How to Apply Foundation to Dark Skin

Black women may have to mix together two shades of foundation to get the right color match.

Foundation makeup creates a flawless canvas on the face. If your foundation is applied well, it can provide a natural, shine-free look. If foundation is badly applied, it can appear as a cakey mask. Also, liquid foundation must be a match for your skin color, type and tone. Applying foundation to dark skin can be challenging simply because it's harder to find a color match. If the foundation is too dark, or too light, it will be very apparent and unflattering.

Things You'll Need

• Moisturizer
• Makeup sponge
• Foundation
• Tissue

Instructions

1. Apply a daytime moisturizer to the skin using your fingers. It's optimal to use moisturizer that contains sunscreen of at least SPF 20 to provide sun protection. Allow the moisturizer to absorb for approximately five minutes.

2. Pour or squeeze foundation onto a makeup sponge. Use the sponge to apply dots of foundation all over your face. If you are mixing two colors of foundation together, which is commonly done by people with dark skin to obtain the right color, mix the colors together in your hand and dab the sponge into it.

3. Use the sponge to spread the foundation on your face. Use a sweeping motion across the face and dab it against areas of your skin that need more coverage. Make sure to blend the foundation into your skin. Use the sponge upward and downward. Pay attention to spots such as nasal folds and your chin, as foundation can accumulate there.

4. Blot your face with a tissue after applying liquid foundation. This will soak up remaining oils and moisture from your skin.

Tips & Warnings

• To make foundation easier to apply, try adding a drop of water to it right before applying it to the skin.

References

• Woman Junction: How to Apply Foundation on Dark Skin
• Girl Talks: Makeup Tips for Dark Skin