Great makeup starts from a great base. Period.
Today, you probably can find more than a hundred shades of foundations (and the latest on-trend BB creams and CC creams…) in a cosmetic store. However, how do you know which foundation is your perfect match? For all the makeup newcomers out there, I have great news for you. Philadelphia-based makeup artist Melinda D. Austin shared with us a few tips and tricks of how to choose the right foundation.
Image courtesy of marin/ FreeDigitalPhotos.net
1. Determine your skin tone.
Your skin may be cool toned, warm toned, or neutral. Determine your skin tone first, and then choose a foundation with the same undertones.
**A note from Liuyi: Don’t know your skin tone? The easiest way to find out is to take a silver/gold test! If you look better in gold jewelry, you have a warm tone; if you look better in silver jewelry, you have a cool tone. If you look great in both gold and silver jewelry, then your skin is neutral toned.
2. Determine the right type of foundation.
What type of skin do you have? Is it oily, combination, normal, or dry? Choosing the right type of foundation based on your skin type is important. Also, if you don’t have many blemishes on your skin, you can opt for a sheer coverage foundation. If you need a lot of cover-up, a full coverage foundation is great for you.
3. Swatch foundations for the perfect shade.
Now you have matched your foundation with your skin tone and skin type. What you need to do afterward is to find your perfect shade. If you unsure of which shade suites you the most, test the foundation on your chin when you are not wearing any face makeup. Pick two to three shades that you think will suit you, and swatch them on you chin. The shade that disappears in your skin and blends well with your skin tone is your perfect shade.
More tips from Melinda
If your skin gets very oily after a few hours of wearing makeup, you need to ask yourself whether you have a good skin care regime. Make sure your skin is well-hydrated before you apply your face makeup. Use mattifying powder and oil-free primers if needed.
About Melinda D. Austin:
Time in the makeup industry: Since 1980 (WOW!)
Favorite makeup look: Smokey
Favorite makeup brand: Make Up For Ever
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