Foundation is a magical makeup product that can instantly create flawless-looking skin. But this is also one product that has to be used correctly and with regard to your skin type and even your age in order to ensure it looks its best. Just a few missteps with foundation really shows. You may notice more exaggerated texture on your skin, pores that are magnified, and streaky results. This is the exact opposite of what you want to see when you apply your foundation. Following a few smart hacks can really help.
Here, Makeup Artist Marlena Stell explains the six mistakes she has often made with foundation and the six great hacks she now follows for gorgeous makeup coverage.
1. Starting With Hydrating Skincare
A great makeup routine doesn’t start with makeup — it starts with hydrating skincare products. It’s important to clean your skin and then follow up with a serum that contains hyaluronic acid or niacinamide for hydration and brightening. And then finish things off with a good moisturizer. Allow for some time (10 minutes or so) for your skincare products to absorb before applying foundation to prevent your makeup from becoming streaky and cakey.
2. Layer Skincare the Right Way
Knowing which order to apply skincare and makeup will go a long way. After cleansing, apply your toner, serums, and then moisturizer. If it’s daytime, wait a few minutes and apply sunscreen. Then wait before applying primer to create a barrier between makeup and your skin and then foundation and concealer (if you use one).
3. Use Thin-Viscosity Foundation Formulas
Especially when it comes to mature skin, using foundations with thinner formulations can be more forgiving and make your skin appear more flawless. The thinner the foundation, the less likely it is to get “stuck” in fine lines and other texture on the skin.
4. Customizing Foundation Shades
Even if a foundation brand offer more than 50 shades of makeup, that doesn’t mean you’ll find the perfect match. Sometimes mixing two shades of foundation to create a customized shade that works for your skin tone and undertone is the way to go to invent the perfect color.
5. Use the Right Application Tool
There is some debate among makeup artists about the right application tool for foundation, with many agreeing a quality brush can be best. Using your fingers to apply makeup and blend it along your jawline and neck is also a preferred technique for some. Just make sure whichever method you use, you are blending well.
6. Change Foundations for the Seasons
When temperatures heat up, your foundation formula should change — preferably to something lighter in weight. And the same rule applies when it gets cold outside — using a foundation that’s more hydrating can ensure your skin doesn’t appear dry under the weight of makeup. Change foundation to suit the season and your skin’s current state.
