Tips for Choosing and Applying Foundation Makeup

When it comes to the art of applying cosmetics, foundation makeup is the area where most people make major mistakes. They either choose the wrong color, ending up with skin that appears too light or too dark, or they don’t apply it correctly and end up with an unblended mess. Choosing foundation color and learning to apply it properly can be a challenge but once you know the basics, you’ll have flawless looking skin for life!

Choosing Foundation Makeup Type And Color

If you are completely new to the idea of choosing the right color of foundation, it may be best to make a quick trip to the department store and visit a Clinique counter or other cosmetic counter for help and tips. The experts there can help you choose the right color. Of course, once you understand the process of choosing the color you can always switch to a drugstore brand like Cover Girl and match your color to the department store color chosen for you.

The first step to choosing your own foundation however is to choose not the color but the type of formula you need. There are many different foundation skin products, for all types of face issues. If you have oily skin you may want to go with a cream or powder formula. If you have dry skin or combination skin, a liquid formula might work best. Some people like to add a translucent or opaque mineral powder over their liquid foundation, so keep that in mind while shopping.

In addition to thinking about your skin type, you’ll need to think about the coverage you need and your lifestyle. If you have blotchy skin you might need a formula that offers bold coverage but if you simply want to even out your tone a bit, a lighter coverage formula might work better. If you live a very active and sporty lifestyle, you might even want to consider waterproof or stick foundation.

When you are choosing your color on your own, look for yellow based colors because they look most natural on all people. Be sure to look for a shade that somewhat matches your clean jaw line, neck color or the color on the inside of your wrist. A makeup counter expert can help you with this if you do choose to visit the department store. If you buy at a drugstore, some of them will accept exchanges on makeup. So, keep in mind if you don’t get the right color the first time you might be able to exchange it for another color.

Applying The Foundation Makeup

When you get your foundation home, sit near a window and try the color on your jawline to be sure it is correct. It should blend in naturally to your skin’s color and your neck color.

Once you’re sure the color is perfect, start by dotting the foundation on your forehead, nose, each cheek and chin. Then using a sponge, blend the dots together until your face is covered. You can choose to do total face coverage in this manner or you can also choose to simply apply the foundation where you need the coverage the most. Either way, the key to getting a natural look is to blend it well. Be sure to blend it completely, leaving no streaks or unnatural looking areas.

Choosing and applying foundation makeup can be difficult but to get the best makeup look possibly, it’s important to take the time to learn how to do it properly!