Foundation
Foundation,  as the name suggests, is the makeup that lays the base for all other makeup to follow. It goes on after applying concealer (used for correcting any color irregularities) and before applying powder (that sets the makeup) to give the skin a smooth, even canvas on which to build. Flawless overall coverage is usually the starting point for any makeup look. Whether you consider foundation to be a staple item in your makeup bag or just something to use for special occasions, there is a coverage type to suit your needs.
Choosing Foundation - Know your skin type. You want the foundation to blend into your skin seamlessly so that even you can't tell that you're wearing makeup. Part of getting the right foundation is choosing the right ingredients that will either moisturize the skin or keep you from breaking out. Part of this may also have to do with your age and the rest of your skin regimen.
- Understand your skin color. This includes undertones and skin "temperature" or skin "season." Below you can find out more about figuring out whether you are a summer person, if you have warm undertones or if you have yellow overtones. It sounds complicated but it is quintessential to finding the perfect foundation shade.
- If you can skip it, do. You only need so much coverage. Choose the minimal amount necessary to get the look you want. Often, young women with little discoloration or hyperpigmentation won't need much to smooth out their complexion. It all depends on the state of your skin and how much you need to counteract any flaws.
- Save or splurge. Buying foundation is extremely personal. If a $6 bottle of foundation matches your skin and feels great on, then great! You're a very lucky person. However, if it takes the $30 bottle of foundation to make it blend in seamlessly and not cause you to break out, then you may have to just deal with it. Not everyone will love Chanel and the same goes for Cover Girl.
When to Say Adieu
Remember that foundation, like other makeup, has a shelf life. Keeping it too long will eventually cause it to lose its consistency and it can make it unsafe to wear, clogging your pores and even causing unnecessary breakouts, rashes or other skin conditions. For liquids, get rid of it anywhere from three to six months after opening while powders can last up to a year. When in doubt, give it the sniff test -- if anything smells foul the foundation needs to go.
Understanding Undertones
This is one of the most difficult things to figure out when choosing foundation, but it is the most important for getting the right shade. One of the best ways to determine the undertones of your skin is to hold up two pieces of clothing or paper next to your face. First try something silver and then gold. If your skin has warm undertones, the gold will look best next to your skin. If your skin has cool undertones, the silver will look best next to your skin.Usually, those with pink skin will have cool undertones, while those with yellow skin will have warm undertones. Olive or tan skin often has warm undertones, and those with dark skin usually have cool blue undertones.
When shopping, don't be afraid to compare and contrast a variety of foundations until you find the right hue. Testing on your hand is okay, but it's better to try a few swatches on your jawline. After sampling the shades, head outdoors with a mirror and see which color disappears into your skin. That one is the right one.
Foundation Coverage Type
Here are some quick suggestions about what each skin type needs. To learn more about each type of foundation read on. You'll also find product recommendations for each foundation type.
- Oily
- Try oil-free and ultra-matte foundation that will help reduce shine and will last a long time. Pressed-powder foundations are also good.
- Avoid tinted moisturizers, some sheer foundations, liquid foundation, illuminating foundation, and cream to powder compacts.
- Dry
- Tinted creams and illuminators are great for dry skin, as are liquid foundations and oil-based foundations.
- Avoid pressed-powder foundations, water-to-powder compacts and oil-free or liquid matte foundations.
- Normal or Mixed
- If you have normal skin, choose the coverage that feels best.
- If you have combo skin concentrate on picking products that best suit whichever problem is worse -- oiliness or dryness.
| - Teens -- It's best that teens hold off on foundation to keep from aggravating any skin problems and to remain looking their age. Otherwise, they should opt for the light coverage foundations mentioned above.
- Avoid wearing makeup if possible since it's not really necessary.
- Less makeup means fewer clogged pores and less pimples.
- If you want to wear makeup to cover blemishes, look for the kind that combines acne medicine in it.
- Mature Skin -- Makeup can help reduce the appearance of fine lines if applied correctly and if the right type is used.
- Too much makeup can actually make your skin look older rather than younger.
- Fine lines and wrinkles actually act as foundation traps so that the makeup gets caked up making the skin look unnatural. Therefore, choose light to medium coverage foundation that can float on skin and use a primer before applying color.
- Oil-based foundations help fill in wrinkles making your skin appear younger.
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Lightest Coverage
The lightest coverage is meant for those with little to no skin discoloration or hyperpigmentation to cover up. For most people, it is ideal for use as an everyday foundation because it is the least likely to irritate the skin or cause breakouts and it rarely feels like it's even on the skin. Teens, young adults and even older women may enjoy this type of "barely there" foundation. Also, those with freckles might like sheer foundation because it lets their freckles shine through.
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Primer
Primers are colorless foundations used to "prime" the skin so that other foundations can be applied over it. They can be used under other foundations or alone just to even the skin tone and reduce the look of large pores. |
Tinted Moisturizer
This is a very light and easy way to even out the skin that is compatible with most skin types. Not only does it smooth out the complexion, but it moisturizes the skin and may include an SPF. Acne-prone and oily skin beware. |
Illuminating Foundation
Very light foundation like this is good for adding a touch of shimmer to your skin. It is very subtle and can be used during the day, giving the skin a warm glow. Avoid this if you have oily skin, but indulge if you have dry skin. It can also be applied over other foundation to highlight certain areas of the face, such as the apples of the cheeks, the brow line, and eye area. |
Sheer Foundation
This is a true foundation but it's still very light. It is called sheer because it lets your natural radiance shine through, plus it is less likely to clog pores. A great choice for people who want an easy going look but some coverage. Perfect if you are just starting to use foundation or if you use it very rarely. |
Medium Coverage
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Liquid Foundation
It can vary from light to medium coverage for a natural look. It does better at covering blemishes and fine lines and balancing uneven skin tone. It's also easy to apply as it blends so smoothly. If you have oily skin look for oil-free versions (water-based), which help eliminate shine and reduce the chance of developing breakouts. For dry skin, choose oil-based foundations.
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Compact Foundation
Depending on the blend, these can offer light to medium in coverage. They usually dry to a lightweight powder finish and may consist of either a liquid powder or a cream powder. Application is fairly easy and it eliminates the need for a final powder step. Apply it with a wet sponge for heavier coverage. Be careful to choose these according to skin type as the liquid type is bad for dry skin and the cream type not so hot on oily skin. |
Full Coverage
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Matte Foundation
This is pretty basic coverage level for just about anyone that needs complete coverage. It is flat and heavy and does great as a base because it lasts several hours. However, this is not the best for applying on the go because it requires some layering of blush, luminizer or bronzer so that your face doesn't look washed out. Plus, these can sometimes dry out skin. |
Stick Foundation
These are heavier foundations in stick form as the name implies.
They usually combine a concealer and foundation into one, which makes them great for heavier coverage. While they are easy to apply, they require good blending skills so that they don't look patchy and unnatural. |
Cream/Creme Foundation
This very heavy form of coverage also provides a moisture barrier, which is good on dry skin. However, while this type of foundation provides excellent coverage it is sometimes overkill because it can look unnatural if it isn't applied properly. You may also hear this type of foundation referred to as "pancake." |
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