Find the right match
The most important part?of choosing a foundation?is knowing your skin type?and what you want from a foundation. This will help you choose a formula, finish and the perfect shade for you.
Ask yourself three critical questions: is my skin oily,?dry, sensitive, combination?or normal? What finish do?I want? How long do I need?it to last? Once you have?the answers, you can start the shopping process. Give yourself time, collect samples, ask the beauty consultant questions, take samples home and try them in natural light and different environments to put them to the test.
Try:
· Urban Decay All Nighter Longwear Foundation, R515
· Revlon Colorstay Full Cover Foundation, R179
· NYX Total Control Drop Foundation, R230
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Invest in the right tools
Should you use a make-up tool or your fingers to apply your foundation? Both work. It’s a simple matter of preference. Even the pros work products in with their fingers as the warmth from the tips heats creams, liquids and powders and smooth them on better. However, the oil on your skin might cause the formula to break down, which is why most people champion using tools as applicators.
Brushes are great for mousses, creams and liquids and powders. When it comes to tinted moisturisers, we recommend using your fingers. When using stick concealers and foundations, swipe the product directly onto the skin, then smooth and blend with a make-up sponge or beauty blender.
Prep and prime
In preparation for a smooth and even complexion you literally need to lay the right foundation. The skin needs to be properly cleansed, treated and moisturised.
This is how to layer your skin:?cleanse your face and apply a toner (if you choose to use one), follow up with a serum moisturiser (preferably with spf), if not, top up with sunscreen.?Then apply a primer to allow your foundation to go on smoother and last longer.
There are many primers on the market, some address skin concerns like acne, dehydrated skin, large pores, uneven skin tone and fine lines.?it’s always best to use one that will not only give you the benefits of a primer but combat your flaws as well.
Try: MAC Prep + Prime Fix + Goldlite, R325
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Set ‘n go
The perfect face is one that you don’t need?to touch-up at any point of the day. You can achieve this if you set your make-up well. Cream and liquid formulas must be set with a powder to avoid smudging and moving. Get a fluffy powder brush for loose and compact powders. For powder foundations use a denser brush, the kabuki brush works wonders.
Coverage
What are you trying to conceal? Blemishes, acne scarring and hyperpigmentation might need a little more product than usual. Using a buildable foundation when you’re faced with severe marks is frustrating. Go with full coverage formulas that will let you to use very little product to get full-on coverage. If the foundation is still not giving you the finish you want, go over the problem areas with a concealer then blend with foundation and set with powder. Buildable formulas are great for ladies who just want to achieve an overall even complexion.
