PREP IS KEY
The absolute most important step you can take before starting your foundation is to cleanse, tone, and moisturize suited to your skin type. It’s way harder and a lot more work to have beautiful makeup without beautiful skin – and your makeup will last you much longer.
USE THE CORRECT COLOR
I personally think a wrong foundation color can ruin an entire makeup look. Click here to read my post on tips on how to choose your correct shade match.
CHOOSE THE CORRECT FORMULA
Use a hydrating or dewy formula for dry skin to keep your skin plump and glowy without accentuating any dry patches on the skin. Use a matte finish for oily skin to keep your makeup long lasting and prevent it from breaking down throughout the day.
CHOOSE YOUR APPLICATION TECHNIQUE
A damp beauty blender works really well to apply foundation for dry skin. It also creates a more natural coverage and may sheer out foundation more than a brush would. Using a brush will give you fuller coverage. I prefer to use round, dense, fluffier brushes such as the It Cosmetics Ultimate Complexion brush in a stippling motion to really meld the foundation into my skin and get all the coverage I need.
USE CONCEALER FOR EXTRA COVERAGE
If you have some breakouts or problem areas, start with a thin layer of foundation and spot conceal the areas that need more coverage. This prevents your foundation from looking to cakey and gives you a more natural and flawless look.
SET YOUR FACE PROPERLY
Use a translucent powder to set your foundation to keep it lasting all day. Pay extra attention to your t-zone – its the area that gets the most oily for most people. If you’re super oily try baking to keep your complexion extra long lasting. And don’t fret if you over powder – spritz yourself with your favorite setting spray to help everything melt back together again.
DON’T FORGET YOUR NECK
Arguably the most important rule out of all of them. For a flawless blend, always bring your foundation down your neck.