Finding the right foundation color is tricky enough – you try some on the jawline, get out of the store to check in the natural light if it fades into your skin. But how do you get the right formula, so that it provides you with a desired coverage and doesn’t disappear from your face by the end of the day? It’s important to choose foundation according to your skin type, and believe me, all the needed information can be found on the label.
DRY SKIN. Your foundation should include hydrating ingredients, so look for the words “hydrating”, “moisturizing” or “moisture-rich” when reading a label. It’s better to use liquid foundation when your skin is dry, because it contains some oil to give a better hydration. Try to avoid powder or stick formulas, they can accentuate dryness.
OILY SKIN. People with oily skin can handle almost all textures of foundations: liquid, stick or powder. The label on your foundation should include words like “oil-free” or “oil-control”. If you have an extremely shiny skin, you need foundation that contains oil-absorbing powders to matify the skin. If your skin is prone to breakouts, look for the oil-free formula with salicylic acid to help clear up the blemishes.
COMBINATION SKIN. There are 2 types of combination skin: normal-to-dry and normal-to-oily. Use liquid moisturizing foundation if you are on the dry side, and an oil-free formula if you are on the oily side. Try “balancing” formulas that specifically cater for combination skin. Cream-to-powder foundations can work for normal-to-oily complexions, because you get the coverage you need, plus the texture takes care of the shine.
NORMAL SKIN. People with normal skin type can handle any foundation texture, and if your skin is clear, tinted moisturizer is a good choice for you.
CHOOSE THE RIGHT TEXTURE TO GET THE COVERAGE YOU WANT.
Liquid Foundation. This is the most versatile texture. It provides sheer to medium coverage, and you are still able to see your skin through it. Liquid foundation is for those who like natural finish and have normal or combination skin types.
Cream Foundation. You get medium to total coverage. These foundations contain rich moisturizing ingredients, so they go better with dry and flaky skin types.
Tinted Moisturizer. Suitable for normal to dry skin. They are very sheer and lightweight, which means that you get a minimal coverage. They even out skin tone, give a natural finish, but don’t provide any coverage for dark spots, blemishes or redness. Tinted moisturizers are best for hot and humid climates, and also if your only concern is uneven skin tone.
Stick Foundation. Ideal for on-the-spot treatment and is acceptable for all skin types. It provides medium to heavy coverage, and you can camouflage any skin discolorations on-the-go.
Cream-to-Powder Foundation. Medium coverage with matte finish. Not suitable for acne-prone or dry skin, as it can accentuate the imperfections. Good for people with normal-to-oily skin types.
Powder Foundation. You get velvety-looking skin with medium coverage. These foundations can minimize the appearance of large pores and give the skin a matte finish; better suited for oily skin.
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DO YOU NEED A PRIMER?
Face primer is a lightweight gel or lotion that is used after moisturizer, but before foundation or any other makeup you use.
What it does: smooths fine lines, makes pores less noticeable, creates an even surface for makeup application, makes foundation last longer. You don’t have to have a primer, it just adds more polish to the skin and makes it look soft and satiny.
