Mineral makeup tricks

I love mineral makeup. It provides great coverage, it's natural and it's a truly a versatile makeup product. Most of the good quality mineral products are also formulated without parabens, sulfates, synthetic fragrances, petro-chemicals, dyes, oils and phlalates so they are perfect for those who are trying to rid their life of toxins or who have sensitive skin like myself.

From eye makeup, to blush to foundations, I've tried quite a few and one of my all-time favourites is still the i.d. bareMinerals SPF 15 Foundation available at Sephora. I'm giving away a huge beauty secret here. As long as my skin is not super dry, I find it does a great job evening out my skin tone without overdoing it. If I ever get compliments I obviously attribute it to my artful makeup application because it sure doesn't look so fresh without it.

But I've spoken with many a beauty editor and we all have a similar problem. How do you prevent something so powdery and delightful from making a muddy mess of your sink, shelves and pretty handbags? Excellent question and it had taken me a long time to find the answer. Behold, the portable carrying case for mineral makeup.

Finally, an alternative to lugging around tons of equipment for touchups.

It's refillable, has a compact buki brush, and a mirror for instant touch ups. I haven't bought it yet but I'm definitely going to.

I.d. bareminerals case available at Sephora or Sephora.com, $35.

For another portable mineral powder solution, Physicians Formula offers their mineral makeup in a quick on-the-go stick called the Mineral Wear Talc-Free Perfecting Mineral Concentrate. The moment I saw this product I leapt at it, begging them to tell me when it was available in stores. It provides coverage like a foundation but also works like a concealer and matte powder.

Plus, it comes in 4 easy shades all for $16, available at drug and mass-market retailers across Canada.

How's that for a makeup solution for busy gals on the go?

-Kate Daley