How to Apply Base Make Up

For perfect foundation application, one must consider several important factors: is the skin well prepped for the makeup application and does the foundation color blend in well with the skin tone of the chin/neck area?

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Liquid Makeup or Cream Foundation
• Sponge or Cotton Ball
• Moisturizer
• Optional: Finishing Powder (loose)

1. 
    
   Clean and well hydrated skin is very important!

   The most important thing that must be done to make base/foundation look its best is to properly prepare the skin prior to makeup application. The face should be well cleansed and dried, if necessary apply an astringent or clarifier to remove dead skin, and apply moisturizer. Even if you already have oily skin, a moisturizer for oily skin is helpful. Allow the skin to dry between steps and prior to foundation application.

2. Many cosmetic lines, such as Mary Kay, Clinique, and L'Oreal have great microdermabrasion products which help to remove the dead skin. It is harmless and can also help with the wrinkle war. Just don't forget to re-hydrate your skin after treatment.

3. 
    
   Choose the right foundation color with SPF!

   Another very important factor to consider is how well your foundation blends in with the skin tone of the areas around your face. DO NOT TRY TO USE YOUR HAND OR ARM TO SELECT YOUR FOUNDATION! Testing it on your hand or arm is a big no-no! Why? The skin on your arm is more weathered, which means that it has more sun damage than your face, is often drier than your face, the color is usually very different (darker), and the skin texture is nowhere near as soft as your face. When matching your foundation to your skin tone, it should be applied/tested on your face or neck area. I also suggest using a foundation with SPF to protect your skin.

4. Once your face is clean and dry, you can begin to apply your foundation. Begin in the center of the face, working your way outward toward your hairline and ears and neck. Be sure to apply evenly all over the face and smooth out any lines or clumps. It is also a good idea to try to blend your foundation in underneath the the chin and jaw area.

5. Next, the proper matching of your foundation color will help to reduce a visible line between your foundation and your neck. Nothing is more unattractive than a woman who has a visible line where her foundation ends, either from improper application or from choosing a foundation that is too dark for the rest of her face/neck area. This is a very common makeup application booboo and it is very hard to see it on yourself.

6. Another important step is to use either a cosmetic sponge (preferable) or a cotton ball to blend in the foundation around the chin/jaw area where your face ends and your neck begins. This helps with the visible line problem and keeps the foundation looking natural.

7. 
    
   Finish off with a sealing powder!

   Lastly, once you are finished applying all of your color products and mascara, you may want to go back and, using a brush, lightly brush on some loose powder over your makeup. This steps seals your makeup, helps to absorb excess oils in your face or the makeup, and gives your face a little extra glow or healthy sheen. Try to match your powder and foundation as closely as possible. You will love the difference that the loose powder makes. If you like a little shimmer, you can use a loose powder that has an added shimmer to it.

8. Now that you look natural and beautiful, go out and knock their socks off!! Oh, yeah, and don't forget the lipstick!

Tips & Warnings

• If you have scars or skin discolorations, it is best to apply a concealer to these areas. Generally, you would just choose from ivory, beige, or a darker shade. Use your best judgement based on your skin color. Just apply a tiny amount to each spot then pat it on and around the spot. Be sure to blend it in well and don't rub it--pat it.