Flawless Foundation - Fundamentals

This write-up covers all you need to know about foundation. Hopefully this should help you choose the right foundation for yourself. Your foundation is the 1st step to pulling off a great makeup. Get it right girls!

What is foundation?
Foundation is a skin toned/flesh-toned cosmetic that sets the base before applying makeup. It’s the layer over which the rest of the makeup is applied. It’s a pigmented product intended for application on the face and the neck.

 

It brings out the true color of the face leaving the skin looking flawless.

What does foundation do?

• Hides the imperfections
• Balances the skin tone giving the complexion a smooth texture and uniform color
• Conceals open pores
• Covers blemishes, discoloration and scars
• Gives coverage to dark circles under the eyes
• Protects the skin from the sun and environmental pollutants
• Reduces shine and oiliness.

 The different types of foundation –

 

• Liquid Foundation  
• Cream to Powder Foundation  
• Cake Foundation  
• Powder Foundation 
• Stick Foundation  
• Mineral Powder Foundation  
• Whipped/Mousse Foundation  
• Tinted Moisturizer  

 

SKIN TYPES -

Normal skin - Any type of foundation from the ones listed above would work well. Suit yourself and pick the one you are most comfortable using. Moisturize to keep skin healthy and glowing. Cleanse, Tone and Moisturize.

 

Dry Skin – A product that’s liquid, creamy and moisturizing would be ideal. A cream foundation is surely long lasting and it also hydrates the skin. For dry and flaky facial skin choose an oil-based tinted moisturizer for light coverage. To achieve heavier coverage opt for an oil-based cream or liquid foundation. Powders will dry out your skin even more and giving out a matte finish that makes your skin type look dull and chalky.

 

Oily/ Acne prone skin – Oil-based and creamy products usually tend to give break outs, to avoid this look for a powder foundation that has a matte finish. An oil-free moisturizer and powder foundation would be a great option. Mineral powder foundation and stick foundation would work well too. Another suggestion would be to use a foundation with salicylic acid that treats pimples and does not clog pores. Make sure you use an oil-free formula.

 

Combination skin – Whipped, Stick or mineral powder foundation. Cream-to-powder foundation brings out the desired effect, as only he T-zone is a little oily. It’s really just a cross between a cream foundation and a pressed powder. When you apply it, the creaminess disappears leaving behind a matte look. Cream-to-powder foundation provides you a semi-matte or powdery finish. This type of foundation certainly does not require powdering after its application.

 

Sensitive skin – I would recommend using products that have the least possible chemicals. Anything would go well as far as it has fewer chemicals. Do not experiment too much or switch products frequently, find the right product and swear by it. Go for a hypoallergenic brand cosmetic.

 

PICK THE RIGHT SHADE -

 

The first rule is to always test your foundation in natural light to see if matches your skin color.

 

The foundation should be an exact match and there should be no demarcation lines where the application stops.

  

Remove makeup (if any) and apply the foundation on to your cheek.

 

Avoid using foundation on your wrist or hand, as these are not the best places to test your foundation. Test it where it’s really going to be applied!

 

It’s a good idea to try 2-3 different shades, one after the other and let it sit on the skin for a couple minutes to mix well with the heat of the skin and the body oils.

 

The next rule would be to look for the one that truly disappears into the skin and is a perfect match to your skin tone. It should really vanish!

 

The next step would be to apply some of it to your forehead to see it that matches too.

 

The foundation by no means adds color to your skin!

 

It’s essentially supposed to blend into you actual skin color. I cant insist more on this - Do not try to make yourself look fairer or darker than you really are with foundation, it will not only look unnatural but will look like a mask.

 

You can always add color with bronzers and blushes.

 

Foundation can be applied through a sponge, foundation brush or even with your fingers.

 

As a thumb rule, always remember to cleanse and tone your skin before applying foundation and clean your sponges and brushes after your done.

 

 

 APPLICATION -

 

Start applying foundation from the centre of your face. Dot the foundation on your nose, forehead, cheekbones, chin and around your eyes and lips. With the help of the sponge, brush or your fingertips blend it out well. The foundation must not show and should give a natural look. Make sure it’s neatly spread out. Gently press the sponge over your face to set the foundation.

 

Begin with blending it at your forehead and slowly spread all over your face. Moving in circular motions, blend out towards the jaw line and your hairline until the foundation vanishes. Take it down till the neck making sure there are no patches or demarcating lines.

 

Apply loose powder right after the application. The powder will hold the foundation for a longer period of time. Dab the brush into the powder and shake off the excess powder from the brush. The brush will help in applying the powder evenly to facial contours for a well-blended finish. First, apply it to the centre of your face, forehead and chin. Stroke gently to cover all areas. Apply a small amount of powder to the neck as well.

 

 

TIPS -

 

• For a liquid foundation - remember to shake the bottle to mix the formula.  
• Make sure the foundation is evenly spread after which it is set with a loose powder. Its makes all the difference.  
• If your skin is mature, look for a foundation with ingredients that reflect light (Mica) to brighten your skin. Find an appropriate foundation for your skin type that does not settle into fine lines and pores.  
• A heavier foundation is appropriate for those who have a lot of blemishes.  
• Before applying your foundation make sure to do your skin-care regime depending on your skin type. Foundation should be applied straight after the application of a moisturizer.  
• Select a foundation with an SPF of at least 15 to protect your skin from the Ultra Violet rays. A foundation with sunscreen helps prevent sun damage to the skin.  
• Always start applying foundation in the center of your face and gradually move outwards.  
• Use a makeup sponge or foundation brush to apply the foundation smoothly. 
• Light-diffusing foundation will give your skin a beautiful and a radiant look. 
• To conceal dark circles under the eyes apply small amount and blend well. 
• Summer to Winter Rule – For the summer, go for one shade darker as the skin is changes color due to exposure to sunlight.

 

Hope you enjoyed reading this and had a great take away!

 

Look forward to having you come back for more…