Foundation is a type of makeup that is designed to match your skin to create an even, uniform-colored complexion. Just like the name suggests, it's the base upon which you build your entire makeup look and it comes in different formats and formulas to suit specific purposes.
Uses for Foundation
Every foundation has a job to do when it comes to your skin. Most people apply it solely to their face, but it can also be used down your neck and on other areas of your body.
To Serve as a Makeup Base
If you want to use foundation simply to give yourself a blank canvas upon which to apply the rest of your makeup, you should consider investing in a BB cream. This is a blemish balm (BB) with a creamy formulation used to even out the skin tone, which is light in texture.
For a Flawless Finish
For those who are experiencing patches of redness or discoloration, opt for a full coverage foundation to give you a smooth and breathtaking finish.
To Hide Blemishes
If you struggle with acne or regular pimple breakouts, a full or medium-coverage foundation can help you conceal a multitude of sins. Use it alongside your concealer to cover any flaws.
To Control Oily Skin
Some foundations can counter-balance oily skin with their matte, oil-free formulas. They control shine, are water-resistant, and offer complete coverage to hide any imperfections.
To Hydrate Skin
Similarly, you can moisturize your skin as you're wearing makeup through foundations that are specially designed to hydrate your pores. They tend to contain ingredients like vitamin E and aloe vera that work together to nourish and protect your face.
For Anti-Aging
There are also foundations available that glide effortlessly over the skin to deliver instant age-and-pore correcting perfection. As well as helping to eliminate visible lines and wrinkles, they provide all-day coverage.
To Provide Sun Protection
A lot of foundations nowadays contain SPF so that you can wear them in the sun. However, they shouldn't be used solely as a substitute for your sunscreen; rather, as extra protection.
To Alter Your Skin Tone
If you want to look authentically sun-kissed without visiting the beach or applying spray-on tan, you can choose a foundation that is a couple of shades darker than your natural skin tone for a warm, dewy glow.
Finding Your Format
Foundation is currently available to purchase in many formats, which you may choose based on skin type, specialized needs such as hyperpigmentation or rosacea, or to correct skin issues.
Liquid
This format is perfect for normal to dry skin. Avoid choosing a matte finish if you have dry skin as it can exaggerate flakiness and make it look more noticeable. If you have oily skin, opt for an oil-free formula, otherwise, your skin can appear overly greasy.
Cream
Creams tend to be in the whipped or mousse format. They're a good choice for those with dry or mature skin because they have a little air whipped into them, which makes them both easy to apply and lightweight to wear.
Stick
This format is best suited to normal skin. Sticks can heavily clog pores, which is not ideal for oily skin that's susceptible to breakouts. Similarly, sticks sit on the surface, which might exaggerate the appearance of dry, flaky skin.
Powder
Powder comes in two different formats: pressed powder and loose powder. Pressed powder is ideal for those with normal to oily or combination skin as they provide a smooth finish and help to control shine. Loose powder can be a little more drying. However, both options are great for makeup beginners as they're very light and easy to apply.
Choosing Your Shade
To find the right shade for you, follow these simple steps:
- Test a small amount of color on the back of your hand.
- Wait a few minutes for it to absorb.
- Find some natural lighting and check if the shade is a match for your natural skin tone.
Achieving the Perfect Base
Foundation may have its many uses, but it's mainly about achieving a flawless base for the rest of your makeup. From concealing blemishes to hydrating your skin, there are a variety of formulas and formats available to suit your specific needs. Simply shop around and experiment with different options to find the perfect foundation for your skin.
