When applying foundation, isn’t the goal to create a base that looks flawless, radiant yet like your real skin? Naturally, chalky, cakey and uneven foundation can be an absolute bummer! If you’ve ever been victim to it, you know exactly what I mean. Thankfully, I’m here to make sure it never happens again.
You don’t have to be a makeup artist or attend makeup school to get it right. All you gotta do is adopt the correct technique while applying foundation. Whether you use liquid, powder or mousse foundation, here’s a complete guide to applying foundation for a flawless base.
Liquid foundation
Coverage type: Medium to full
Best application method: Brush, makeup sponge, fingers
Brush - Press and blend the foundation into your skin, using both swirling and stroking motions. Make sure to end with circular motions to blend any creases or harsh lines.
Makeup sponge - This application tool will give you a natural and dewy finish. Wet your makeup sponge and squeeze out excess water. Then use it to press foundation into the skin. Use dabbing motions to blend it perfectly.
Fingers - While this is not considered to be the most hygienic method, a lot of makeup artists swear by it. Squeeze some liquid foundation on the back of your hand and apply using your fingers in circular motions. Ensure you blend it smoothly.
BB Picks: Lakme 9 To 5 Primer + Matte Perfect Cover Foundation
Powder foundation
Coverage type: Light to medium
Best application method: Brush, makeup sponge, puff
Brush - Swirl the brush to pick the powder, tap off excess product then apply all over the face if buffing motion. This will give you light coverage.
Makeup sponge - Use a damp sponge to pick and dab the powder foundation onto the skin, this will give an opaque finish.
Puff - Most powder foundations come with a puff applicator, use it for touch-ups by patting the product on oil-prone areas.
BB Picks: Lakme 9 to 5 Primer + Matte Powder Foundation Compact
Mousse foundation
Coverage type: Light to medium
Best application method: Fingers
This type of foundation spreads and distributes better with your fingers. Simply dot the foundation on your skin and gently blend it in. If you don’t want to use your fingers, you can use a makeup brush or sponge to spread and buff the product onto the skin.
BB Picks: Lakme Absolute Skin Natural Mousse
Written by Sanya Hamdani on Aug 18, 2020
Sanya Hamdani is a skincare enthusiast and lipstick hoarder, she truly believes no two red lipsticks look exactly alike. With a Master's degree in Communication & Journalism and 5+ years of digital writing experience up her sleeve, Sanya has some of the biggest beauty experts in the country on her speed dial. When she's not swatching products or writing about the latest trends in beauty, you will find her watching F.R.I.E.N.D.S. or cooking up a storm in the kitchen.