Guest Author - Rebekah Mack Bono

Selecting and applying foundation make up can be one of the trickiest parts of your beauty routine. These foundation make up tips will help make this otherwise frustrating task, a little easier for you.

Choosing your shade of foundation make up may seem intimidating, but it's not as bad as it may seem. Simply swipe two or three colors that are close to your natural skin color along your jaw line. You want the make-up to disappear into your skin. If it doesn't, move along until you find one that does.

Next, you will need to choose your finish and coverage. Are you looking for a sheer, dewy look or something matte and long lasting? A sheer look works well for clear skin that requires little coverage. Think of a fresh-faced teen for a dewy look. Matte is a very formal look, and is great for an oily complexion.

If all of this sounds overwhelming to you, schedule an appointment for a consultation at your favorite department store with a make up artist. This is typically a free service. Talk to them about your lifestyle and needs. Are you active at the gym? Do you prefer very little makeup? Do you need more coverage to hide blemishes and scarring? They will help you choose a foundation that is right for your skin type and lifestyle.

Once you have selected the foundation make up that is right for you, you need to prep your face so your foundation goes on smoothly.

Primers are getting a lot of recognition lately, and rightfully so. They help your foundation glide on like silk and give it staying power. One to try is Laura Mercier. Another option is to prep with moisturizer.

Now it's time to apply your foundation make up. There are mixed opinions on application. A sponge works well and is easy to blend, although many make-up artists insist on a brush. I think both work just fine and it is a matter of personal preference. I use a brush for the initial application, and blend with a sponge. Blending your foundation into your neck is important. Do not forget this step or you will have a visible line, and we all know what that looks like don't we?

Concealer should be applied one shade lighter where you are dark, and the same shade as your foundation where you need to cover redness. Look for a concealer that is water based. This is the biggest error women make when choosing concealer. The majority clogs your pores, so the blemishes you are trying to cover are just being replaced!

Finally, dust translucent loose powder over your entire face with a large brush. Skip this step if you want a dewy look.

There you have it, a flawless base.

Laura Mercier Foundation Primer - Oil Free Bobbi Brown Foundation Stick