Have you perfected the art of foundation?
Jenna shares her expertise and insider secrets on how to get the best out of your foundation, she says:
"Choosing a foundation can be intimidating, as selecting the most suitable formulation involves many variables - texture, consistency, shade and these days - the added benefits."
Which Formula?
Focusing on what you want from a foundation should be the first priority. Since everyone's skin is different - its important to pick a texture and consistency that works for your specific needs. For example, if you have very dry skin you might want to consider a cream or liquid foundation and avoid powder formulas altogether. If you are looking to simply even out your complexion without too much coverage, you want to avoid full coverage foundations and gravitate towards a tinted moisturiser. If you have slight redness in certain areas, you can focus on masking just the redness rather than covering everything with concealer.
I gravitate towards foundations that provide a more natural finish where I can control the level of natural vs matte by using powder. Getting someone's complexion to the point where it looks naturally flawless is what I strive for. A bit too much coverage can look overdone and too little might not look polished enough, so I slowly build until I achieve the desired coverage."
Which shade?
"Shade selection is the most important factor in choosing a foundation. No matter the formula, if the colour is wrong you really cant hide it! Its also vital to take a close look at the shade on your own and in various lighting situations. Pay attention to the colour of your face in relationship to your body - specifically the shoulders and chest - the areas closest to the face. Also, go into the bright daylight as its the best light to decide whether the shade, texture and finish provide the complexion you're looking for."
Should age be considered when choosing a foundation?
"The same rules apply to choosing a foundation - you know what your goals are and choose a foundation that helps you with the problems you have with your skin. No matter your age there is a foundation that is best suited for you at this time in your life. A teenager might not be ready for Repairwear Laser Focus All-Smooth Makeup SPF15 but Anti-Blemish Solutions Liquid Makeup may be the perfect fit. In three years it will be different but thats because you change, your skin changes, and you have to make adjustments as those changes happen."
What to consider for mature skin
"When working around fine lines and wrinkles, application is vital. You should avoid using extra product close to fine lines and makeup can settle within them, highlighting them even more. After applying foundation, take a dry makeup brush and blend over these areas to remove the extra product to keep it from settling. I encourage lightly powdering the skin to help set foundation and keep it stable."
Different foundations for winter and summer
"As much as you protect your skin with SPF between winter and summer there will most likely be a difference in skin tone between the two seasons. I always recommend having two shades of foundation on hand at all times. An alternative is to have a standard base shade and use something to darken your winter shade during the summertime. I recommend blending a product like Uplighting Liquid Illuminator with your winter foundation shade to transition you into the summer season."
Foundations with SPF
"I highly recommend using foundations with SPF. It will help protect you from the sun on a daily basis, therefore working to prevent dark spots, fine lines ad wrinkles by overall UV damage from occurring in the first place. Just as treatment foundations should not replace your normal treatment products, foundations with SPF should not replace your normal sun block routine."
Is loose or pressed powder best after foundation?
"Applying powder after foundation will help your foundation stay longer and provide an added protection against shine. Whether using pressed or loose, I suggest using a brush so you are able to work it into the skin as best as possible rather than have it lying on top. I love using the Bronzer/Blender Brush to apply powder. It allows me to powder the whole face quickly and evenly.
Tips for highlighting
"Highlighter can be used in many different ways. I love to add a touch of "realness" to the skin after foundation by applying a dab of highlighter to the highest part of the cheekbones, the bow of the lip and the bridge of the nose. I've found that Uplighting Liquid Illuminator in Natural works well on many skin tones."
Common application mistakes
"Too much product too soon - It is essential to gradually build up to the coverage that is needed. Start with minimal product and then work your way up.
Not blending enough - Be sure to blend the product into your skin to the point where it becomes your skin, rather than sits on top.
Using dirty applicators - Use disposable sponges or be sure to clean your brushes with cleaner regularly."
Tagged in Beauty Tips Skin makeup