Guest Author - Blake Rave
If you look up the word 'foundation' in the dictionary, you will probably come across a definition that mentions 'groundwork' or a 'base for which something is built upon.' A solid foundation is paramount for a satisfying outcome - such is true in the world of makeup. Proper application of foundation can stand alone or serve as the building block for a more detailed makeup look.
1. Prep the Skin
Great makeup starts with great skin and healthy skin requires a balance of moisture and oil. Our bodies naturally produce an oily substance called sebum. This creates a protective barrier on the surface of the skin which prevents excess water loss as well as over absorption. Even the oiliest skin requires moisture, as oily skin typically lacks moisture but overproduces sebum. Using a moisturizer that fulfills your skin's unique needs creates a beautiful canvas for a flawless makeup application.
*Application Method: Using the tool of your choice (foundation brush, sponge, spray bottle, etc.) evenly distribute moisturizer to the face and neck. Working in small, circular motions will help the moisturizer to penetrate into the top layer of the skin allowing for optimum results. In the more sensitive areas, such as the under-eye area, lighter pressure and a soft stippling action will help prevent premature wrinkles and irritation.
2. Balance the Skin Tone
Most people have some naturally occurring discoloration within their skin tone. Common causes of discoloration can be environmental damage (i.e. sun spots), hormonal changes and melanin (pigmentation) disorders. Regardless the cause of discoloration, the purpose of foundation is to even the skin tone and blend away any discoloration for a soft and natural look.
*Application Method: Using a foundation brush or tool of you choice, start the application with a small amount of product in the area of the face which has the most discoloration. Keep your brush on the skin as much as possible and use a pumping action to press the foundation into the skin. This compressing technique allows the foundation to penetrate deeper and become more of a second skin. If there is not a significant amount of discoloration, start the application in the center of the face using the same technique and work outward toward the edges of the face and to the hairline. Make sure to blend away any visible lines around the outside of the face keeping the look natural and avoiding the look of a mask.
3. Set the Foundation (Optional but recommended)
Setting products lock down foundation and help to create a longer lasting look. There are two primary options for setting: powder or spray. Traditional setting powders absorb oil and work great on top of wet foundations, while setting sprays add moisture and work well over powdered products.
*Application Method (Powder): Load a powder brush or powder puff into the setting powder and apply to the face working in a downward sweeping motion, starting at the front hairline and sweeping down the face to the chin and neck. Working in a downward sweeping motion helps to lay down the fine, vellus hair that covers the face.
*Application Method (Spray): Hold the setting spray in your hand with your arm extended out in front of your face and the spray nozzle pointing at your face. Tilt your head back slightly and spritz several times while moving the spraying hand in a manner that allows the face to feel evenly moistened. A setting spray which comes out very fine and misty should be held slightly closer to the face than one that is heavier or projects in larger droplets. By holding the spray back a more even distribution of product is provided.
You’ve only got one face - treat it right! Take this guide as a map to a more confident you. Of course true beauty lies within, but why not let your outside match up a bit closer to what's inside?
