beauty

'This $25 moisturiser is my makeup artist's go-to primer for women over 40.'

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I'm lucky to sometimes get my makeup done for video shoots here at Mamamia.

As well as banking some great selfies wearing professional makeup, I also get to scope out the makeup artist's kit, take note of the latest products they use, and quiz them for tips and tricks.

Watch: What products would our beauty experts take on a desert island? Post continues below.


Video: Mamamia

I've been working with hair and makeup artist Jaclyn Nitko for a couple of years now, and every time she does my makeup, I've noticed she wipes off whatever moisturiser I had on (no offence taken) and applies something from a humble-looking little green tube before starting her wizardry.

Obviously, when she does my glam, it's flawless and lasts forever — she's a pro and very good at her job.

But I kept wondering why my skin not only looked more dewy but also felt more hydrated.

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side by side of women on set with a doll and makeup artist Yes, this was a scary doll, but look at that glow. And that is Jac in the middle. Image: Supplied.

How did the concealer not disappear and crack in every crevice like a dried-up lake?

So naturally, I asked her why and how.

"Skin naturally gets more dehydrated with age, so you need something that gives it life again," Jac explained.

Yes, Jac — you and I both know I'm in my forties, and moisture is literally evaporating from my face with each passing day.

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Some mornings I've sat in your chair tired and worse for wear, yet you still somehow shave years off me and give me an effortless, dewy glow.

She let me in on her secret base and how much it costs.

"I use Weleda Skin Food Light as a primer, especially for women over 40," she said.

That's me! And the kicker? It's just $25.

"Skin Food melts in beautifully — it hydrates without feeling greasy, smooths fine lines, and makes foundation glide instead of clinging. It's my go-to for that natural, healthy, rested glow."

Weleda Skin FoodThe magic Weleda Skin Food. Image: Supplied/

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Obviously, I have since panic purchased this. I also went down a rabbit hole researching it.

The key ingredients include:

  • Sunflower Seed Oil: Rich in fatty acids and vitamin E, helping lock in moisture and support skin barrier repair for supple, glowing skin.

  • Cocoa Seed Butter: Deeply nourishes and softens, creating a dewy appearance on even the driest skin.

  • Shea Butter: Offers intense moisturisation and promotes a luminous, healthy-looking complexion whilst soothing dryness.

  • Beeswax: A natural occlusive that locks in moisture, smoothing skin for a fresh look.

These ingredients work together to protect the skin's barrier, hydrate, nourish, and deliver an immediate radiant finish without leaving greasy residue.

It can be used as a facial moisturiser, after-sun care, and on hands, elbows, or other dry patches. So versatile!

Weleda Skin Food Light 75ml, $24.99.

weleda skin light food Image: Chemist Warehouse

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At $25, it's remarkably affordable compared to dedicated primers on the market.

What makes this even better value is that you're getting a full-sized moisturiser that doubles as a primer, rather than a small tube of single-purpose product.

For $25, it's honestly a no-brainer – especially when you consider you're getting professional makeup artist-approved results without the professional price tag.

For more tried and tested beauty recommendations, listen to the You Beauty podcast or watch You Beauty on YouTube.

At Mamamia, we independently curate and write about products we rave about in our group chats and think you should know about too. If you purchase a product we have recommended, we may earn a small commission.

Feature Image: Supplied.

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