If you are new to mineral makeup, it may seem daunting at first. Take heart though, as while applying liquid makeup is a messy balance of coverage and colour, mineral makeup is far easier to use. Mineral powder makeup is also extremely versatile and can give you that natural and flawless look you are after.
We’ve put together a few key tips on applying mineral makeup – all it takes is a few steps and a little bit of practice!
Cleanse and well
We always advocate cleaning your face before using makeup, but in the case of mineral makeup, it becomes even more important to cleanse your face and do it well. Oily areas leftover from not cleaning well can make loose mineral powder stick unevenly. This will result in loose mineral powder sticking in patches – taking away from that flawless look you want!
For a squeaky clean and smooth skin try using an exfoliator 1-2 times a week that can remove dead skin and leave it super-smooth.

Moisturise
Always ensure you have moisturised your skin before using mineral makeup. Minerals attach to the surface, so if your skin is dry, your makeup will have a hard time sinking into your skin for that long-lasting coverage. Try and use a product that gives deep hydration without irritating your skin.
Always make sure that your moisturiser is well sunk into your skin before applying mineral foundation.
Apply Mineral Powder or Foundation
With mineral foundation it’s important to remember that a tiny bit can go a long way. Start by sprinkling a very small amount of powder onto your makeup jar lid. Let a brush pick up the mineral powder and tap it on the side to release any excess makeup. Now, apply the foundation powder to your face using gentle, circular strokes and ensure you get full coverage. Want more? Simply repeat and layer your mineral foundation until you get the coverage you desire.
Make sure to blend down the neck on your décolletage and around the often missed out ears. Can’t find the right shade? Try mixing a shade lighter and darker than your complexion to get that sweet spot. You’ll also be able to use these shades to create lighter concealer-like colours or darker tones for a tanned glow.

Liquid foundation
If you find it easier to work with liquid foundation, most leading mineral makeup brands now make them in a liquid form too. What’s more, a mineral liquid foundation can give you optimum coverage without that greasy look and last for several hours. Don’t own any liquid mineral makeup? Just add a bit of mineral powder to your favourite moisturiser and you’ll get similar benefits.
Other tricks and tips when using mineral foundation
Now that you know how to use mineral foundation, here are a few tips and tricks that can help you achieve the perfect look.
- When it starts looking cakey, start buffing. Mineral makeup is supposed to give you a natural, flawless complexion. When you feel the powder is lifting off your skin, simply buff and settle the makeup into your skin.
- Try using a sponge instead of a brush. Sometimes you need more coverage especially with skin that is prone to blemishes and acne. In such cases, using a sponge will give far more coverage over your kabuki brush.
- For a dewy finish try a mist. If you want to get a softer, dewy-skinned finish, try spritzing a face mist once done.
- Still on the fence about mineral foundation? Aside from its natural properties, mineral powder and foundation can make you look younger. Due to the light-reflective minerals and particles in the makeup, fine lines look less obvious leaving you with a healthy, youthful-looking glow!
Cosmetics Now carry a full range of mineral makeup including foundation, blush, bronzer, eyeshadow and even lipsticks from best-selling brands across the world. Shop our range of mineral powder and foundation here.