Since discovering Bobbi Brown,
why this multitasker
should be in your
make-up bag
The ace of bases:
PROMOTED CONTENT
Is it a moisturiser? Is it a primer? It’s both – with one sold every 15 seconds,
Bobbi Brown’s bestseller has earned its status. Pro make-up artist Zara Findlay
tells Sophie Goddard why it’s a must-have
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kincare aficionados and the time-poor among us (so that’s all of us then) will already be familiar with bold claims of “hybrid skincare” and “multitasking make-up”, promising to deliver a multitude of skin-pleasing benefits in milliseconds. But while the majority fail to live up to the hype, there’s one clear exception to the rule – Bobbi Brown’s cult Vitamin Enriched Face Base. For those unfamiliar with its magic, it’s the bestselling moisturiser and primer in one, loved by customers, make-up artists and celebrities alike (if you know, you know!).
Designed to both moisturise and prep skin with its signature multivitamin blend and moisture-rich ingredients (98 per cent* of testers say skin looks rejuvenated after using it), there’s a good reason why 1 is sold every 15 seconds** worldwide. As Bobbi Brown senior pro make-up artist Zara Findlay – who keeps one in her kit at all times – explains, “Sometimes ‘cult’ products are adored by specific groups of people, but the Vitamin Enriched Face Base really is loved by everyone.
“As a make-up artist, I need products that truly do what they say and it’s rare to find a moisturiser and primer in one that honestly works. I tend to carry a very condensed kit for red carpet events and shoots and this is the one product I always have with me, no exceptions.”
s
my skincare regime has become a lot simpler
The Vitamin Enriched Face Base’s performance is down to its unique blend of powerhouse ingredients – a moisturising complex of hyaluronic acid, squalane and shea butter helps instantly hydrate, plump and prep skin for a fresh, healthy-looking glow, while a clever blend of Vitamins B, C and E replenishes and conditions skin with essential nourishment.
“Hyaluronic acid really is a superhero ingredient, instantly pumping moisture into the skin and reducing the look of dehydration, fine lines and wrinkles,” says Findlay as she applies the Vitamin Enriched Face Base to our model and ambassador Wendy, on the shoot. “The vitamin complex delivers instant, noticeable brightness, too – a real essential when we’re lacking sleep or skin appears dull. Sometimes I show clients how impactful it is by applying it to half the face initially, it’s fantastic.”
HYALURONIC ACID IS A SUPERHERO INGREDIENT
INSTANTLY
PUMPING MOISTURE
INTO THE SKIN
It’s also fast-working, foolproof to apply and ideal for all skin types – as those of us with hectic schedules, such as Wendy, will appreciate, Findlay explains. “You’ll notice the texture feels quite rich to the touch, but don’t let that put you off if you have oily skin, since its nourishing properties work well on all skin types. Because it works as both a moisturiser and primer and is easily absorbed, you can use it two ways – I’d suggest those with oily or combination skin types use it as their regular moisturiser, with that priming element already included. Those with dry skin which needs more moisture could use their regular moisturiser and add this as a primer on top, in areas make-up doesn’t typically ‘hold’ (like your T-zone for example) to really help lock in make-up.”
A little goes a long way, too. “Start by picking up a tiny pea-size amount with your ring finger – I like to work it in my hands first, then gently apply it to the skin. As it warms, it creates a beautifully creamy texture that glides on really smoothly, thanks to the shea butter base. The cushion-like texture means you won’t experience any annoying pilling or a white cast on the skin’s surface, either.”
what you
put on your skin as a canvas
for a smooth, fresh-looking
make-up
application
is key
And don’t overlook that invigorating grapefruit and geranium scent. “I really enjoyed the uplifting smell, which is so important when putting product on the face,” ambassador Wendy agreed. “It felt rich but lightweight – and incredibly luxurious.”
For those primarily invested in improving their make-up’s staying power, steel yourself for the impressive priming benefits, says Findlay: “What you put on to skin as a canvas for a smooth, fresh-looking make-up application is key and the Vitamin Enriched Face Base not only grips make-up on throughout the day but responds really well to layering too. If you notice make-up looks tired or blotchy after a long day, take a really small amount, warm it up between the fingers and press it on top of make-up to revive it, topping up your concealer or foundation if needed. Instant time-saver!”
*Consumer testing on 123 women after one week of product use. **Based on internal Bobbi Brown data, September 2021 to September 2022.
PHOTOGRAPHY: Benjamin Madgwick
MAKE-Up Artist: Zara Findlay using Bobbi Brown
STYLING: chris agius burke
Hair: Mark Francome
Nails: tinu bello
Model: Wendy at Mrs Robinson
The hero ingredients you need to know about
Vitamins B, C and E This holy trinity not only helps replenish and condition skin with essential nourishment, but also tackles common complaints like dullness (you’ve got vitamin C specifically to thank for that) and uneven skin tone. Their antioxidant properties also work to combat signs of ageing and offer gentle but much-needed protection for the delicate skin on your face.
Hyaluronic acid is the genius ingredient behind that instantly plumping and hydrating effect (it’s a humectant, which means it helpfully reduces moisture loss). As it’s able to retain up to 1,000 times its weight in water, even the most parched and dehydrated complexions will benefit (goodbye fine lines and wrinkles) and it works on all skin types too, so no need to panic about breakouts, greasiness or unwanted shine.
Squalane is technically an oil, but it’s seriously lightweight and non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores or prompt unwanted spots. Traditionally used to treat wounds or topical skin issues, it’s become a skincare staple thanks to its powerful antioxidant properties, which help even out skin tone and prevent skin damage. And because it’s a natural emollient, it’s also fantastic at instantly locking moisture into the skin and easing pesky dry areas.
Shea butter is another no-brainer for dry skin, thanks to all those wonderful fatty acids (it’s a powerhouse product for hair too – you’ll spot it in your favourite nourishing hair masks and conditioners). As well as hydrating skin, shea butter is a brilliantly calming and soothing ingredient (many swear by its healing properties on irritated, red or angry patches). It’s one of the reasons skin looks so plump, smooth and radiant after just a tiny application of Face Base.
Shop now at bobbibrown.co.uk
or head to your nearest store
for a free sample
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