If you don’t have flawless skin and you suffer from marks, spots and uneven skin tone, perfection is just one tube, bottle or powder brush away. The latest from primers to concealers are so cleverly formulated that they don’t just cover up imperfections, they treat them!

PRIMER
Applied after moisturiser to illuminate the skin, even out skin tone and fill in wrinkles.
Products We Recommend
Clarins Instant Light Radiance Boosting Complexion Base (R345); L’Oréal New Nude Magique Blur Cream Instant Flawless Perfector (R199.95); or Optiphi Set the Canvas (R238.80)

BB AND CC CREAMS
These balms have taken the beauty world by storm in recent years. The power lies in its multipurpose applications – some have up to eight functions, the main purpose being that it makes skin appear flawless and evens out skin tone, especially CC (Colour Correcting) products.
Products We Recommend
Guerlain Super Aqua-Serum BB Hydra Beauty Balm (R995); Bourjois 123 Perfect C Cream SPF15 (R159.95); Essence All-in-One CC Cream SPF30 (R76.95)

FOUNDATIONS
These products do more nowadays than create the perfect canvas for the rest of your make-up. They’re packed with ingredients that can help improve your skin. The older you get the less matte your foundation should be; a moist, dewy appearance and a bit of a glow (not shine!), is flattering and appears youthful.
Products We Recommend
Chanel Vitalumiere Loose Powder Foundation (R1 010); Clarins Skin Illusion Natural Radiance Foundation SPF10 (R400); L’Oréal Infallible Stay Fresh Foundation 24H (R209.95)

CONCEALER
A concealer does what your foundation can’t do: Covers or camouflages impurities, marks and dark rings – don’t try to do this with foundation. The trick is to apply the concealer with a fine brush, then blend in gently with your fingertips – dot and press, do not sweep.
Products We Recommend
YSL Touche Éclat Radiant Touch (R570); Physicians Formula Gentle Cover Concealer Stick (R139)

POWDER
Some women prefer compact powder, others like the loose, translucent varieties. The purpose of powder is to set your make-up and make it last longer. It also prevents shine, especially if you have oily skin, and it can improve the appearance of enlarged pores. Apply it very lightly, with a large brush, over your chin, nose and forehead.
Products We Recommend
Sensai Cellular Performance Pressed Powder Anti-Ageing Foundation (R1 300); Clarins Mineral Loose Powder (R425); Wet n Wild Coverall Pressed Powder (R54.95).

Words: Elsa Kruger, Ideas
Images: Ed O’Riley, Ideas