I’m a huge fan of theatre makeup — for everyday use. (Yes, I really did just say that.) I’m not sure how many of you have done theatre before, but those of you who have surely remember days of gross, slimy, caked-on makeup!
- Absolutely incredible pigmentation and wear time. They’re made to stand out under and stand up to super-hot stage lighting, after all.
- Dirt-cheap prices. Pans of foundation for under $10? Sign us up!
- Many of the cream foundations (especially the older ones) are silicone-free. Which isn’t to say that they all are, though — check the ingredients label!
- It can be really, really hard to find, especially in smaller cities — which means that shade-matching for foundation is even more difficult than normal!
- You don’t get any snazzy packaging, but… we’ll make the compromise.
Ultralight in particular is great because it’s so, well, light! If you have a creme foundation that’s a little too light, mixing a bit of this in as a shade-lightener is a great alternative to buying a new shade altogether. And, for those about NC30 or below, it makes a great natural highlight when it’s (a) sheered out or (b) blended with a small amount of foundation for a truly customized highlight shade.
The entire highlight range: (if you’re interested in Ben Nye products, I highly recommend flipping through their online catalogue — it’s quite extensive!)
More things to note: these are the softest, creamiest creme blushers I’ve ever found, making them optimal for blending different shades together. Plus, they won’t dry out on you, and are an amazing $5 each! I kind of scare myself by saying this, but… I’d pick up a Ben Nye Creme Rouge over a Bobbi Brown Pot Rouge any day.
Another tip: try applying pigmented cream blushes with a duo-fibre stippling brush or a foundation brush for a flawless, seamless finish.
Check back later today for a review of Ben Nye’s foundation… which comes in over 50 different shades!
