Charlotte's Magic Foundation

I've always had a love-hate relationship with foundations, and in fact, for many years, I purposely avoided them. However, moving to Australia 18 years ago, combined with a maturing complexion, somewhat forced my hand into considering them again. And let's be honest, foundations have truly come of age, and are nothing like the formulas of days gone by. Foundations of today do many jobs, from smoothing and balancing your complexion to providing SPF protection, and there are many types to choose from whether you like mineral powders or liquid. A new one to come to my attention hails from the Charlotte Tilbury cosmetics range, called Magic Foundation (rrp $65, from www.charlottetilbury.com/au). It's been taking the world by storm for many reasons. For a start there are 12 shades to choose from which suits everyone from pale to darker skinned women. The shade I selected to try was number 6, which is ideal for me for the warmer months when my face has some colour. The foundation comes in a lovely 30ml glass bottle with a rose gold lid and surprisingly, a brush for applying.

As for the formula, it is designed for full coverage with a demi-matte finish, and it's also long wearing which can be great if you're travelling and don't have time for frequent touch ups. What you have to be careful of, however, is not applying too much at first - a little goes a long way with this product. It's also a good idea to prep your skin really well first, especially if you tend to be dry, and maybe consider using a primer with it. Apply sparingly and blend well using your fingers or a sponge, and if you need a more significant coverage, build and layer. I tried it on a trip to Singapore, which as everyone knows has a brutal climate, and while it was too heavy for day wear, at night it made my skin look and feel great, and it survived the humidity. Boxes which this fab foundations ticks include that it's great for anyone who needs to mask acne or acne scarring, redness such as rosacea or a discoloured complexion such as melanoma, and for ageing skin it smooths spider veins and age spots. Key ingredients in the formula include hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, a mushroom extract which tightens pores and moisturises, and there's a broad spectrum SP15 protection factor as a bonus. Charlotte Tilbury has a winner with this lovely foundation and it's easy to see why women love it. If you're lucky enough to already have perfect skin it will simply enhance your complexion; if you have problem skin, it will go a long way towards making it look its best.