>Tips & Trends

Foundation Makeup

There are hundreds of different kinds of foundations, with new ones available almost weekly. With new technology such as this constantly emerging, the art and science of foundations seems to be perpetually evolving.

Healthy skin is supposed to look dewy, moist, and plump. But not everyone favors that look, especially if they have oily or acne type skin. Foundations can make your skin appear dewy or void of oil. Here are the basic types of foundations:

  • Liquid foundations offer a wide variety of coverage and are the most popular. These are made for every skin type. They can be oil free or moisturizing.
  • Powder foundations come in a portable compact, don't spill, and can give your skin a powdery matte finish.
  • Matte foundations mask the appearance of oily skins and often contain oil absorbing ingredients.
  • Pancake foundations are rich, creamy formulas that offer more coverage and make the skin appear moist and dewy.
  • Light diffusing foundations use light reflecting particles to camouflage pigmentation and fine wrinkles. They also give your skin an added glow and radiance.
  • Loose mineral powders are applied with a brush. Many are often packed in a convenient brush dispenser. They are light diffusing and give your skin a warm glow and are typically free of allergens and chemicals that can cause irritation.
  • Sheer tints like pink and apricot offer just a touch of color. They're not skin toned, bet they give a lift to your face. Don't use them as moisturizers. Instead, apply these foundations over your moisturizer.
  • Tinted moisturizers give a very light, transparent finish. Even though they are labled as moisturizers, use a standard moisturizer before applying. Otherwise you are applying color directly into your pores, which you definitely don't want to do. As the foundation moves amd migrates during the day, you could end up looking as if you painted dots on your pores.
  • As you can tell, you have plenty of choices for foundation. Be sure to sample several different types to make sure you purchase the type that works best for you. You may even want to purchase a couple different types for different occasions, such as one with heavier coverage for evenings out and a light diffusing foundation for the office.

    Things to remember:

    Prepare your skin for foundation by cleansing, toning, and moisturizing first.

    Foundation will not cover up blemishes, and if that is a concern, you may need to use a concealer.

    Apply foundation carefully with a light hand to obtain the glow and radiance you want.

    Selecting a foundation is hard work, so be prepared to spend enough time to find the right shade and brand for you.

    Color, or foundation, give a polished finishing touch to your face that lets your skin shine through.