If you haven’t quite mastered the basics of makeup application, it can sometimes be stressful to try to apply your own cosmetics or to experiment with a bolder look. Learning – or even re-learning – the fundamentals can help increase confidence and give you the courage to amp up your everyday look. In this basic, beginner makeup lesson, we’ll explain how you can find the best foundation for your particular skin tone and your unique complexion.
Foundation is the fundamental base for your makeup. It evens out your skin tone and covers up any blemishes or flaws. But done incorrectly, it can appear cakey or obvious rather than like the best version of your natural skin. Read on for a few tips on how to find a foundation that will compliment your look.
Skin Type
When searching for your foundation, consider the type of skin you have. Opt for an oil-free or a powder foundation if you struggle with excessively oily skin or if you’re in the midst of a heat wave and apt to get greasy. If you have sensitive skin, choose a hypo-allergenic product that will go easy on your tender complexion, and if your skin tends to be dry, be sure to pick up a moisturizing foundation that will help to hydrate.
Skin Tone
Be sure to choose a foundation that will blend with the tone of your own skin colour. To test a particular shade, smear a bit from a sampler on the back of your hand and see how it works with your natural tone.
If you can’t quite find a match, you can try mixing colours – which is also a great solution if you have lighter skin that’s apt to change from lighter to darker with more or less sunshine.
Before you buy, dab a little bit on your jawline to make sure that you won’t end up with the dreaded mask look, when your face is tinted a different colour than your neck.
If, despite your best efforts, you can’t seem to select the perfect match for your skin tone, opt for some professional advice in the makeup section of a department store. You might pay a bit more but you can use the product as a baseline for future purchases and gain confidence in how you’ll look.
Application
Always be sure to moisturize your skin before applying your foundation in order to smooth it into your skin. It’s best to select a moisturizer with SPF in order to protect yourself from the sun. Utilize a foundation brush, beauty sponge or even your own clean fingertips to gently sweep the foundation over under-eye shadows, any blemishes and generally to even out your appearance.
Use these tips to help you feel self-assured about your makeup application and exude an inner beauty of confidence.