Wearing your foundation wrong is one of the most common mistakes made by people on a daily basis; having said that, wrong foundation can make you look like a mess and ruin your entire look.
The foundation application process is the first step in wearing your make-up and there are two ways you can go about it, either achieve a flawless skin or on the contrary, overdo it and end up looking caked.
Here is how you can achieve a perfect looking skin in five simple steps.
Step 1: Find the Perfect Colour
The most common misconception of foundation is that the colour should match that of your face, when in fact the best matched foundation will blend with the color of your neck. The most effective area for an accurate skin match is just below and in front of the ear. The neck joins the face in this area, which allows you to see the undertone (the intrinsic colour of the skin) and the shade (lightness or darkness) of the face and neck. If the colour is correct, it will disappear without blending. Don’t be afraid to mix two or even three foundations to achieve your perfect colour.
Step 2: Prepare your Skin
Clean, tone and moisturize your face and let it set for 5 to10 minutes before you apply primer. Primer is the base for your foundation. It will protect your skin, smooth the fine lines and fill in pores. Preparing your skin will not only help you achieve flawless application but it will also make your make-up last longer.
Step 3: Applying it the right way
Before you start applying your foundation, always remember “less is more”. When applying, it is important to use the product in moderation so you have control over the quality of the finished look. It is always easier to add product, if needed, rather than having too much which can result in streaking and leaving the application uneven.
You can use a sponge or a brush to apply, just remember to blend, blend, and blend! Your face and neck should not have a line where the foundation ends. ‘The Beauty Blender’ cosmetic sponge is my personal favourite; it leaves just the right amount on your skin and gives an airbrushed finish.
Step 4:Conceal after foundation
If you use the concealer before foundation you will end up using more than required. The foundation itself will cover most of the redness or imperfections. Dab a tiny amount of concealer with a small brush to hide those imperfections that you can see even after applying foundation. A concealer should be one shade lighter than you skin tone; going too light can make it look fake and blotchy.
Step 5: Set it with Powder
Apply loose powder with a fluffy brush lightly all over the face, especially where the face can get oily. A brush gives the most natural finish. Under the eyes and on trouble spots, pat the tiniest amount of powder with a small brush to keep concealer in place. My favourite is MAKE UP FOR EVER HD Microfinish Powder as it is translucent and slightly matte’s the skin.