If you are new to foundation or need a refresher before switching products, we’ve compiled eight things that you should consider before purchasing a new foundation. We all have vastly different needs when it comes to skin care and makeup so if you are debating on formulas and coverage options, keep reading for specifics on what will work best for your unique needs.
1. Light Coverage: If you have no major imperfections or redness to correct, try using a lightweight or sheer coverage foundation. Foundation should always be applied as light as possible while still masking imperfections on the skin. If you are someone who has a generally clear and manageable complexion, then you should look for a sheer foundation or a tinted moisturizer. Lighter foundations will help even your skin tone without feeling unnecessarily heavy or cakey.
2. Heavy Coverage: If you have excessive redness, dark spots, or breakouts that need to be covered, you want to look for a full to medium coverage foundation. These types of foundations will hide your natural skin completely, so they are not for people simply looking to even out their skin tone. Full to medium coverage foundations are for the most severe types of discoloration so if you have yet to find a foundation that covers all your imperfections, then you need to move up in coverage. Start with a medium coverage and if you are still seeing redness peaking through, then move to a full coverage option. With foundation, less is more so make sure you are not unnecessarily overdoing with more coverage then necessary.
3. Sensitive Skin: If you have breakout prone skin, make sure to look for a foundation that says oil free on the packaging for the product. This may seem like an obvious one but can be easily overlooked on products with more subtle packaging. If you have sensitive, acne prone skin, an oil-based makeup can clog your pores and cause further breakouts. So, be sure to avoid these types of foundations so you do not irritate your already sensitive skin.
4. Dry Skin: Those with dry skin should focus on liquid foundations over powder options. Powder foundations can settle into fine lines and dry patches on those who experience excess dryness. Therefore, it is important for people with this skin type to find a liquid or cream formula that will add moisture back into the skin rather than further drying it out. If you have dry skin but are not breakout prone, you may find that an oil-based foundation helps keep your skin free of dryness and flaking.
5. Oily Skin: Opposite of those with dry skin, people with more oily skin do great with a powder foundation. If you have oily skin and are looking for a sheer coverage option, powder foundations can be a great solution. The main issue with these types of foundations is that they do not often come in medium or full coverage options as powders are naturally more sheer. People with oily skin who need more coverage will benefit from a liquid foundation followed by a setting powder.
6. Sunscreen Included: SPF is often overlooked but is incredibly important for the long-term health of your skin. Some foundations on the market include SPF in their formulas. We highly recommend seeking one of these foundations out as SPF usage can help decrease the development and appearance of dark spots and fine lines. You can apply a daily sunscreen separate from your foundation, but it is much easier to have an all-in-one formula to ensure your skin’s protection each day. So keep an eye out for foundations that include SPF in their formula.
7. Choosing the Correct Shade: After you have chosen which foundation is best for your needs, you will then have to choose a shade that will work for your skin tone. Many people struggle when it comes to choosing a shade because they don’t know how to identify their undertone. Undertone is a major factor in selecting a foundation shade that looks natural and blends with your skin. You can have a warm, neutral, or cool undertone. It is possible that you already make choices based on your undertone. For example, if you look best in reds, yellows, or oranges, then your undertone is most likely warm. If your wardrobe has mostly blues, greens, and purples, then you likely have a cool undertone. If you feel like you can pull off any color, then chances are you have a neutral undertone. Once you have determined your undertone, you will have a much easier time finding a shade that matches your skin tone.
8. Test Before You Buy: The best thing you can do when choosing a foundation is to test products out in person before you buy. This will help you decide if you like how the foundation feels as well as better ensuring that you are purchasing the correct color. Additionally, if you are struggling to find a shade that bends with your skin, you are able to consult with one of the experts in the store to make sure you are happy with what you purchase.
Now that you’ve gotten the run down on foundation, you are ready to go and find your holy grail foundation. No matter what type of skin you have or which coverage option you need, there is a foundation that is right for you so use these tips and tricks to go out there and find it!
Leave a Reply