Makeup that’s good for your skin

It may have had green credentials, but until recently, natural make-up just didn't have the wow factor. Compared to mainstream brands, many natural products didn't cut the mustard in terms of performance, packaging or fragrance. And the variety of shades and textures available fell way short of what mainstream brands had to offer. But how times have changed. These days, top make-up artists are turning to natural products, using them on themselves as well as their clients.

‘Natural make-up has changed enormously over the years,' says legendary make-up artist Maggie Hunt, who offers make-up classes (visit www.maggiehunt.net), when she's not busy making up famous faces. ‘Lots of people are into organic food, vitamins and skincare in a big way, so it follows that make-up is the next step,' she says. And with increased demand has come greater choice. In fact, it seems a new range of natural make-up springs up every month.

But the main attraction for many of us will always be that natural make-up is not just kinder to your complexion, but can actually have skincare benefits. From the pioneers to the new kids on the block, here are a few of the best brands to look out for...

Best for sun protection: Susan Posnick

After recovering from skin cancer, make-up artist Susan Posnick starting developing cosmetics with sun protection that wouldn't feel heavy or melt in the heat, kicking off with the groundbreaking Colorfl o Foundation in 1999.

Best buy: Susan Posnick ColorEssential, £18 (www.skinbrands.co.uk, 020 8997 8541). Combining the hydration of a lip balm with the long-lasting benefits of a lipstick. All five shades have been designed to suit every skin tone, taking the guesswork out of choosing a colour that's right for you. Genius!

Best for skin soothing: Glominerals

Launched in the UK three years ago, the extensive selection of products combine pharmaceutical-grade ingredients, natural high-pigment minerals and the power of antioxidants. Choose between everything from creamy eyeshadows to glide-on lip crayons.

Best buy: GloRedness Relief Powder, £22 (0800 121 8116). Whether you suffer from broken capillaries, rosacea or the odd flush, this loose powder can help to calm skin and reduce redness. With a cocktail of skin-soothing ingredients, it fights the inflammation that can cause skin flare-ups.

Best for organic: Dr Hauschka

Not all natural products are organic, but everything in this range is. In fact, you'll find the same quality of organic ingredients in Dr Hauschka make-up as you will in its legendary skincare range.

Best buy: Dr Hauschka Translucent Bronze Concentrate, £25.53 for 30ml (www.drhauschka.co.uk, 01386 792642). Helps to even out skin tone and soften blemishes. Use it over your usual moisturiser for skin that looks sun-kissed and radiant.

Best for sustainable ingredients: Aubrey Organics

It looks like mineral make-up, but the main ingredient in this range is silk, which is rich in skin-nourishing amino acids. All the ingredients used - including wax from the carnauba palm and starches from tapioca and rice - are natural and sustainable.

Best buy: Aubrey Organics Powder Blush, £10.99 (0800 0851 697). The feather-light formulation feels great on your skin. The six shades are made with natural colourings such as beetroot and radish.

Best for handy packaging: Une

More stylish than your average natural make-up, this affordable new range teams fabulously wearable colours with chic and handy packaging. The push-open, snap-shut compacts all have mirrors, so on-the-go touch-ups couldn't be easier.

Best buy: Une Glimmer Eyes Shadow, £9.29 (from Boots and Superdrug). These creamy, sheer shadows glide onto lids, but stay in place all night. They also manage to add a youthful glow, without drawing attention to creases.