WHATEVER situation you're in, good or bad, happy or sad, put on your best face.

That said, this best face is easier to assemble than you think.

But some prep work is necessary though, and that begins with choosing the right foundation.

But I am not a believer of sticking to a range.

Our skin has unique problems and properties, so one range will not satisfy.

Right now, I am using products from Kiehl's Rare Earth and Blue Herbal and I love the combination.

When you get the skin right, head to the many make-up counters around the island to get advice.

Absorb knowledge

Go to a make-up artist who looks like a version of what you are aspiring to be, and try to absorb whatever knowledge from her.

But be realistic.

If you are pale as tofu, don't imagine you are an African princess.

Master the art of concealment and enhancement and you'll be ready for whatever hits you.

Each month, a truckload of products hit the market, each promising miracles. Some of these will work and the rest will be forgotten by the next season.

So what's new? Here are some exciting ones:

1) The miracle of mineral foundation is well known: It covers and improves the condition of your skin.

Maybelline New York has joined the market with its first mineral foundation in the form of two-way cake called Pure Mineral Two-Way Cake Foundation.

Clinical trials of the product showed that after two months of use, most women felt an improvement in both skin smoothness and appearance of dry skin.

It's selling at $27.90 at Watsons, Guardian, SaSa, selected departmental stores and supermarkets.

2) The Lily Lolo Mineral Foundation ($29) gives you the appearance of air-brushed complexion.

It is free of chemicals and has a natural SPF. Most importantly, it is suitable for vegetarians and vegans.

Lily Lolo is a brand from the UK.

You can order this online at organicinc.com.sg.

3) The age spot is a stark reminder that age has come.

Turn to Elizabeth Arden for help. Its White Glove Extreme Brightening Spot Corrector ($88) helps even out imperfections and brightens the skin's appearance.

It should reduce the size and intensity of existing dark spots and discoloration; and is gentle enough for sensitive skin.

It's available at the end of the month at Elizabeth Arden in Takashimaya, Robinsons Raffles City, Robinsons CentrePoint, OG (People's Park and Albert Complex) and Metro Paragon.

4) Charity always makes spending easier to explain, so you may want to get the new Kiehl's Dermatologist Solutions Ultra Light Daily UV Defense SPF50 PA+++.

This will be launched next month, and if you get the limited edition pack (which contains JJ Lin's album, the product and a Kiehl's Tote Bag designed by JJ Lin), Kiehl's will donate all of the nett proceeds to Minds.

The pack sells for $95.

The product has long-lasting sunscreen protection, anti-oxidant and moisturising benefits.

This article was first published in The New Paper.