Tried and tested: Clarins powder foundation

Clarins Skin Illusion Loose Powder Foundation, €38

Clarin’s latest offering may be the answer.

While you might be understandably wary of powder foundations, this one is very finely milled and light-reflecting so the end finish is velvety but not cakey and skin is left matte but not dull.

Pared with a bit of concealer, I found this to be a great alternative on muggier days when a full face of foundation is the last thing you want.

And when you can’t be parted from your liquid foundation, a light dusting of this sets your make-up while also adding a little bit of extra coverage.

Be careful not to overdo it, especially on older faces, as it can make the skin look crepey.

The sleek silver packaging is nifty, with a retractable, unbelievably soft brush, magnetically fitting into the lid.

Only problem is it’s quite bulky — not one for popping in your bag.