How to Choose Foundation or Base Makeup for Your Skin Type

Apply the correct foundation for a flawless-looking complexion.

Finding the appropriate foundation or base makeup for your skin type is crucial to a perfect finish and lasting power. Another sometimes neglected and important aspect of a proper foundation is one that will enhance the condition of your skin without makeup, and not cause blemishes, dryness or other skin problems.

Things You'll Need

• Facial cleanser
• Mirror
• Foundation samples and testers
• Makeup brush or sponge
• Foundation or base makeup

Instructions

Instructions

1. Wash your face and pat dry. Pay attention to your skin for the next 15 minutes to determine whether your skin feels dry, oily, a combination of both or normal.

2. Step outside and feel how your skin reacts to the present climate, as your foundation should be suited to the current weather conditions that you will be experiencing everyday.

3. Stare at your bare skin with a mirror in natural lighting to discover the color of your undertones, which will assist you when it is time to select a color of foundation.

4. Research ingredients to determine the appropriate ones for your skin type. Make a list of the suitable ingredients, along with comedogenic and noncomedogenic ingredients to take with you while shopping.

5. Find a store that provides foundation samples for you to try out before buying a full-sized product. Choose various brands of foundation that appear to accommodate your skin type and color.

6. Apply foundation with a makeup sponge and brush to determine the best tool for a flawless-looking base makeup. Look in the mirror and notice the coverage and texture of the particular formula you are testing.

7. View your skin with the help of a compact mirror throughout the day to evaluate the wear of the foundation. Enter rooms with distinctive lighting to figure out whether the color is an appropriate match.

8. Remove the base makeup and gaze at your skin in a mirror to look for irritation, redness, blemishes, dry patches or other issues that would imply your skin does not react well to that specific formula.

9. Test product samples until you find a foundation that is satisfactory to your needs.

Tips & Warnings

• Look for a foundation that contains sun protection.

• Comedogenic ingredients should be avoided by all skin types, especially those that are acne prone.

• Mineral foundation is a good option for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin.

• Cream and liquid foundations vary in their target skin type, as they may contain blemish-fighting ingredients, moisturizing mixtures or a little of both, making them an option for a variety of people.

• Tools include a makeup sponge or brush for base makeup application.

• Apply foundation in a downward motion, moving from the middle of your face outwards.

• To avoid potential allergic reactions or irritation on a large area, always test products on a small patch of skin before full use.

References

• Beauty and the Budget; Sandi Brenner; 2006
• The Makeup Artist Handbook; Techniques for Film, Television, Photography, and Theatre; Gretchen Davis and Mindy Hall; 2008
• Makeup Makeovers; Expert Secrets for Stunning Transformations; Robert Jones; 2005