The foundation of foundations
An important step in one's beauty routine is applying foundation. It can work as a security blanket on those less perfect days to even out skin tone while keeping the rest of your makeup put.
But now that the warmer weather is here, we want to look bright and fresh without the cakey aftermath, right? Rest assured, you can now stock that empty spot on your vanity with a low-maintenance but effective formula. From air-infused dispensers to five-in-one options, the variety means you can custom fit the foundation to your skin tone and preference.
Also see: Eight best new sunscreen options to save your skin
Foam foundation
Using a foundation is important because it polishes off your look. "The best way to apply foundation is after using a moisturizer or primer, when the skin is still moist," suggests makeup artist David Goveia. This way the product will go on evenly.
Tip: Apply only a small amount. This foam formulation is economical which means a little goes a long way. It's super fluffy and the finish is light and airy on your skin.
Try: Maybelline Dream Nude Airfoam
Also see: Five natural ways to get rid of puffy eyes and dark circles
Liquid foundation
But just because you're wearing foundation doesn't mean everyone has to know it. The point is to look like you don't need it. "I like liquid foundations best, because they can be very light weight, but you can layer them in particular areas to give more coverage," says Goveia. "You should start in the middle of the face, that is where most imperfections and redness are, and blend outwards."
Tip: A foundation brush is the smartest tool to use, but fingers work well too.
Try: More than just coverage, this foundation boasts an SPF of 20 and ingredients like vitamin E to help fight the signs of aging. Revlon Age Perfect Defying With DNA Advantage Cream Makeup
Also see: Four anti-aging miracle workers for younger looking skin
BB cream
Tip: If you're not quite sure which foundation is right for you, then you might want to test out one of the much buzzed about BB creams (short for blemish or beauty balm) first. These five-in-one products will even out skin tone, while offering anti-aging benefits and sun protection in the form of SPF.
This BB cream offers more coverage than a tinted moisturizer, but is lighter than a traditional foundation.
Try: Garnier BB Cream Miracle Skin Perfector
Also see: Natural makeup: Get the look with expert tips
Tinted moisturizer
"Replacing your foundation with a tinted moisturizer or BB cream is the ultimate goal because you always want your skin to look natural, and your makeup to be invisible," says Goveia.
Tip: This new breed of skincare and makeup wrapped into one not only speeds up your routine in the morning, it also declutters your makeup bag. If you're already blessed with beautiful skin, a tinted moisturizer is the best option. It will keep your skin hydrated while offering a subtle glow and even out your skin tone.
Try: Nars Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer
Also see: Tattoos 101: How to get inked and tips on how to conceal or remove them
Spray foundation
"As the weather gets warmer, use less foundation and skip the powder entirely," says Goveia. "There are more hours of daylight in spring/summer, and foundation and powder are most visible in that type of natural lighting, so be sure to blend well."
Tip: If you don't like the feel of a liquid foundation, this spray formula is a great
alternative. Instead of a brush or your fingers, spray a little product
on a makeup sponge and apply to the areas you'd like to cover.
Try: Dior DiorSkin AirFlash Spray Foundation
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