The road to discovering the perfect type of foundation for your specific skin type is a rocky one. Oftentimes, it can feel like a giant game of trial and error due to the endless amounts of options to choose from. With the ideal outcome being a natural and flawless finish, arriving at this conclusion can take some research and experimentation before nailing down what works best for your attributes. Here is some advice to finding the right foundation and keeping your skin happy:
Listen to its needs
Anyone who has ever tried to hunt for the right foundation can attest to the seemingly infinite options for skin coverage. The different creams, liquids, mousse, powders, and sticks can send any formula-seeking customer into panic mode. However, knowing what you are getting yourself into is half the battle; the other half is knowing exactly what your specific skin type calls for. If you battle with problematic skin, consider some of these tips:
Oily skin- Try either a foundation powder or oil-free liquid foundation. Both work to absorb moisture into your skin while leaving a fresh matte finish. These will also prevent your make-up from feeling heavy or greasy. Dry Skin- Use either a tinted moisturizer or a hydrating mineral powder. These formulas deliver moisture and rejuvenation to the skin while providing all-over coverage. Combination Skin- Depending on the amount of time you wish to allocate to make-up application each day, this can often be a multiple step strategy. Try applying a powder foundation, focusing heavily on the more prominent oil-building areas of your face. A lighter foundation allows room for sheer, medium, or full coverage (depending on the severity) on-top for areas of skin discoloration or blemishes.
Avoid mismatching
Perhaps the most common mistake most women make is choosing the wrong shade for their skin shade, creating that dreaded orange line separating face from neck. Remember, your complexion's tint changes throughout the year.One way to avoid using the wrong color is to test three different shades along your jawline, and rub each in with a make-up sponge or brush. Choose the color that naturally dissipates into your skin while matching your skin’s undertone, and apply a small amount to your neck to see if it has the same effect. Be aware that it is never a good idea to go darker with your foundation, seeing as your face builds oils and moisture throughout the day that will make it appear even darker. Remember, you can always seek professional advice in lieu of a beauty technician at any large department store, drugstore, or beauty supply store.
Sleeping with it on
Any make-up artist or dermatologist would tell you that this is a huge no-no. Dodging make-up removal before heading to bed can lead to some serious break outs. Not only are your pores being suffocated with a t
hick layer of make-up, but also with the pollution and grime your skin was exposed to throughout the day. Stay away from harsh facial scrubs, which contain small pieces of minerals or sand that can cause tiny scratches on the surface of the skin. Opt for a mild, fragrance-free cleanser, like Cetaphil, and always follow it up with a moisturizing cream. Do yourself a favor, spare the extra 5 minutes and nail down a regime. Your skin will thank you in the end.