Dewy, matte face this season

The heat is on. Can’t bear the thought of my ultra-colourful stash — blue liner, tangerine lipgloss, purple eye shadow, and fuchsia nail polish — any more. Sure, I want make up, but it needs to be barely there, not in my face, if you get what I mean.

My makeup artist friend suggested I try the fresh-faced matte look, with a range of just-out products. Unlike last time, the new matte look is not flat or excessively dry. This season it is more about skin that is oil-free and clear, with soft, shimmering cheeks and creamy pastel lips. Just right for wearing at work or out shopping when too much colour can melt in sweat.

Excited at the thought of picking up new makeup — the beauty junkie that I am — I rushed to the nearest mall. This is what I picked:

L’Oreal True Match Minerals, Rs 850: At last a powder that works as a foundation and more. My skin was mattified in just one sweep. No layering needed. The mineral zinc oxide in the powder is a sunscreen, light enough to let the skin breathe.

Lakme Face Sheer, Rs 295: Pleasure to hold this little piece of beauty. The fluffy applicator gave just a hint of shimmer on my cheeks and temples. I dusted some of the highlighter on my collarbone for extra oomph.

Clinique Color Surge Eye Shadow Soft Shimmer in Desert Sun, Rs 1,000: This gorgeous sandy colour, practically no colour at all, is a summer must have. Soft and creamy to the touch. Left my lids smooth, with just a hint of tint.

Chanel Rouge Hydrabase Creme Lipstick in English Rose, Rs 1,200: Subtlest of pinks I have ever seen. Texture is creamy and not too shiny. My lips looked so full and soft, I picked it up at once.

I love my skin!

Available at select departmental stores, and beauty counters.