I’d never used a makeup base before this. That is, until I had a makeover done at Kanebo one day. They used a liquid over my face before applying the foundation. I asked what it was and they told me it was a makeup base.

According to the makeup artist, using a makeup base before applying your foundation and the rest of your makeup helps it last longer. It acts as a base, something for your foundation and powders to grab onto. It operates on the same principle as when you paint. Before applying the paint colour on the walls, painters will apply a coat of primer or base first. This helps the paint adhere better and keep the colours brighter. Well, makeup is like painting, so this principle has been translated across to the makeup world. In fact, some brands call their makeup bases “primer”. Same principle.

I could not afford the makeup base used on me though – Kanebo Revue at RM125 for a little bottle. So, I shopped around, and came upon Kanebo Media UV Makeup Base. This is by one of Kanebo’s drugstore brands – Media. The items in this line are cheap but from experience, pretty good. I will review some other items I have tried from this line soon.

Under the Kanebo Media brand, there is a UV makeup base which comes in a white tube with a blue or pink cover. No, its not for boys or girls, but blue is for the white transparent cream and pink is to add a pinkish tint to your skin.

I bought the blue one as I prefered something that did not mess with my skin tone. It comes in a 30ml tube and the cream is white. It applies smoothly without any colour on your skin. It also contains SPF15 and UV protection.

I found that after using it, my makeup did indeed last practically the whole day. I apply it in the morning and by evening when I get back, my powder foundation looks intact and my blush looks as fresh as when I first applied it in the morning. It seemed to work better with powder foundation as opposed to liquid foundation for me. My face did not feel greasy or oily at all throughout the day. In fact, if anything, it seemed to control the oilies for me. I didn’t even have to blot throughout the day when using this base! Bearing in mind I live in a tropical country which is hot and humid all the time, this is quite a feat.

This little tube retails for about RM27.90 for 30ml and is available at Guardian or Watsons (watch out for 15% discounts that happen from time to time). I don’t use much as it spreads very easily so you can rest assured this goes a very long way. Cheap with great results. What more can you ask for in a makeup base?

Pros: Cheap, works well, makeup lasts the whole day

Cons: None I have found

[rating:5/5]