How To Apply Foundation

Foundation can cover imperfections, give the appearance of matte, flawless skin, even out skin tone and reduce shine. There is a wide variety of foundations available in the market. There are liquid foundations, powder foundations, mousse foundations, stick foundations, creamy foundation and oil-free foundations.

No matter what kind or type of foundation you are using, always cleanse and tone your skin before applying foundation. Use a mild cleanser appropriate for your skin and cleanse your face thoroughly to remove all the impurities and oils that have accumulated during the night. Tone your skin with a toner that suits your skin. Then moisturize your face with a moisturizer or primer that’s perfect for your skin type. Let it set for a few minutes especially if your skin is oily. Camouflage your dark under-eye circles with a concealer. Shake the foundation bottle and start applying it by first dotting it on your forehead, cheeks, chin and nose. If you do not want an all over coverage, apply just in the needed areas. Smooth it over your face and gently blend in upward, outward motions, making sure not to forget the side of your nose, under your eyebrows, along the jaw line, blending an inch below the jaw line and chin. Gently blot the face with a tissue when you are done, to soak up any excess oil. Your foundation should feel light and natural. Set the foundation with loose powder immediately after application.

Applying Foundation Tips

• Always moisturize before applying foundation or base. It makes it flow smoothly over the skin for a more even and well blended appearance.

• Be sure to select the proper foundation. Test foundation along your jaw line. It should blend easily into your natural skin tone. You might find you need a slightly darker shade of makeup for summer.

• Depending on how much coverage you want, Use cream or long-wearing foundations for heavier coverage or use lotions or tinted moisturizers for lighter coverage.

• Start by applying foundation to your forehead being sure to blend carefully around the hair line. Follow with your nose, checks and jaw line. Be sure to blend the jaw line smooth so you don't have a line showing. The best way to assure this is by using a make-up wedge.

• Follow with a good pressed powder to seal in the coverage.

Choosing Colors and Blending Tips

• Apply two shades of foundation to your face, a lighter on your whole face, and then a darker shade on your cheekbones to make your cheekbones look higher.

• If your face's natural color is light, avoid any dark foundation color.

• Shade the border between your face and neck until it’s invisible. Follow with Your favorite loose or pressed powder (translucent loose powder for normalto- oily skin and pressed powder for normal-to-dry skin).

• Brighten up your face--For a natural, subtle, and flush of color reach for bronzing powder with a large, fluffy brush and dust a light layer on forehead, nose, cheeks and chin.

• Get rid of laugh lines--Use a concealer pencil and draw three horizontal lines (like cat whiskers) next to the corner of your mouth. Sponge blend in an upward direction for an instant lift.

• Ultra sheer foundation--Mix your foundation and a moisturizer together for a light foundation. You can also use a dampened cosmetic sponge for the sheerest, most natural look.

• Plump up sunken cheeks--Apply a lighter shade of foundation or highlighter to the hollows of your cheeks.