Dear Ms. Mythbuster Beauty,

Cecily from “My Chaos My Bliss” just asked me a great question. I started answering it, but it got really long. Jen from “Lords of the Manor” also asked me a question about Tinted Moisturizers recently and I have been meaning to answer her as well.

Cecily R said…

So, what’s your opinion about foundation anyway? A Mary Kay rep once told me that not wearing it is like not painting a barn to protect it from weather (isn’t that a horrible comparison?). I rarely wear it and when I wear it often I usually end up breaking out. I know this doesn’t really have anything to do with your post, but I was curious.

Ms. Mythbuster Beauty says…

That is a horrible comparison! Sounds like something a bad salesperson would say to sell their product.  I have nothing against Mary Kay, just be aware that their #1 main objective is to sell you something.

If your skin tone is even you don’t feel like you need to wear foundation, don’t! I was just talking to Mo Mommy about this, she has fabulous skin and wanted to know what foundation I would recommend to her.

Until recently, I never wore foundation either. You lucky women! You might consider wearing a good oil-free moisturizer or tinted moisturizer with an SPF. A primer is also a great natural alternative to foundation. I also would suggest to use a bit of concealer under your eyes and to spot cover any blemishes or red spots. I usually set my foundation/ makeup with a bit of translucent powder, but that might not be necessary if you aren’t oily. Blotting papers are a great way to touch up without adding more powder throughout the day.  (I have read that toilet seat covers are made of the same material used to create blotting papers!)

Jen’s question is of a similar nature:

Hey Jen, what is the best kind of tinted moisturizer? For those of us who have never taken the plunge, what do we need to know about it before we try it?

Ms. Mythbuster Beauty’s advice:

First ask yourself, what are my objectives in wearing a foundation?

If your answer is coverage, a tinted moisturizer is probably not for you. Tinted Moisturizers can offer some coverage, but are very sheer and moisturizing. They are particularly nice if you already have great skin and want to even your tone a bit. And they feel and look so natural!

I absolutely love Tarte’s Smooth Operator with SPF 20, and every time I use it cannot help but sing to myself “Smooth Operator” from Sade!

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I also would highly recommend Suki’s Tinted Active Moisturizer, and Model Co’s 3-in-1 Foundation. The concealer that comes with the Model Co foundation is simply divine, the creamiest and dreamiest concealer I have ever used.

I have heard wonderful things, but have not tried: The Balm’s BalmShelter, Boot’s No 7 Tinted Moisturizer (sold at Target), and Caudalie’s Tinted Moisturizer.

Another great thing about Tinted Moisturizers is that it is all in one step. Moisturizes, evens tone, gives your skin a glow, and usually provides an SPF. Most are oil-free and will not irritate sensitive skins or trigger breakouts. Believe me, I have the most sensitive skin on the planet!

This was fun! Keep your questions coming and let me know if any of this advice works for you.