Makeup masterclass: how to apply foundation

The main point of using a foundation or base is to even out the tone and colour of the skin. Choosing the correct products to create the desired look is key, whether it’s a youthful glow, a full-cover matte or a natural-looking finish. Here is a guide to help sort out the confusion.

1. Before applying foundation, make sure the skin is cleansed and moisturised. Wait a few minutes for the moisturiser to settle into the skin before application. If the face is damp and sticky, it can cause the foundation to clog up and look uneven. Try to use a non-sticky lotion that is not greasy or use a facial oil, such as Bio Oil.

2. Dab a small amount of foundation on the face in little dots on the forehead, down the nose and on the chin and cheeks.

3. Always apply in downward strokes to minimise pores. Sweep over ears and under jaw.

4. Blend the foundation with a brush, sponge, or your fingertips. Make sure it is blended completely to create a natural flawless look. Always apply foundation quickly and lightly. Smooth, even strokes will prevent the colour looking clogged.

5. Check application in natural light to make sure the foundation is properly blended. If you need more coverage, apply concealer in specific areas rather than adding more foundation.

Top products to try

Full coverage
This type of coverage gives skin the appearance of flawlessness. A good full coverage can effectively cover scars, discoloration and blemishes – almost like a concealer – over the entire face. These foundations also work well on Asian and black skin tones.
Top tip: To get a flawless base on any skin type, dilute the fuller coverage or stick foundation by mixing it with a sheer fluid tinted moisturiser.
Try: Double Wear Maximum Cover Camouflage Makeup for Face & Body SPF 15, 30 ml £26.50; www.esteelauder.co.uk

Sheer coverage
Sheer foundation lets the skin look natural and unmade. It will even out the skin tone, but allows freckles, beauty marks and so on to be visible, giving the effect of a makeup-free face.
Try: By Terry Sheer-Expert Perfecting Fluid, 35ml £44; www.spacenk.co.uk

Oil control
Great for those with oily skin, this formula can help keep shine at bay by creating a matte-textured finish. Usually ‘oil free’ means it contains no lanolin or mineral oils (these are the oils that tend to clog pores and cause sensitivity).
Try: Givenchy Eclat Matissime SPF 20, £32.50, www.houseoffraser.co.uk

Illuminating
This is a foundation that leaves a glow and luminous finish on the skin. Some illuminating foundations can contain tiny pearl and glitter particles.
Try: Clarins Skin Illusion Natural Radiance Foundation SPF10, 30ml £24; 0800 036 3558, www.clarins.co.uk.

Moisturising
The best base for dry to normal skin types, it gives extra hydration and works well on mature skin.
Try: Bobbi Brown Extra-Repair Foundation SPF £25, 30 ml £36; www.bobbibrown.co.uk

Cream to powder
This formula has a more traditional texture and usually comes in a compact. It goes on creamy and dries to a powder finish. Cream-to-powder-formulas give a medium finish, which is ideal for skin that needs more coverage than a liquid foundation, but not as much as full coverage.
Try: Urban Decay Surreal Skin Cream-to-Powder Foundation Compact, £20 www.houseoffraser.co.uk

Click here for more foundation types and tips, plus how to apply concealer

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