Applying foundation is a quick and easy way to achieve flawless-looking skin. But even if you find the perfect shade and formula for your skin-type, you still might need a bit of trouble-shooting. If your foundation feels blah - try one of these fixes and take your makeup from adequate to fabulous!
There's nothing worse than walking outside and realizing your makeup looks like a mask. One of the easiest ways to get a natural finish - even with a thick foundation - is to use a specially designed sponge to blend it in place. The original and most famous is the Beauty Blender ($26), while Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge ($9.99) is a good drugstore option.
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To use, wet the sponge, wrap it in a paper towel to squeeze out excess water, then dab it in foundation and bounce the sponge across your skin. Use the tapered tip for under the eyes and around the nose.
For long days when you don't have time to worry about touching-up or reapplying make-up, use a fixing spray to set your look in place. Urban Decay All-Nighter Long-Lasting Makeup Setting Spray ($36) and L'Oreal Infallible Pro-spray & Set ($16.99) dispense a fine mist that fixes your makeup in place and keeps it looking fresh all day.
While foundation can conceal skin imperfections, it may need a boost in the form of a primer. Primers prepare a smoother base for foundation, while correcting underlying issues. The Body Shop Wonderblur face primer ($25) targets large pores and fine lines, while the L'Oreal Magic Lumi Light Infusing Primer ($16) makes skin look dewy and luminous.
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Prep your skin pre-foundation by cleansing, moisturizing and then applying primer where needed.
Powder is essential when you want foundation to stay in place. While some people apply powder all over their face to set their foundation, I prefer to powder only where necessary. I dab Vichy Dermablend over any concealed acne scars, and I set my under-eye concealer with Ben Nye Banana powder ($14.75) - a yellow-based powder that provides a brightening effect.
Hope you liked these four simple tricks! I would love to hear about your foundation tips in the comments below!
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