Applying foundation is a very tricky job and if not done properly you might end up looking like a clown. When you apply foundation it should not be noticeable by anyone but you. Thus the job of foundation is to make your skin look naturally gorgeous and not to change its colour. With the help of right and accurately applied foundation you can hide roughness, spots, pimples, blemishes and irritated area of the skin.

For choosing the right foundation you have to firstly determine which type of foundation is right for your skin type and then choose the right color.

Types of Foundations

Liquid
Liquid foundations are the most versatile type of foundation, suitable for almost all skin types. Liquid foundations usually offer sheer coverage and provide a natural look. They blend easily and are easy to apply. They are available in water-based and oil-based formulas.

Cream
Cream foundations are not a favourable choice. The creamy foundation goes on smooth but dries quickly...making blending a bit difficult. They are known for their heavier coverage and more intense moisturizing properties, making them ideal for normal, dry (and especially extra-dry) skin.

Compact
Compact foundations are best for oily and normal skin types. Compact foundations deliver a light, sheer matte coverage when applied with a dry sponge and a heavier matte coverage when applied with a wet sponge.

Dual active powder foundation
This type of foundation is ideal for on-the-go women for whom time is precious, yet she needs to look great in seconds. Dual Active Foundation, as the name implies, is a foundation and powder in one. It provides the easy application of a powder with the excellent coverage of a foundation.

Tinted Moisturizer
Tinted moisturizer is ideal for a full range of skin types and gives a sheer, healthy glow to the skin. Their moisturizing properties help protect against the dry skin that comes from over-exposure to the wind, sun and other outdoor elements, and as an added bonus, they often come with SPF protection.

Choosing the Right Colour

When choosing the right Colour always remember that a perfect foundation should be identical to your skin tone. Thus go in for a yellow-based foundation and avoid foundations that feature pink, peach and orange tones. While choosing the perfect tone of foundation test it in natural lighting. Apply some to your neck and then swipe a little of the foundation onto your jawline, blending it gently into your skin. It should match with your skin tone and should completely disappear.

Applying Foundation

While applying foundation dot the foundation sparingly on one side of the face first and blend well with makeup sponge, working from the top of the face downward, to create a smooth, even finish. Repeat the same procedure on the other side of the face. Remember to smudge off along face line with a puff. Remember proper blending is the key - blend your foundation under the jawline, into the hairline, on the ear lobes. Pay special attention to the corners of the nose, corners of the mouth, over and under the eyes. If you need to retouch a particular spot, re-apply lightly and blend. Once the foundation is applied, it's time to "set" it with a light dusting of powder. Lightly powder with a translucent powder to set your foundation.