wondering how to apply foundation? You are not alone. Many have a mixed relationship with their foundation. They love the ability to create that appearance of unblemished skin with an even tone. They hate the fact that it can be so difficult to look like you’re wearing nothing at all. There are so many questions: What should you apply before foundation? Do you apply concealer or foundation first? How much foundation to use? The list is long. This is why you need an expert strategy to achieve a natural-looking foundation. Luckily, we’ve rounded up eight foolproof tips for flawless foundation application.
First, you need to find the right foundation. Even Better Clinical™ Broad Spectrum Serum Foundation SPF 25 is our best foundation and feels weightless on the skin. However, it offers perfect long-lasting coverage with a matte finish. The best part: Powered by skincare and powered by serum technology, this foundation leaves skin looking even better than before. Take this quiz to discover other formulas suited to your skin type.
1. Start with a clean canvas.
Your foundation will only look better if you have great skin underneath, which is why maintaining a consistent skincare routine is essential. Just before applying your best natural-looking foundation, it’s important to cleanse the skin to avoid clogging pores and to remove any impurities that could dull your natural glow. Next, gently exfoliate the skin to remove dry, dead cells that can cause an unbalanced or flaky appearance. Finally, apply a moisturizer; foundation penetrates more easily on hydrated skin. Check all those boxes with the 3-Step Skin Care System.
2. Take the time to apply a primer.
Yes, a primer may be an extra step to your makeup routine, but it will make your foundation look flawless because it makes your skin smooth. If you prefer smooth skin with a matte finish, choose a veiled primer like our Even Better™ Pore Minimizing Primer. Its light water-balm texture blurs pores and reduces sebum and shine. If you want something more radiant and glowing, choose a primer like our Even Better™ Reflective Primer , which is hydrating and boosted with vitamin C.
3. Choose how much foundation to use.
Always start by applying a small amount of our best natural-looking foundation, then add more until you get the right coverage. The goal is to apply foundation only where you need it so your skin still looks like skin. And we have to admit it: there is nothing worse than ending up with a face covered in foundation. (Hint: If you have to apply foundation all over your face to get an even look, that means you’re using the wrong color.)
4. Decde on the placement of the foundation.
Where to place foundation? Concentrate the foundation in the center of your face where redness and spots are most present. Apply a small amount of foundation to either side of your nose and the middle of your forehead and chin, then blend outward. After blending, see if there are any other spots where the spots are visible and apply a light layer of foundation to those specific areas.
5. Pat, don’t rub.
Whether you use a foundation brush (synthetic bristles are best) or your fingertips, apply foundation by gently tapping it onto your skin. Avoid wiping or rubbing, as this will only push the foundation around and create marks. Instead, use your fingers to apply foundation to the skin. Another option: The Buff Foundation Brush ‘s dense bristles gently blend foundation onto skin and can be used with liquid, powder, cream, or stick formulas.
6. Don’t forget the ears!
Often overlooked, ears are also part of your face. If you often have red lobes, gently sweep them with the foundation brush so they blend in with the rest of your face.
7. Apply and forget.
Most people associate powder with a set, matte look, but applying a light, silky powder, like loose powder sifted over your foundation, will prevent it from shifting without diminishing its shine. Dip a large, fluffy powder brush into the powder, then shake the brush once to remove any excess amount; you should be able to see the hairs through the powder. Apply gently to the face, and if necessary, pressing more firmly on lighter areas such as the T-zone, chin and under the eyes.