How to: Use Crème-to-Powder Formulations

Wed, 11 July 2012 9:29AM

Apart from some epic fails and minor makeup misdemeanours, I’ve been able to work out why some textures work on me, and why some don’t.

However, a cosmetic quandary that still stands is the crème-to-powder phenomenon.

I have dry skin, so to me, the ‘P’ word is a dirty word. I want crème and hydration, but I also want hold.

I posed some questions to the experts, and here is how they advise one approaches the crème-to-powder phenomenon. Dry skin or not.

Dry won’t dry out: Ensuring you’ve adequately hydrated your skin prior to application of a crème-to-powder foundation, your skin won’t feel drier for having a powder finish. Many of us avoid powders as they feel crepey on the skin, and suck up moisture, but these formulations contain less talc, so they are not as dehydrating as traditional face powders. Opt for a mineral product to avoid dryness altogether.

Sit. Stay!: Your eyeshadow, foundation, lip colour and cheek cremes will stay put all day if they are of the c-2-p variety. That way, you can get the lush pigment of a creamy consistency, but the powder finish will act as the disciplinarian, meaning it won’t budge.

Build it up: Crème to powder formulations are to be used in layers. Start with one layer and then let that settle, before applying another. Or just use a single layer if you want sheer coverage.

Laying the foundations: “Foundation is best applied to the skin with a sponge or a liquid foundation brush,” says Lisa Williams, Director at Youngblood Australia. “You can even apply with our flat top kabuki brush, and buff in circles in exactly the same way you would with our loose foundation (note: that’s how I apply mine!). This is definitely the way to achieve the most hygienic and flawless application. If you’re applying in layers, make sure to leave a short amount of time for foundation to set before applying the next layer.”

Matchy-match: When switching from a traditional liquid foundation to a c-2-p formulation, you may have to reassess your concealer too. Do this by allowing foundation to settle into the complexion first, and then dot some concealer on your jaw line. With a handheld mirror, step into daylight and if the concealer has disappeared, it suits this new formulation. If it hasn’t, then you may have to revisit the cosmetic counter for one that does.
Quick tip: stick with the same brand as they may also offer crème-to-powder concealers with similar formulations, which will save you a lot of guesswork. Clever clogs they are!

Don’t over-do what’s been done for you: Crème-to-powder foundation, eye shadow or cheek colour eliminates the need to powder over the finished look. The powder is built-in to give just enough hold, whilst allowing natural hydration and sheen to shine through.

Don’t let it disappear: If you are on the opposite end of the complexion spectrum, and have really oily skin, it may be wise to pat out any excess shine prior to applying a c-2-p formulation so that the crème consistency doesn’t sink in too fast, leaving a film of powder on the surface. With any good brand, this shouldn’t happen, but pH should be balanced just in case so that the product has time to actually set into a powder consistency.

So Primpettes, have you tried crème-to-powder formulations?

Do they work for you?

ecb x

Posted by: ecb

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Tags: creme foundation, featured how to, foundation, makeup tips, matte foundation, powder foundation, youngblood cosmetics