Thanks for all your tips Nic! I have never used a foundation brush but will keep my eye out for a Manicare one.

Smiles: I have used several Clinique foundations over about 15 years. The one I am using at present is Dewy Smooth Anti-Aging. It's for mature skins... moisturising but not too heavy... good coverage without looking like you have it caked on. I have two shades in Dewy Smooth, one for summer when I am a bit tanner... and a lighter one for winter. My stepmother recommended Clinique and as soon as I got my own job I started buying them... but have used them continuously since about 1994. To establish which shade is best for me I did a free counter consultation (without wearing any foundation). I do a refresher visit every few years. I also occasionally ask for sample pots of other foundation formulas (free) and give them to my 14yo DD who has just started using a bit of foundation this year.