Though I was blessed with relatively clear skin in high school, I’ve been cursed by the kind of hormone-sensitive, painful, even-less-attractive acne that often appears on the eve of one’s 30^th birthday. It’s under control now (thanks, Tazorac!), but the pigmented scars, like a visible emotional landscape of my high school years, remain.

I’ve tried liquid foundations, mineral powders, mousses…the works. Everything does the job to an extent, but the shadows of my ex-blemishes are still visible under all that paint. Plus, when you’re caking the stuff on in a panic, it tends to look rather less than natural.

Yesterday, however, B. and I went to the Benefit counter at Debenhams on a whim, where B. found a great concealer (“Erase Paste” #3) and I just happened to pick up “Hello Flawless!”, a powder foundation that can be worn sheer when used with a brush or applied with a sponge for more coverage. The cutie-pie counter-lady brushed it over half of my face and handed me a mirror. Like night and day I was, or perhaps past and present. The “Flawless” side was, indeed, flawless. It matched my skin perfectly (I’m pretty fair with a warm undertone, so I chose “‘Me, vain?’ Champagne”), and was somehow matte and luminous at the same time. It’s build-able, so if any more volcanos threaten to erupt, I’m confident that this will blot ‘em out.

The compact comes with a compartment below the powder for its little sponge and mini brush, and the retro packaging is always a kick. As one who shuns the sun, the SPF 15 is very welcome.

   

"Why, hello there!"

“Flawless”-ness can be yours for £24.50 at www.benefitcosmetics.co.uk.