With all the different cosmetics out there, it can be hard to find a
foundation that is just right for your complexion and skin type. Changes in the
seasons and your diet can give your skin a different glow or feel, so it’s
important to know how to shop for foundation that will keep your skin healthy
and your pores unclogged.
Know your skin type
If your skin is oily, you may want to try a foundation that is water-based
or oil-free. For dry skin, try a cream or liquid foundation. Keep in mind that
darker skin tends to be oilier because more light is reflected off of women of
color. Fairer skin mostly has reddish pigments, and darker skin has yellowish
undertones, so be sure to use this rule to shop for the right foundation. When
you are testing foundation, put a small amount on your jaw line. This is the most
accurate way to tell if the foundation will blend in with your skin color;
testing the makeup on your cheeks is not always the best way to go, since your
cheeks are usually darker than the rest of the face. Testing foundation on the
back of the hand isn’t too reliable either, since your hand and your face are
rarely the same color.
Application
Before you apply your foundation, use a hypo-allergenic moisturizer after
cleansing so that your makeup will stay on top of the skin. You can apply
makeup with a sponge or your fingertips; be sure to blend quickly and evenly.
In especially hot weather, you can set your makeup with powder by using a blush
brush.
If you want to use a concealer, you’ll need to select one that is best for
your skin as well. It’s best to use a flat makeup brush to apply concealer,
since it covers more area of the face and won’t cake up as quickly. Apply
concealer to the under-eye area to hide dark circles and fine lines, and you
can even use concealer to hide most blemishes and to give skin a more even
tone. You should choose a concealer that is a little lighter than your
foundation, so that your face won’t look shadowed when you apply your
foundation. You can even use the dried out makeup in the cap of your foundation
as a concealer. Since this makeup is a little drier, it will be thicker, and
will match your foundation exactly.