Lay The Foundation

Called foundation for the simple reason that it forms the base for flawless make-up, it’s one of the most important tools to getting your look right. While earlier it was considered essential for party and formal make-up, today, foundation has become an essential item in your everyday look. It is an essential in your beauty kit as it helps form a protective barrier against environment damage, helps cover skin imperfections such as blemish and scars and gives the skin an even tone. While choosing the right one may seem uncomplicated, remember, in this case, one size does not fit all. These expert-backed tips can go a long way in picking the perfect foundation for your skin type and tone.

Types of Foundations and Their Application

Whipped

Light in weight, whipped or mousse foundation is perfect for those looking for a weightless, natural product that does not sit heavy on the skin. Great for most skin types, this is ideal for those with mature skin.

How to apply: This airy formulation is super easy to apply. Just dip your finger in the jar and dot your face with it. Using your finger or a make-up sponge, blend into your skin. 

Liquid

This is the most popular variety because it’s easy to use and you don’t even need to carry a brush to apply it, just use your fingertips to dab on and blend. It works well for both dry and combination skins.

How to apply: Dot the foundation all over your face, especially the areas that need most coverage. Blend in using a brush or your fingertips. Double dab problem areas with foundation and blend in again.

Mineral 

With more people looking for multitasking products, mineral foundation works well to not just cover skin imperfections, its anti-inflammatory properties help soothe irritated skin and so it’s good for people with skin conditions such as acne and breakouts.

How to apply: Dip the brush in the powder, tap it to remove excess amounts, then use circular motions to apply it all over your face, neck and chest. 

Powder

A powder foundation typically comes in a compact case, much like what your grandmother used, but in a more contemporary avatar. Because it’s a dry formulation, it works best for oily. People with fine lines should avoid using it because the powder may settle in between, defining fine lines even more.

How to apply: Load the sponge or a thick make-up brush with powder, dab it on your face, then quickly buff in circular motions outwards and down inwards so that it all blends in. Make sure you cover the forehead, cheekbones, brush it down the nose, on the chin, and down the jawline and neck for an even finish.

Cream 

Gentle on the skin, it’s easy to apply and blends into the skin beautifully, giving it a natural, dewy glow. While cream foundations sit well on all skin types, they are ideal for normal, dry and combination skin types.

How to apply: Dab a small amount of foundation on a tapered brush. Start applying from the centre of the face, down the nose and forehead, blending it towards the cheekbones in circular motions. Regardless of whether you use a brush or your fingertips, blending in is the most important aspect of getting it right.

How to Choose the Right Colour for Yourself

Determine your undertone, whether it’s cool (blue red or pink tone), warm (golden, yellow, peach tone) or neutral (mix of both) and choose the base accordingly. Try the foundation on your neck and jawline. The right colour of foundation will blend into the skin and disappear instead of appearing patchy.