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Foundation is the base of most full face makeup looks. Although no one has completely perfect skin, the right foundation (and method of applying) can help it look flawless. However, it can be difficult to find the correct balance when it comes to foundation; too much of a good thing can leave you looking older than your years (which is exactly what we do NOT want).
With that in mind, if you want ageless skin, keep reading for the life-changing foundation tricks you should be using to look 10 years younger.
Moisturize first (and carefully).
It's a good rule of thumb to moisturize your skin before applying any foundation. Plus, strategic placement of your moisturizer can help take care of any problem areas that might be drier than you'd like.
Nina Park, a makeup artist who works with Bella Thorne and Bella Hadid, explains her foundation method to Self: "I start with my regular moisturizer, then press a balmy, thicker treatment moisturizer in places that need it (typically around the nose, cheeks, forehead). I let it soak in and then blot with a one-ply tissue to remove the excess before starting foundation."
Don't overdo it.
Nothing ages you more than applying too many layers of foundation. Cakey foundation is a huge mistake for anyone looking for a more youthful look.
Ermahn Ospina, a makeup artist who's worked with Sarah Michelle Gellar, Carla Gugino, and Rosario Dawson, thinks less is more. She tells Allure: "By applying five dots of foundation—one each on your cheeks, forehead, chin, and neck—and distributing outward in circular motions using a foundation brush will give you a flawless result."
Add a highlighter.
Using a highlighter can also help your skin capture a more youthful glow.
Kevyn Aucoin Beauty’s global director of artistry and education, Nick Lujan, tells Who What Wear: "To reduce the look of fine line and wrinkles, you want to plump skin and smooth texture. Sticking to more hydrating and radiant foundation formulas will certainly help."
He adds, "A full-coverage foundation with a liquid highlighter is my favorite combination."
Avoid matte formulas.
Huda Kattan, founder of Huda Beauty, trecommends steering clear of matte formulas.
Speaking to Town and Country Magazine, she explains, "Choose a tinted moisturizer over a full-coverage foundation for a more youthful complexion. Anything with a heavy or matte formula will sit on top of the skin and accentuate any wrinkles. If you want more coverage, go for a foundation that has a dewy finish, as matte formulas settle into fine lines more easily which can make you look older."
