KIT ESSENTIAL | Face Atelier Ultra Foundation Pro

During the Canadian Make-up Show back in November 2008, I scooped up FACE atelier’s set of foundations and they quickly moved to the top of my fave foundations list. I’ve always wanted to try FACE atelier ever since finding out they were the sponsor for Madonna’s Confessions tours. But ever the aspiring practical consumer and only being able to view their products online, I was ecstatic to finally get the chance to try before I buy! I wasn't disappointed. The silicone-based formula glides on like a dream and most importantly, makes skin look amazing – smooth and youthful! A little goes a long way with this product. You only need a tiny amount to cover the entire face, and heavier coverage is easy to build without being cakey.

I had one of those moments when I looked in the mirror the other day (well, month) and thought I can’t do my make-up the same way I was doing it in my teens (bye bye powdered foundation). Thankfully, with its smooth consistency (oh the joys of silicone!), FACE atelier Ultra Foundation Pro has taken years off of my skin. In terms of staying power, other than the usual lunchtime oil blot and powder touch-up, coverage stayed fresh-looking throughout the day.

I bought the set of foundations that includes the make-up artist friendly foundations, Zero+ (a dark toned foundation) and Zero- (a white foundation). Having the two of these on hand is perfect for any make-up artist, as it makes any colour combination possible. Zero+ and Zero- are also great for the everyday woman, as skin tone tends to vary between seasons (and often skin tones even vary on different areas of the face i.e. darker forehead)! Just add a drop of either Zero+ or Zero- to darken/lighten as desired, and voila – an instant customized shade that’s a perfect match! Katie at right has gorgeous fair skin, and the lightest foundation will still a tad too dark. I mixed in Zero- to lighten it and match her skin tone exactly.

If you haven’t heard of FACE atelier, it was founded by Calgary's own Debbie Bondar, who started the line after her own quest to find a great foundation left her something to be desired. The foundation that eventually developed is an industry favourite amongst make-up artists, including celebrity make-up artist Billy B. I never thought I would be one for silicone, but luckily using this product doesn’t involve surgery! Thanks to Debbie Bondar and FACE atelier, my own quest for the perfect everyday foundation has thankfully come to a stand still (well, for the time being)!

ARTIST TIP: When was the last time you evaluated your make-up routine? Don’t get stuck in a rut. Make-up is the perfect inexpensive way to update your look and try something new! Whether it be a foundation or a lipstick, it’s a new year - maybe it’s time you try something a little something different?