Makeup artists have their work cut out for them when it comes to creating a flawless foundation look that accomplishes the impossible: making sure makeup doesn’t settle into “deep lines” or “emphasize” pores. The very nature of may foundation formulas means they’re going to sit on top of the skin and it’s no easy feat to get coverage that still looks like skin, especially if you have mature skin that is experiencing signs of aging such as fine lines, deep lines, and dryness.
A popular creator and makeup artist, Risa Flashner, created a video for her followers that graciously introduces one super-smart hack: mixing foundation and concealer together for a more flawless finish. “With this hack, you are able to get variable amounts of coverage with just one foundation,” Risa says. “It’s not going to settle into fine lines or even deep lines on the face.”
In addition to one of her favorite beautiful foundation hacks, we offer three more tips to follow when using foundation so that you always get a gorgeous finish.
1. Mix Foundation With Concealer
Grab a metal makeup palette because we’re about to get creative. According to Risa, mixing semi-sheer foundation with concealer, either on a palette or the back of your hand, will give you coverage that looks natural — like skin, which is the goal. Add one pump of liquid foundation to two drops of liquid concealer and blend well. Take a foundation brush, swirl it into the formula, and apply to your face. You can add more coverage as needed if you find some part of your skin requires a little more.
2. Apply Primer
We may have jumped ahead, but let’s take one step back. Before you apply your foundation mixed with concealer, prep your skin with a quality primer. Today’s primers come in so many formulations for all skin types, so whether you have oily or dry skin, there’s a primer that can make your skin matte or add enough moisture so that your makeup will sit well on your skin for hours. Wait a few minutes between your skincare routine, primer application, and foundation application so that your skin has time to dry.
3. Apply Foundation Sparingly
Similar to how you should add salt and spices sparingly to your recipes, it’s always easier to add more foundation later than it is to remove too much foundation that you’ve already applied. Go slow, add a light layer, and then add more makeup if you find more coverage is needed.
4. Set Your Foundation
Don’t just apply foundation and leave it uncovered — it needs a dusting of translucent powder to help it set and stay in place for hours. A light foundation formula applied with a light hand is paramount to ensure your makeup doesn’t get caked on. If you find all powders sit too heavily on your skin, experiment with a quality setting spray instead.
