Laying Your Foundation

The vast range of foundations available on beauty store shelves can sometimes be overwhelming. How do you know what type of foundation is right for you? I have always asked myself this question and decided to research all my options and find out the answer. Although I don't use foundation every day, I have experimented with every version over the years. 
This is a guide on how to find the best base to suit your skin type and coverage needs.

Concealers correct any minor and major imperfections you may have, from under-eye circles, blemishes, broken capillaries and redness. It is usually of a dense consistency and should ideally be a shade lighter than your foundation with a natural or yellowish undertone. Apply sparingly to the bridge and sides of your nose, under the eyes, and over any marks. If you are blessed with naturally flawless skin, you can skip out on this type of camouflage all together.

Good to Try: YSL Touche Eclat, Laura Mercier Secret Camouflauge, Benefit Boi~ing

Use a Tinted Moisturizer if you prefer very natural looking coverage. The sheer effect of a tinted moisturizer will even out your skin tone and provide just a hint of colour with a dewy glow. This lightweight formula lends hydration to dry and normal skin types and has the added benefit of a sunscreen. A tinted moisturizer is the perfect base for hot summer days, as it won't 'melt' off. Your CC (Colour Correcting) and BB (Beauty Balm) creams also fall into this category, which act as a multi-purpose, on-the-run, easy-to-apply makeup base.

Good to Try: Garnier Skin Renew BB Cream, Urban Decay Naked Skin Beauty Balm, The Balm BalmShelter Tinted Moisturizer, Lush Colour Supplement

 The most popular and versatile type of face paint is Liquid Foundation. Providing a radiant, smooth complexion, there is one available for every type of complexion. Liquid foundations revitalize tired skin and come in two varieties - a water based and an oil based formula. Chose an oil-rich moisturizing foundation if you have dry or mature skin, whereas a water-based matte fluid works better for oily and combination skin types. The creamy consistency is best applied with a makeup brush or a slightly damp sponge. Blend well to avoid any solid lines.

Good to Try: Smashbox Studio Skin Foundation, Chanel Vitalumiére Moisture Rich Fluid Makeup, Bobbi Brown Natural Finish Long Lasting Foundation.

 Mousse makeup is feathery light due to its velvety, whipped consistency. Essentially, mousse is liquid foundation that has been air-whipped and ideally suits normal, combination and drier skin types. This weightless formula imparts an air-brushed effect and blends in seamlessly for perfectly poreless skin. Found in a spray can or tub, mousse foundations can be applied in layers for better coverage and a smoother overall appearance.

Good to Try: Maybelline Dream Matte Mousse, L'Oreal Matte Morphose Foundation, 
Revlon PhotoReady Airbrush Makeup Mousse

 Cream and Cream-to-Powder Foundations are the ideal choice for normal to combination skin types. It allows for heavier coverage due to it's thicker, creamy texture, and hides flaws & conceals discoloration exceptionally well. Cream-to-powder foundations are applied as a liquid then settles into a matte powdery finish. Most cream foundations come in a compact form.

Good to Try: Guerlain Parure De Lumiére Cream Foundation, Elizabeth Arden Flawless Sponge-on Cream Makeup, Giorgio Armani Designer Shaping Cream Foundation

A Stick Foundation is a combination of a cream foundation and a concealer. Problem areas, scars & imperfections are easily camouflaged with its more solid , buildable consistency. This two-in-one wonder eliminates the need for a concealer. It provides a matte finish with full coverage. Due to its heavier appearance, it's not so suitable for everyday use. Steer clear of stick bases if you have oily skin, as it's thicker formula can lead to clogged pores. Blend well and apply in moderation, as stick foundations have a tendency to crease into lines.

Good to Try: Makeup Forever Pan Stick Foundation, Maybelline Fit Me Shine Free Foundation Stick, Shiseido Stick Foundation

Powder Foundation is the best option for those of us with oily skin. On dry skin, it can appear too flaky, as it doesn't have much moisture content. Powders keep grease at bay, absorbing excess oil and reducing shine. If you have sensitive skin, a mineral based product may work best for you. Pressed powders are quick and easy to apply. Use a powder brush for a lighter coverage. For a more medium mask, apply with a damp sponge. Loose powders are used to 'set' your foundation or concealer and relays a silky finish.

Good to Try: MAC Mineralize Powder Foundation , Benefit Hello Flawless Powder Foundation, Dior Diorskin Natural Glow Powder

Have you found your perfect foundation?

Which one do you use?