Marina and the Diamonds said this, “I love natural beauty, and it’s your best look. But I think makeup as an artist is so transformative”.
Yes, your face is like a canvas that already has a beautiful painting. Makeup can enhance it or spoil it. It all depends on which makeup you use and how you use it.
But when it comes to finding the right foundation, the task can be an absolute nightmare. There are so many different formulas, ingredients, and textures out there, the choices can be overwhelming. Foundations and concealers are probably the toughest makeup products to buy.
If you’re on the quest for the perfect full coverage foundation you’ve come to the right place. Read this ultimate guide below, and you can “makeup” your mind and find the best foundation for you.
Are you ready? Let’s glow!
The Ultimate Goal
If you’re a bare face beauty, good for you. But most aren’t blessed with flawless skin. That’s where foundations and concealers come in.
You’ve, no doubt, seen the awkward photos of women wearing mismatched makeup that’s not blended properly or is the wrong shade. But the aim of foundation makeup isn’t to change your skin’s tone or color.
The ultimate goal is to find a foundation that looks exactly like your own skin, but flawless.
50 Shades of Foundation
Thanks to Rihanna there are now many of shades of foundation to choose from. While this is a blessing for those with uncommon skin types, it can make the process a bit more difficult. But when you do eventually find that perfect shade, your skin will look fantastic.
The shade you choose should be slightly lighter than your skin tone as the color will shift through the day. This is due to the natural oxidation of your skin when your foundation mixes with the oils on your face. If it seems too light, you can always warm it up with bronzer.
You can test for shades by swatching foundations and concealers on your forearm. But your forearm skin can be a lot darker than your face, leaving you mismatched. Another place to try is your chest, but the best place to test foundation is on your actual face.
Whichever method you choose, make sure to test the foundation in natural lighting. Or you may end up looking like Ronald McDonald, or worse!
Respect Your Complexion
Don’t fight against your skin’s natural undertones. Remember, the ultimate goal is to find a foundation that looks like your skin. If you don’t, you may have to color correct which can be a recipe for disaster if you don’t have the skills.
If you have a warm complexion, pick a shade with yellow undertones. If you have a cool complexion, choose a foundation with pink undertones. If your skin is neutral, gold undertones are a safe choice.
Makeup, Don’t Cakeup
Does your makeup feel heavy on your face? Or does it not give the flawless finish you were aiming for? Understanding the coverage levels of foundation makeup can help you to find the best foundation for your skin.
There are two main kinds of coverage for your foundation makeup:
- Sheer to medium coverage. You can see your skin through this coverage. It’s light, but buildable if you want a heavier look.
- Full coverage. Long-wear foundation that doesn’t need touch-ups midday. It can be heavy on certain skin types but can keep the oily look under control.
Remember that no matter which foundation coverage you choose, you will need to use concealer to cover up blemishes. For instance, dark circles, scars or pimples. The aim of the foundation is to even out the skin tone, not to cover up imperfections.
You’re Not My Type
Now you know your skin tone and complexion, what about your skin type? Is it sensitive or aging? Acne-prone or oily?
Knowing your skin type will help you to narrow down the list of foundations and concealers you’re searching through.
Foundations and Concealers for Acne-Prone Skin
If you have acne-prone skin you need to find the right balance between covering up without clogging up your pores. It’s recommended to use a medium to full coverage of a sheer foundation. Use concealer to cover up the blemishes instead of the foundation.
And always make sure to use a clean brush or sponge for every application.
Best Foundations for Oily Skin
Everyone wants a glow, but nobody wants an oily face. If your face shines as bright as the sun, choose a medium to full coverage foundation. Oil-free formulas can help you to avoid the shiny look too.
When applying your foundation makeup, don’t use your fingers as they may transfer more oil to your face.
Best Full Coverage Foundation for Dry Skin
On the other end of the scale, if your skin is dry you need to quench your skin throughout the day. Use a light coverage foundation that includes hydrating elements in the formula.
Best Foundation for Aging Skin
Heavy foundations and concealers can emphasize your fine lines and wrinkles. Avoid powders and opt for a light coverage liquid foundation instead. You may even be able to get away with just using a tinted moisturizer for luminous looking skin.
Best Foundations for Sensitive Skin
Avoid heavy skin products that include fragrances. Mineral foundations are usually a safe bet. As with acne-prone skin, always be sure you use a clean brush or sponge when applying your foundation makeup.
Foundation Makeup for Combination Skin
Most have combination skin which can change throughout the year, depending on the season. Matte foundations and concealers will keep your oily T-zone in check. Use highlighters to give yourself a glow.
Whichever foundation makeup you choose, it’s all about finding the perfect balance. Dermacol has totally nailed it with the “world’s best full coverage foundation”.
Full Coverage Foundation for the Win
As you can see, finding a full coverage foundation that matches your unique skin isn’t as easy as you think. You need to know your skins type, tone, shade, and more.
Even if you use the best foundation, nothing’s going to look good if the skin underneath is in bad condition. You need proper nutrition, hydration, and a great skincare routine to make your skin a silky canvas for your foundation makeup.
But how do you know if your skincare routine is actually working? Click here to find out the secret.
