Because if you recall the days of heavily-powdered faces and the matt complexions of the ’90s, you’ll understand my apprehension. When I was growing up in the late noughties, two-way cakes were all the rage for being a cheap, easy and quick fix – but, in my opinion, with dire results. You either ended up looking too brown or grey – both casualties of mismatched skin tones and long-wearing oxidation.

So, who’s buying powder foundation, or two-way cakes, for that matter?

Ipsa released a powder foundation this year to address all those issues. I must admit that I tried it as a sceptic, then was impressed by its airiness – you can even contour your face with the darker shade. Three-in-one – that’s a new take on the two-way cake.

I quizzed some make-up experts, and one of my favourite make-up artists from Malaysia, KF Bong, said: “When it comes to foundations it is all about the final finish – and about the kind of texture and coverage you want, whether matt, glowing, sheer, medium coverage, or full coverage.

“If you are a beginner I would suggest you pick a powder foundation; if you are more seasoned then you could definitely go for liquid foundation for better coverage, and finish the look with powder foundation to set your make-up in place.”

Hourglass’ Marc Reagan, director of global education, artistry and events, also echoes Bong’s sentiments: “It is all about the foundation that works for your skin type and individual concerns and preferences, and what finish you would like to achieve with your complexion or make-up – that would determine which foundation will suit your needs.

“Hourglass has options for both, with Vanish Seamless Finish Liquid Foundation for an easy instant full coverage and Immaculate Liquid Powder Foundation that ensures all-day, shine-free wear.”

But should two-way cakes be dropped completely?

Reagan says: “I am an advocate for oil-absorbing foundations if that is the primary concern of the person wearing it, however, I do believe that matt or powder foundations should be reserved for oily skin types and those who struggle with extreme shine through the day.

Is this possible to achieve with liquid foundation topped with a dusting of loose or pressed powder?

Reagan says: “The Hourglass Immaculate Liquid Powder Foundation works really well for humid climates as it maintains a shine-free finish. That said, if you’re looking to use your existing liquid foundation and have concerns about longevity, then the only thing you need to incorporate into your routine is Veil Mineral Primer – it extends the wear of your make-up, repels water and works on any skin type.”

Bong thinks that there is a good reason why two-way cakes are deemed classic beauty staples. “Because the product is built with a combination of wet and dry powder, it can be use directly from the case for a natural finish or quick touch up, or apply with a wet sponge for [luminescence and translucent coverage]. It is versatile and multifunctional when you have limited space for make-up tools.”

If I ever decide to jump on the powder foundation wagon, I will definitely try Bong’s secret weapon: “A touch of sheer highlighting powder and a few sprays of face mist after the application – I promise you will see the miracle.”

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