Many women avoid wearing foundation because they are scared of an unnatural mask-like effect. The foundation market today is saturated with many types and brands of foundations. Foundation is the cosmetic product that women pay the most attention to. And remember, foundation is one of those products you wear every day, so making the right investment at the beginning will pay off. There are two keys to applying foundation - the first is to choose the perfect foundation shade and the second is to pick the right formulation for your skin.
Choosing foundation type
The reason for applying foundation is to get a smooth and even finish to your skin. Liquid foundation is most commonly used because it is easy to apply. However, compact foundations are excellent alternatives as they give an even finish, which doesn't have to be set with powder.
Types of Foundations
Tinted Moisturizers - These are a a cross between a moisturizer and a foundation, as they will soothe your skin while giving a little coverage. They are ideal for young or clear skins. Unlike other foundations, you can blend tinted moisturizers on with your fingertips.
Liquid Foundations - These suit all but the driest skins. If you have oily skin, look for an oil-free liquid foundation to cover affected areas without aggravating them.
Cream Foundations - These are thick , rich and moisturizing, making them ideal for dry or mature skins. They have a fairy heavy texture, so blend them well into your skin with a damp cosmetic sponge.
Mousse Foundation - Again these are quite moisturizing and ideal for drier skins. To apply, dab a little onto the back of your hand, then dot onto your skin with a sponge.
Compact Foundation - These are all-in-one formulations, which already contain powder. They come in a compact, usually with their own sponge for application.
Stick Foundation - These are the original foundation, dating back to the early days of hollywood. They are best confined for use on badly blemished skin.
HOW TO APPLY FOUNDATION
Foundation is always applied downwards, to minimize the impact of facial hair.
Take out a small blob of foundation on the palm of your hand. As foundation dries up fast, dot foundation section by section on the face.
Start by dotting on the forehead and blend well with a damp sponge on fingers before moving on.
Now do it on your cheeks, then chin, nose and upper neck.
You may dilute the foundation by adding some astringent, toner or even water to make it sheer enough to let your skin show through. It looks more natural if applied like this.
HOW TO BUY FOUNDATION
Test foundation on the inside of the forearm-skin tone is closest to neck colour there, because it's protected from UV damage. Makeup should blend with the skin colour of the neck, not the face. If any doubt then buy one shade lighter than your facial skin tone. Don't make up your mind instantly. It takes about a minute for colour to dry and interact with the chemicals in your skin. The red pigments develop first so it will appear the pinkest at the beginning. Then go to the nearest source of natural light. (Even the most flattering uplift cosmetics hall tends to have colour-distorting fluorescent lighting.) If you have chosen the right colour, it will disappear into the skin.
