Whether you use a brush, sponge, or your trusty fingers, follow these tips for flawless foundation.
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Key Takeaways
Foundation is the biggest make-or-break item in yourmakeup routine.
(And you don’t want your foundation to look like foundation.)
Applying the perfect makeup base takes finesse, and finding the right formula is only half the challenge.
We break down the best way to apply foundation and share expert tips for each method.
Timing-wise, your fingers are the quickest way to apply foundation and are best for a natural look.
However, it’s also the most finicky method.
Using a brush allows you to achieve a full-coverage look but can leave streaks from the brush bristles.
Sometimes, a little mixing and matching can go a long way.
It’s worth exploring different tool combos with different foundation formulas to determine what works best for you.
Step 1: Clean Hands and Face
Start with completely clean hands.
The last thing you want is a breakout courtesy of dirty fingers.
Also, before applying makeup,wash your facethoroughly and apply a light layer of moisturizer.
Wait at least 15 minutes for your skincare to sink in before applying makeup.
(This step provides a good base canvas for your foundation.)
Clean hands avoid spreading bacteria onto your skin and prevent cross-contamination with products.
(This step is helpful no matter which tool method you choose.)
Remember, less is more.
It’s easy to add more foundation if you want more coverage rather than trying to remove extra foundation.
Start in the middle of your face and work your way outward.
This isn’t necessarily a bad thing.
You’ll find that the product will absorb super fast, and you’ll get a more controlled utility.
Be sure to use non-comedogenic and oil-free products to avoid clogging your pores.
Consider lightly applying foundation to the ear area, especially if you tend to have red lobes.
This will help the foundation set and remove extra foundation.
The downside is that the bristles like to leave little streaks and lines on your face.
Choose a thin-bristled, synthetic brush to avoid this as much as possible.
“I never use flat foundation brushes, only stippling or blending brushes,” says Lovello.
“Unlike traditional foundation brushes that have a single layer of bristles, stippling brushes have two.
Avoid cream foundation with this method.
Brushes work best for applying liquid foundation.
Cream foundations are thicker and can leave streaks.
Debris from previous makeup applications can cause a caked-on look and clog pores.
Grab the stippling brush and dab the brush along your skin to blend everything in.
Rather than using one-directional brush strokes, blend in various directions to avoid streaks.
Just avoid overdoing it by moving the product around too much; use a light hand here.
Firm sponges are good for powder foundations, though.
Try different sizes and shapes until you find a good fit.
Use each section for different areas.
Once that’s smoothed out, flip to the rounded side to blend your cheeks and forehead.
Makeup sponges need to dry and breathe when not in use to avoid bacteria and mold growth.
