HD makeup

As the makeup artists in the film and TV industry have been trying to keep up with merciless HD, consumer cosmetic companies have been formulating what is known as ‘HD makeup’. The higher definition in our (now large-screen) TVs is less forgiving to actors’ flaws which has sparked new products and methods for the make up artists’ arsenal.

What makes a product HD? It is inevitable that some companies will jump on the HD bandwagon with not much difference to their product, as many did with mineral makeup, though there are a few brands to look out for. Most products contain light reflecting elements to blur blemishes, though each brand has done HD in a different way.

Cargo is an interesting company. It is a cosmetics company for TV and film makeup artists, but their products are also for women to use everyday. Their blu ray range includes a pressed powder that contains photochromatic pigments which adjust with the lighting, ultra-fine micronized minerals which fill-in fine lines and micronized light diffusers that reflect light randomly. They also have a blush/highlighter, bronzer, concealer, mattifier (a base), mascara and lip gloss.

The American brand Smashbox has a high definition Healthy FX Foundation, Liquid concealer and a Dual Finish Micro Powder SPF15. The foundation contains anti-aging elements, cell-energising Ribose and UVA/UVB SPF15 with a time-released moisturising system. The concealer also contains Ribose as well as soy, angelica extract and caffeine, and the all important light reflectors.

Dior’s Capture Totale High-Definition Serum contains optical correctors and liquid crystal pigments as well as anti-aging ingredients and an SPF 15.

We want to know what you think. Is there a better HD brand we haven’t mentioned? Do you think HD makeup is the next technological step or an expensive gimmick?

(Sources: smashbox, cargocosmetics)