How to choose the right foundation

Choosing the right foundation is easier these days as many companies offer a foundation quiz that helps you find the perfect shade and coverage. Also, in many beauty stores the staff has all the knowledge and tools to help you. But if you prefer to do figure it out on your own, here are a few things that you have to pay attention to:

Tips by makeup artist, Viktoria Vlasenko

1. Don’t try shades on your hands, they’re not the same color as your face. Pick at least 3 colors that you think would suit you and try them on your jawline, which is the best place to see if the color matches your neck and your cheeks.

2. Moisturize before you try the foundation just as you would prep your skin normally for makeup (Check how to prep your skin - article here). This way you will see how the foundation really ‘behaves’.

3. Wait for the foundation to dry. Many foundations are oxidizing which means they get darker over time. Check out how the color has changed after 10-15 minutes.

4. Check the color in natural light. Your foundation will look very different in the artificial store light than in natural daylight.   

5. Decide what coverage you need. If you like natural makeup or you don’t have skin issues use the lightest coverage possible for daytime and light/medium coverage for nighttime when you use stronger makeup. If you have skin problems and/or you want long-lasting makeup you’ll need full-coverage. 

6. To pick the right finish you have to understand your skin type. For oily and combination skin use oil-free, water-based foundation that has a matte finish. For normal to dry skin pick a dewy finish that gives a glow to the skin. A satin finish is good for all skin types, and works very well on mature skin.

7. One more thing – you need at least two types of foundation throughout the year as the seasons change. For summer lighter foundation is recommended, for winter something heavier.

Texture guide:

Liquid foundation: This is a very popular formula that is designed to blend into your skin smoothly, creating a flawless finish. Oftentimes it has ‘extras’ such as SPF for sun protection and built-in moisturizer. It comes in a wide range of coverage levels from light to full coverage. Liquid foundation can be both oil- and water-based, so it can work on all skin types. Tip: If you have dry skin it is a good idea to pick foundation with a built-in moisturizer. 

Cream foundation: Works well for those who want medium-to-full coverage, and have dry skin.

Stick foundation: There are brands that offer light-coverage sticks but this formula typically gives more coverage, medium to full, and can serve as a concealer. This foundation works best on normal and non-oily skin but again there brands that can be used in oily or combination skin and use depends on how you prep your skin and what primer you use.

Powder foundation: This is a dry formula made from pigments and minerals that come in a pressed or loose powder. It can give light to full coverage, depending on the application. This foundation is great for oily skin as the powder absorbs excess oil, and it can be a good choice if you tend to sweat a lot. Additionally, if you are a fan of natural cosmetics, there are plenty of mineral powders on the market that don’t have any harsh chemical ingredients. 

Each type of foundation can be applied with different tools and different ways. The next Beauty Visions article is all about foundation application.