[Photo/Caron]

When it comes to beauty, an even, luminous complexion is the holy grail. To get that flawless and radiant face you desire, a healthy diet, daily exercise and restful sleep all undoubtedly help, but you can also rely on the magic of powders.

Face powder is an old and trusted beauty ally. In ancient Japan, women and men alike used rice flour to even and lighten their skin tone. With the beginning of rice exportation in the 16th century, this habit rapidly spread to Europe. Louis XV’s most famous mistress, the Marquise de Pompadour, made it her must-have make-up – and she was soon followed by all the court ladies. Faces, hands, décolletage and wigs were generously dusted with white powder to get an aristocratic pale-carnation.

Today, face powders come in many shades, and women can choose among them as a function of their complexion and skin type. From luxurious loose powders to precious tiny compacts, French cosmetics and perfume house Caron has raised powder to an art form since 1904; the brand has been owned by the Alès Groupe since 1998. Sifted 100 times, composed of pure mineral ingredients, enriched with hydrating vegetal oils and delicately perfumed with Bulgarian rose, the brand’s powders are known for their lightweight formula.

"Caron is a story of transmission, expertise and passion," says the brand's press officer, Chantal Evrard. "Ladies sometimes fear that powder cracks and dries out the skin, but once they try this comfy formula on, they just love it and get addicted to its floral scent. I remember the day actress Raquel Welch asked us for help while she was working in Paris. She sent us a really sweet letter saying that she got her glow back thanks to Caron's powder."

Infused with a vintage French spirit, each powder's shade name is a blast from the past: Radieuse, Madame and Rose Bonne Mine. From translucent sheer powder to one that's more pigmented, each powder comes nested in a golden-studded case. "Created in 1939, the 'dog collar' box is Caron’s signature design," explains Evrard."Félicie Wanpouille, the founder of Caron, got this idea while she was petting her two pugs. Funnily enough, this style was later adopted by punks and rockers."

To top it all off, Caron offers stained powder puffs made of soft goose fluff and daintily adorned with a satin bow. "They are real treats, whether they are used for make-up or as a decoration,” says Evrard. “Glamour icon Dita Von Teese even asked us for a special red one."

Application tips

First, apply your day cream or foundation.

Then, plunge your powder puff into the loose powder and gently tap your face from the T-zone outwards.

Sweep away excess powder with a kabuki brush and enhance your cheeks with blusher.

Semi-loose powder is a must-have to make it through those hectic days with perfectly matte skin.

Keep your compact on hand to give an extra dusting to your face when necessary.