Matte is Back! 5 Steps to a Fresh Matte Face

When MAC Studio Fix hit the market in the ’80’s, I nearly lost my mind. No pores, no imperfections– as a matter of fact, no skin was even showing.   I loved that perfectly finished face.  I emulated my makeup muse Sade daily — pony tail, matte face, dark brows and red lips.  Needless to say, I ditched that look in the 90’s, and  dove head long in to the dewy, luminous look.  (I’m old — I need to make up for estrogen loss!)

Matte Today is fresh not dry. Skin actually shows, but minus the shine.  A touch of color give your matte face life and vibrancy.  Leave your shimmer and shine for the club and the sparkle and glitter for the kids.  Try a new take on matte makeup.  Check out these steps for the hottest look in Matte.

1.  Prep

Philosophy never let them see you shine primer

Never Let Them See You Shine: dramatically reduces oil and shine while providing a velvet matte finish, instantly minimized pores and a provides a shine-free canvas.  Can also be mixed with your favorite foundation makeup for instant oil and shine control.

2.  Even Skin Tone

Cover FX Powder FX PressedMineral Foundation SPF 10

Oil absorbing, anti-shine, mineral-rich, matte finish foundation with sheer to moderate coverage in 17 global shades.  Perfect for oily, normal/combination  and ideal for acneic/sensitive skin.

NARS Sheer Matte Foundation

Minimizes visible discoloration, brightens and clarifies overall skin tone. Absorbs oil and controls shine.  Dermatologist tested. Non-comedogenic. Fragrance Free.

3.  Add color

Rock & Republic Contrived Pressed Blush (matte finish)

Use a light hand for a natural flush.  Rock & Republic Contrived Blush in Bedroom or Foreplay.   (not the colors pictured)

L’Oreal Quad Wood Rose — Matte

Keep eyes soft and neutral.  Try taupes, browns and greys.  Groom eyebrows, filling in if necessary.  Apply mascara.

For lips — avoid high shine lipgloss.  Instead opt for a silky finish lipstick or pencil.  Try Smashbox Double-Take Lip Color.

Smashbox Doubletake Lip Color lines and defines lips and delivers rich, lustrous color for a fresh, feminine look. The longwearing formula is packed with vitamins C and E to provide antioxidant protection, caffeine to keep lips looking young, and wheat glycerines to moisturize.

5.  Touch-up

Laura Geller Matte Maker

For finishing touches or banishing mid-day shine, this “blotting” powder absorbs oil on all shades of skin from the lightest to darkest, while imparting a velvety matte finish.  Will not cake up or clog pores.