Foundation mishaps such as blotches and streaks, can be quite embarrassing especially when you leave half your face on someone you’ve just greeted. Have you ever looked at your face after a day out and wondered why it looks so greasy. If you have dry skin, are there parts of your skin that are peeling or appear ashen? Or does your foundation tend to disappear from your face by the end of the day? Regardless of your skin type, we all want our skin to look flawless, without looking “made-up”. Here are some tips for perfect, lasting foundation.
Exfoliate
Cleanse and exfoliate your skin to get rid of any dead or dry skin, leaving a clean smooth canvas. Bicarbonate of soda works really well as it leaves your skin feeling super smooth. Just mix a little bicarbonate of soda with a few drops of water and scrub. Rub an ice cube on your face to minimise the appearance of your pores, and pat dry with a towel.
Moisturise
Use your usual face cream to lock in moisture and protect your skin. For oily skin, use an oil-free moisturiser or you may use primer alone.
Prime
Primers create a flawless base and help your makeup stay on. Apply a small amount all over your face, avoiding the area around your lips.
Powder
Use a brush to apply loose powder all over your face. Use loose powder not pressed powder. Powder will provide a small amount of coverage and lock in moisture.
Foundation
Add a drop of oil into your liquid or cream foundation. You may use jojoba, olive, or any oil that you would use on your face. Apply your foundation on top of the powder. This may sound odd, however, the powder allows the foundation to stick onto the face. The oil will change the consistency of the foundation making your skin glow. It will also make your skin look natural rather than made up. Your makeup won’t appear “cakey” or oily.
Set
If you have oily skin, apply loose or setting powder along the T-zone. This creates a perfect base. Continue with the rest of your makeup as usual.
If your skin is very dry, you may skip the fourth step. Let us know which foundation tips have worked for you. Be sure to experiment with different formulations of foundation until you find one you are most comfortable with - powder, liquid, cream to powder, or mousse.