What is a skin finisher and do I need one?

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Skin finishers are having a moment. Every beauty guru worth her YouTube advertising is declaring their allegiance, and every makeup company is promoting their new shiny version of it.

I’m talking about “skin finishers”. And I’m curious about whether you and I really need one in our beauty bag.

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In simple terms, a skin finisher is a setting spray for your makeup. They can be used before applying your foundation for an extra boost of hydration, or they can be used after you’ve finished your makeup to set everything in place. Oh, and they keep it in place so that you’re still looking fine come 5pm.

They’re also great for refreshing your loo0k throughout the day, adding moisture (especially if you work in air-conditioning) and even mixing with your eyeshadow to create a more dramatic look. (Post continues after gallery.)

Back in the day, makeup artists, stage actors and film and TV crew would use plain old hairspray to make sure makeup stayed where it was meant to. Sure, it locked in foundation and prevented melting and transfer onto clothes but it also clogged pores like no one’s business and made it very hard for skin to breathe. Not something you want to be doing on a daily basis.

The new formulations of skin finishers are a combination of skincare and makeup, which means they're not going to be doing any harm to your pores. In fact, with added antioxidants and vitamins, they're pretty good for you.

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There are formulations to suit all kinds of skin concerns. Those designed for dry skin add back moisture and plump up the skin, whereas formulations designed for oily skin help mattify and prevent foundation from sliding off.

I wouldn't say it's an absolutely essential item that you can't live without but if you find your skin becomes tight and uncomfortable throughout the day, or are sick of your foundation not lasting the distance, skin finishers could be the answer.

I've been using one for a while now and I love it's ability to take away the overdone 'powdered donut' look that some products can give.

If you're looking for some cute factor to add to your day, check out our gallery of celeb mums getting gorgeous with their little ones.

Do you use a skin finisher? Which one is your favourite?