We’re always searching for techniques that can help us achieve a flawless and glowing look. And for the holy grail of makeup saviours, there are two essentials that beauty buffs have in their arsenal at all times: a good foundation and primer.
Every makeup look starts with a good foundation, both literally and figuratively. Choosing the correct base will make all the difference in creating a radiant look that lasts all day. But with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming trying to find a product that is the perfect fit for you. That’s why we’ve put together this step-by-step guide that’ll take your beauty base to the next level. Learn how to find the perfect foundation, the best application techniques and how to get the most out of your product, so you can achieve a flawless finish that lasts all day.
The Importance of a good foundation
Foundation is the base for the rest of your makeup, creating a smooth canvas for your other products to glide on effortlessly. It also helps cover imperfections, making your skin appear more even-toned and radiant. But foundation can also be a double-edged sword if the wrong formula is used incorrectly.
Here’s how to avoid any foundation mishaps:
1. Why Cleansing & Moisturising Is Key
Cleansing your face before applying foundation removes dirt, oil, and impurities from your skin. By cleansing your face, you’re creating a clean surface, which is imperative for a flawless base. Then apply a gentle moisturiser to lock-in hydration. This crucial step will help your skin achieve a natural, youthful glow while preventing your foundation from drying out.
These two steps work together to help create a hydrated and even surface for your products to glide on effortlessly. If you have oily skin, look for a lightweight, oil-free moisturiser so you’re not adding excess oil into your routine. If you have dry skin, look for a richer, hydrating moisturiser to revitalise a dehydrated appearance.
2. Primer Time
Primers are heavyweights in the skin preparation step, minimising pores, increasing hydration and smoothing texture. They work together to create the perfect base for make-up application, and the effects of this product help you achieve that ‘airbrush’ coverage look we all love.
A good primer can also help with oil control, preventing the foundation from transferring, boosting its durability and coverage. Explore Napoleon Perdis’ primers, which pair perfectly with and will extend the wear of your foundation.
3. How To Choose The Right Foundation For Your Skin Type
When it comes to choosing a foundation, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, your skin type. Do you have dry, oily, or combination skin? This will determine the formula of foundation that will work best for you. There is a range of foundation types with options for all skin types, from liquid foundations, which have a lightweight coverage for a natural look, or stronger foundations for a more full-coverage, matte finish.
Best Foundation For Oily Skin:
If you have oily skin, you’ll want a foundation that helps control shine and won’t clog your pores. Oil-free, matte-finish foundations are a great option, as they can help keep your skin looking matte all day long and prevent breakouts. Some ingredients to look for in foundations for oily skin include salicylic acid, which can help unclog pores, and silica, which helps absorb oil. When choosing a foundation for oily skin, be sure to look for one that is long-wearing and transfer-resistant so it stays put throughout the day.
Best Foundation For Dry & Sensitive Skin:
If you have dry or sensitive skin, you’ll want to look for a foundation that provides hydration and won’t cause any irritation. Look for foundations that contain moisturising ingredients, like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides. These components can help hydrate and protect your skin. Avoid foundations with ingredients that could cause irritation, such as fragrances, essential oils, or alcohol.
Best Foundation For Combination Skin:
If you have combination skin, you’ll want a foundation that can balance your skin’s oiliness and dryness without causing further problems. Look for lightweight, buildable coverage foundations that are oil-free and non-comedogenic, which means they won’t clog your pores. Consider a foundation that contains skincare ingredients that can improve skin texture and tone, such as vitamins, antioxidants, or fruit extracts. When applying foundation to combination skin, you can use different formulas in different areas of your face. For example, you might use a matte finish foundation on oily areas and a hydrating foundation on dry areas.
Whether you are looking for a lightweight, natural finish or full coverage, explore Napoleon Perdis’ foundations, with a wide range of foundation shades and formulas to suit all skin types and tones.
4. How To Choose The Ideal Foundation Shade
Another critical thing to consider when shopping for foundation is your skin tone. There are three main categories: cool, warm, and neutral. Cool skin tones have pink, red, or bluish undertones; warm skin tones have yellow, peachy, or golden undertones; neutral skin tones combine both.
Once you know your skin tone, find a foundation that matches your cool, warm or neutral appearance. This will help the product blend seamlessly into your skin, avoiding harsh lines and colour mismatches.
Foundations pair the same tonal variations that our skin has, so follow the same colour themes when finding the perfect product for yourself. It’s always best to test swatch the foundation shade against your jawline to see if it’s too orange, green or pink against your skin tone. And remember, you can also mix-and-match products to create a unique shade that’s customised to you!
5. How to Apply Foundation: Expert Tips to Master Foundation Application
Tools and brushes are just as important as the foundation itself. Use a flat foundation brush to buff out the product, starting in the centre of your face and gently blending outwards.
Build up coverage gradually. Start with a light foundation layer and add more product as needed. This will help you avoid a cakey, unnatural finish! Finish with a translucent setting powder and spray to help your base last all day.
Achieving a Flawless Look with the Right Foundation
Now you know the secrets to achieve flawless, radiant makeup that lasts all day. Start using these tips in your makeup routine, and you’ll be glowing in no time.