Woman applying makeup foundation

Foundation
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Choosing the right foundation is a key step in your overall makeup routine. A major makeup woe is that it can be difficult to find the right shade of foundation and strike a balance in coverage. Foundation can give the perfect base for your skin, setting off your look with a more even-toned complexion. Yet there are some beauty guidelines you must follow when it comes to foundation in order to make sure you come across as natural.

For each skin type there are different foundations and we will help you narrow down the best ones. Oily skin requires products that will not make the problem worse. You should look for oil-free or powder foundations. Maybelline Mineral Powder Foundation contains zero oils, fragrances or preservatives making it perfect for oily skin. It is available at most drugstores for under $15. This powder will help to absorb the excess oil giving your skin a matte finish. Some foundations also contain salicylic acid which helps to absorb excess oil.

Dry skin requires a foundation that contains plenty of moisture. This can include liquid, hydrating powders and BB creams. They help to give a smooth flawless look effortlessly while hydrating the skin. Look for products that include protection from the sun with an SPF. You can also help control the amount of coverage you get by using more or less product. CoverGirl Natureluxe Silk Foundation contains jojoba and cucumber extract for their moisturizing properties. It actively treats dry skin while providing a beautiful finish.

For combination skin (oily in areas, dry in others) try a mixture of both. Use less foundation in the oily areas and use powder over it. BB creams are a great tool for use as a foundation that provides the skin with many different benefits. L’Oreal Youth Code BB Cream Illuminator provides many conditioning features leaving the skin looking hydrated and fresh. It is available at most drugstores. No matter what type of foundation you are wearing it is suggested that you pat it dry with an unused powder puff. This can help to get rid of excess product and will help it to set. You can always use a corn-silk or translucent powder to help get a photo-finish look.

Choosing the right shade of foundation can seem impossible. You get home and it is either too dark or too light. To avoid this problem go to the cosmetic department and ask for help. This foundation will be more expensive than you would find in the drugstore but they can assess what color you require. They will often sit you down for a consultation about your skins needs and will find a foundation to match them. After that initial expensive purchase you can bring that shade to the pharmacy and get a less expensive match.

Foundations come in different finishes including matte, illuminating, bronzing and semi-matte. The easiest to get a day to night time look effortlessly is to use a semi matte. Matte is a great choice for oily areas on the face because it finishes with a zero shine effect. It does not look the best on those who have deep wrinkles or have dry skin because it can set into fine lines and rough patches. Illuminating foundations help to give a golden goddess look by using light-reflective particles. It is very flattering on many different complexions.

You may need several shades of foundations that change from season to season. This includes a lighter shade for winter and a darker shade for summer. Do not just test the foundation color on the back of your hand because it is not an accurate color of your face. Instead ask for help and take the time required to find the perfect shade.