1. Decide Which Formula is Right for You

Foundation comes in a variety of forms. The most popular are liquid, cream and powder. Liquid is probably the easiest to work with and can work for every skin type. Cream is often chosen for dry skin and powder is versatile but works really well for oily or acne prone skin. Decide what foundation you feel most comfortable working with.

2. Consider Your Specific Skin Care Needs

Before you shop for foundation you need to consider your specific skin care needs. Is your skin oily or dry? Do you have sensitive skin? Is acne an issue for you? All of those are questions to think over before you choose a foundation so you’re sure your selection will address your skin care needs.

3. Decide How Much Coverage You Want

Different foundations offer different coverage. It’s important to decide if you want light, medium or full coverage. If you have even skin with few blemishes then you may feel comfortable in light coverage. If you have more blemishes or uneven skin tone may want a fuller coverage. I typically choose a foundation with medium coverage.

4. Choose a Shade

This’s probably the most difficult part. Testing a foundation on your neck is going to give you the best results other than on your actual bare face. Be sure to look at it in natural light as well as interior light. If you end up with a foundation that you don’t feel is right for you then return it. Most stores will allow you to return makeup, even if you’ve tried it.

4. Use a Primer for Best Results

Always use a makeup primer before applying your foundation. It will give your foundation a smoother finish as well as giving it staying power. Your foundation will last much longer if you apply a thin layer of primer underneath. Make sure that you give your primer a few minutes to dry before applying your foundation. There’re primers in all price ranges so you’re sure to find one that fits your budget.

5. Apply Your Favorite Way

There’s no one exact way that foundation must be applied. Everyone has their own technique. The three most common ways to apply it are with your fingers, a foundation brush or a sponge. Most people start at the top of their face and work their way down. It’s best to start with a light layer and build until you have the amount of coverage you prefer.

6. Blend Away Any Lines

Don’t commit this makeup faux pas! Makeup lines take away from the beauty you’re trying to create. Make sure that you always blend your foundation in rather than just stopping it abruptly. If makeup lines are still an issue even after efforts to blend them in then you may be wearing the wrong shade. A shade that’s too dark won’t blend into your skin.

7. Set with Powder

Lastly, you want to set your foundation. Liquid and cream foundations both have a wet finish. Brushing a bit of powder over them will help them to set in place for the day. It only takes a small amount of powder to do this. Be careful not to use too much or it can settle into fine lines on your face.

These’re 7 tips to help with foundation when it’s new to you. Did this article give you the information you were hoping for? What other questions do you still have?