Tuesday, June 23, 2009

Flawless Foundation Application


First off here’s a tip that I wasn’t aware of: if you want liquid foundation to remain usable throughout its lifetime, always shake it well before application. I've been kind of lax about that...

Then the trick is to pick the right foundation color. For a natural look your foundation must match your skin tone. Test foundations along your jawline. Blend the foundation into your skin to see if the color is right. If it's too light, then test the next shade darker. If it's too dark, then go down a shade until the color matches. You will know the best color because it will disappear into your skin. The goal of foundation application is to neutralize any discoloration and imbalance, not to change the tone /color of your skin. (I've heard that you should test the color on your skin and then go outside in natural light before you buy.)

For flawless application start with a clean, moisturized face. A clean face will allow the makeup to smooth and blend easier. Apply the appropriate moisturizer according to your skin type. It will improve your skin quality and act as a protective layer to help trap the moisture in the skin and stop it from evaporation. Apply the moisturizer and let it soak in at least 3 minutes before applying foundation.( Dry skin will soak up the foundation if not given that base. For oily skin use an oil-free moisturizer and powder foundation.)

Apply foundation by dabbing a small amount on your face. Start by applying the foundation in little dots on your forehead, down your nose and on your chin and cheeks. Blend the foundation with a brush, sponge or your fingertips. Blend it off on the jaw line and hair line. Make sure it's blended completely to create a natural, flawless look. Using fingertips will give the heaviest application, but a sponge gives a thinner application. Be extra careful in the area around your eyes where the skin is super thin. Don't forget to apply foundation on your eyelids and lips. (I’ve never done that!)To avoid a foundation line around the jaw apply foundation as usual then use a little moisturizer in your hand and blend it down your neck.

On the under-eye area, apply facial makeup with a finger or with a small synthetic brush or applicator. These tools are particularly useful for accessing the inner corners of your eyes. Pat with your fingertips to blend, using your ring finger or pinkie to minimize the pressure.

On blemishes, apply concealer in small spots with a finger then blend the edges with your fingertips. To cover imperfections apply foundation first and then go back and dot on a concealer that neutralizes red. For noticeable imperfections like very dark circles and birthmarks use a yellow concealer. Don't use too much powder in problem areas because it will draw attention to it.

The worst mistake you can make is to follow liquid foundation with powder foundation (heavy powder pressed into a compact with oil). This will merely look artificial when first applied, and will have slid down your face by the end of the day. (Not a good look!)

To finish, and for retouching during the day, use loose or pressed powder that is light-textured and contains no oil. Setting foundation with a powder is a must for oily skin; however, if your skin is dry or if you use solid foundation, your foundation will stay in place without powder.

Liquid foundation should never be applied over your makeup for retouching purposes, because it is impossible to blend well on top of powder, dust, or sebum. To diminish unwanted shine, use finishing powder instead.

The smoother your skin, the more natural the foundation will look. So do exfoliate twice a week to get rid of dead skin.

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