Foundation can make a tremendous difference to how we look and feel about ourselves, it can help to create a perfectly seamless finish and add a glow to our face. Fortunately with such an array of sheer textures and shades to choose from, there is a formula to suit everyone’s skin type. There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to your foundation application, but the key is to keep it as natural as possible, after all you don’t want people noticing your makeup rather than you:

Light diffusing foundation contains minute particles that help to minimize flaws by reflecting the light instead of absorbing it. These bases help to maximize the light available, reflecting a flawless finish and diminishing the appearance of lines and wrinkles.

Sun Filters are formulas that include SPF protection. To give enough protection ideally your base will need to cover both the UVA and UVB spectrum in order to help prevent premature aging. It is not advisable however to rely on foundation with sun protection, as a complete product to prevent sunburn.

Oil free foundation works really well for oily or acneic skin types. Some acne fighting formulas contain salicylic acid, this ingredient acts as an exfoliant for breakout control. The best formulas are those that are non-comedogenic and non-acnegenic.

Skin treatments are also built in to some formulas that contain oil inhibitors.These are hydrating agents to add moisture to the skin and antioxidants and vitamins C and E, which work to preserve the skins elasticity.

Your Application should be as flawless as possible, so try to avoid using your fingers as this will leave an uneven application. Your fingers are full of bacteria which is bad news for oily skin types, instead use a brush and work in circular motions so that your base works into your skin rather than sitting on top of it. The key is to blend everything together well so your base looks as natural as possible. The color needs to duplicate the look of your skin, you should not be able to discern the difference between the two. To get the best color match test the foundation on your skin just above the jaw line, preferably in natural light and the one that almost disappears into your skin is the right one for you.

To complete your foundation look always set with a translucent powder, which will work to lock in your base as opposed to adding further color. Use a velor pad or a large brush and be sure to whisk away any excess. You want to give your skin the appearance that your makeup is as natural as possible, not sitting on top of the skin for best results.

Makeup is all about personal choice and fortunately there is no one size fits all approach. You can choose the shade, texture and the amount of coverage you require from an array of bases formulated for just about every skin type and tone, foundation also works as a treatment base that is suitable for even the most oiliest or driest of skins. The rule of thumb when working with foundation is that you want to duplicate a natural effect, one that suits your skin type and condition.

Foundation is not just about getting the best color match, take a while to study your skin with no makeup on and ask yourself do you need extra moisture, or a formula that will help to combat that oily shine that appears through out the day, alternatively you may want a foundation with anti aging protection that will help disguise those fine lines and wrinkles. Once you have established your skin concerns it will make your foundation selection much easier.