My name is Lesley, I am a qualified Makeup Artist, and run Orchid Cosmetics - which was started because of my own adverse reactions to mass produced makeup available on the high street. For years having stayed away from wearing makeup unless absolutely necessary, now I can wear it every day.

I use mineral makeup in conjunction with moisturiser made from natural ingredients -not only does it help my skin, it aids the application of mineral makeup; covering the skin easily and quickly to form an even, smooth effect - even to my 40+ year old skin!

Loose mineral cosmetics are the most natural makeup available on the market.
They do not contain the cheap fillers found in those produced by large cosmetic companies.

It cannot be guaranteed that nobody will have an adverse reaction to any of these products,
but because they are natural there is less chance. Doing a test on a small patch of skin first is always adviseable.

My tips for using Orchid Cosmetics loose mineral makeup

I always moisturise my skin prior to applying natural mineral foundation powder. As an Aromatherapist I create creams that suit sensitive or dry skins and use these as a moisturizer. I only need to use a small amount, which is left on for 1-2 minutes before
applying my makeup.

The basis is to learn how to use this make-up and natural creams in a way that is suitable for your own skin.
Everyone's skin is individual, some quiet dry, some are more patchy. Oily skins do not absorb creams as easy as others.
All this has to be taken into consideration when applying a base moisturizing cream.

Applying the foundation - I find that using a cosmetic puff is the easiest way. There is no need to use the whole
of the cosmetic puff to apply the foundation, as this just wastes powder.
Just dip the edge of the puff into the jar of foundation and apply to one side of the face - buffing it to spread the
foundation powder smooth and evenly over the skin, blending in towards the neck. Repeat this to the other side of
the face and then to the central (nose/chin) and forehead sections.

Applying eyeshadow - if you find that your brush/applicator does not glide easily over the eyelid, just use your finger
to smooth the colour evenly (a clean finger!).
To acquire a richer more defined effect try mixing just a very small amount of powder with a drop of moisturizing
cream - this way you can use it as an eyeliner on the upper lid.
I advise only using natural creams, with ingredients that you know you do not react to. If in doubt, try some cream
on a small patch of skin and see if you develop any reaction. Usually an reaction will show within 48 hours.

If you get any product in your eye, immediately rinse out with water.

Applying blusher - dip the brush into the powder and dab first into the lid to get off excess powder. This saves
wasting powder and avoids applying too much at once.
The amount left on the brush should be adequate for applying to both cheeks. Apply to each cheek, then go back
and spread over the cheek until it is evenly distributed.

Please bare in mind that these are only my personal observations based on using these products.
You may find other ways that are more suitable for your own personal lifestyle.