The best makeup application always starts with a flawless base. A good skincare routine, coupled with the right shade and texture of foundation, as well as great application tips, get the credit for creating even-toned skin and a hint of glow in your complexion. But foundation isn’t the easiest makeup product to apply well. A few wrong turns and you can easily wind up with flaky, streaky foundation — since there’s nothing worse than having to wash a full face of makeup off and start over again, it’s a good idea to start with great tips in mind.
Makeup Artist Lisa Monique has a wealth of wisdom when it comes to makeup tips for older women. Here are three of her must-follow tips for applying foundation so that it looks flawless.
Apply Using a Makeup Brush
If your tool of choice for applying foundation is a makeup brush, Monique recommends a round, soft bristle brush for applying cream foundations because the shape allows you to dab the makeup into skin and buff it to really get it where you want it. A contoured, tapered brush is also a good one to turn to for everyday liquid foundation. Because of the taper, it’s difficult to buff your makeup, but Monique demonstrates how she blends it in using quick, downward strokes.
Apply Using Your Fingers
Your fingers will work best on thinner and more watery foundation, Monique says. Using your fingers is a good method because it distributes the foundation well and wipes off a bit of its excess, though obviously you’ll have to wash your hands well before moving onto other areas of your face. Using your fingers is also great when you want to build up coverage slowly. Adding a dot of foundation here or there where you feel you need it is more precise and measured than using a large makeup brush.
Apply Foundation With a Makeup Sponge
Monique recommends using a damp or dry makeup sponge to apply foundation. Apply makeup to your skin first and then buff the sponge around your skin to evenly distribute it and allow it to settle. Only swipe with your sponge if you have too much foundation in one area and want to move or remove it.
Find the Right Foundation Shade
There are dozens upon dozens of foundation shades out there — all with undertones of warm, cool, and neutral (as if finding the right shade wasn’t difficult enough). And the truth really is: your foundation is only going to look as good as the shade you wear. Always test a foundation, preferably on your lower cheek and in natural light. If it’s truly your color it will sink into your skin, undetectable. If you aren’t sure about your undertone, ask a professional at a store like Sephora to help you.
Once you get the hang of applying foundation, you won’t look back. This is one makeup product that has the power to transform your entire look — but it’s imperative that you choose the right shade and formulation for your skin and apply it well.
