3. Apply for natural results
Although most foundation rookies run into trouble when it comes to shade or formula, how you apply the makeup can mean the difference between looking good and looking so good your friends and spouse shower you with compliments. Follow these easy steps:
- Start with fresh skin. Always wash and moisturize your skin first. Give your moisturizer about a minute to absorb before applying foundation.
- Use only where needed. With liquid or stick foundation, place a few dots where you see discoloration. If you use powder, concentrate only on the parts where skin seems uneven. The most common spots are cheeks, around your nose and on your chin. "If any area doesn't need coverage, such as your forehead, skip it," says Ildiko. "Targeted spot application looks the most natural." Then, blend it outward toward your hairline and jaw.
- Blend liquid and stick foundation. You can use your fingers, but a damp sponge dilutes the makeup slightly, giving you sheerer, lighter coverage.
- Use a Kabuki brush for powder formulas. Kabuki brushes are soft and fluffy, similar in shape to a men's shaving cream brush. To use it, dip the tips of bristles into the powder, then tap them against the jar's edge to shake off excess. Next, press the bristle tips flat against skin and blend in the foundation using a circular motion.
- Add more if necessary. Always apply less makeup than you think you need and build up to the coverage that looks best. It's easy to apply more; removing excess is time-consuming and frustrating.
4. Set your makeup
Lightly dust on translucent powder to help the foundation stay in place. However, skip this step if you have very dry skin or use a powder foundation: Your makeup is less likely to shift or wear off, so you don't need powder.
