots due to sun exposure. For extra skin lightening effect, add a slice of lemon to the papaya juice.
5. Sugar Mix
Sugar is said to work as an exfoliation for the skin and thus is great to cleanse your skin. Take equal quantities of white and brown sugar. Combine them and mix by adding water. Apply it on your face and gently rub for a minute or two and rinse off with lukewarm water. You can substitute water with honey for more effectiveness.
6. Potato
Potato is a natural bleach and a great way to get rid of dark skin spots, tan, sun burn, scars, etc. You can either use potato juice or rub a piece of raw potato on your face. Whichever way you choose, you will surely be able to achieve fair and flawless skin. You should try this potato treatment everyday for desired results.
7. Banana
Bananas are high sources of Vitamins A and E, which are said to be essential components for a healthy skin. These vitamins help to tone down redness of the skin. To make this face pack, you need one mashed banana, four teaspoons honey, half cup heavy cream, four teaspoons flour and three teaspoons water. Combine all the ingredients except water. Once they are mixed, add water and work it into a thick consistency. Apply it on your face and wash off after 10-15 minutes. While the banana will help to give a healthy glow to your face, the cream will make it soft and supple.

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