Tips and Tricks for Flawless Foundation

Foundation can be pretty intimidating, but it doesn't have to be. With the amount of brands and formulas available today, it doesn't need to be like your Grandmothers cakey face powder. If done correctly, foundation should be undetectable, and natural looking. It should even out your skin tone, help conceal blemishes, even minimize wrinkles. Here are a few tips to picking a foundation and making it work for you!

PREPARE THE SKIN

Your skin is the canvas for your makeup, so it's very important to have a good skin care routine. Smooth, well moisturized skin is the best for applying foundation. Exfoliating with a good scrub once a week, and moisturizing daily will keep your skin in great condition.

CHOOSING A FORMULA

There are so many different types available it can be overwhelming! It's best to match a formula to your skin type. Here's a bit of a guideline:

• Dry Skin - moisturizing formulas, creams, liquids. Avoid heavy powders as they can look pasty and flaky on dry skin.
• Oily Skin - oil free liquid formulas, powders. Avoid thick creams or non oil free liquids, they will only add to your oily areas.
• Acne Prone Skin - Oil free liquids, mineral formulas. Some brands carry formulas that have a small percentage of salystic acid in them, to help heal acne and prevent it while you wear the foundation.

 CHOOSING A SHADE

Choosing the right shade of foundation is probably the most important step. You want as close to an exact match as possible. This means you might have to use different shades throughout the year, depending on how tan or pale you are. Here's a few tips for find your perfect shade:

• Don't be afraid to ask for samples or testers, you should never purchase something without trying it.
• Natural daylight is the best light to test in. Sometimes it can look different in the bright store lighting then in a softer more natural light
• Test on the back of your hand, or the side of your cheek. The colour should almost disappear into your natural skin tone
• Pay attention to undertones. Some have a more yellow-based beige undertone, while others have a more pinkish one. One will suit you more than the other.
• Trial and error. Try lots of different shades and brands. Eventually you will find the best match for you.

 APPLICATION

• Pick your application tool. Cosmetic Sponges, Wedges, Foundation Brushes, or your Fingers (clean ones!)
• Start with clean well moisturized skin. You may use a primer, although this step is optional. Primers help the foundation adhere to the skin, and last longer. It also helps it glide on more smoothly. (Smashbox and L'oreal make good ones)
• Dot the foundation along your forehead, nose cheeks and chin. With your tool, use circular strokes and blend all over the face. Blend into the hairline, and down unto the neck. You don't want any visible lines.
• Once well blended, you can set your foundation with a dusting of loose translucent powder. This helps the foundation last longer, and is especially great for those with more oily skin.

RANDOM TIPS



• If you find your formula too heavy, dampen your foundation sponge with a little water. This will give you a more sheer application.
• You can mix two foundations, to create your own personal shade. This is great for when your skin is a little darker or lighter than usual.
• If you find your foundation a bit dull or sallow looking, try adding a few drops of liquid highlighter or luminizer to your bottle. This will give u a subtle glow.
• Pay attention to expiry dates. Some have them printed on the bottle. If not the rule is generally toss it 6 to 12 months after opening. Also toss if you see a change in colour, smell, or if the liquid is separating. You don't need that yucky bacteria on your skin.

Cheers to putting your best face forward!!

~Genesis Girls