This past weekend, I was catching up with some of my girlfriends. We started talking about my favourite topic...MAKE-UP!!
My friend was frustrated and wants to get a new foundation but wasn't quite sure where to start. We all imparted our pearls of wisdom and went our merry ways.
However, it got me thinking. What is the best way to approach the introduction of a new foundation??
Truly I understand the frustration, as the choices have become abundant over the years. Once upon a time, girls with colour were very limited on colour ranges. But now there is such a great selection in any make up department that it can be a daunting and overwhelming task.
Here are some of my suggestions on how to approach the search for your holy grail foundation:
WHAT TYPE OF SKIN DO YOU HAVE?
- First things first, figure out what kind of skin do you have? Are you oily? Normal or dry? How dry or how oily? The answer to this question should lead you what kind of foundation you need.
WHAT KIND OF FINISH DO YOU WANT?
- Now give some thought on what kind of finish do you require? Do you want to achieve a matte finish? If you have oily skin, then you may want to give this some thought. Do you prefer a glowey and dewy finish? If you have dry skin, then maybe this is what you are leaning towards. Or do you want a more natural finish? Once you figure out which way you are leaning, you may be able to narrow down if you want a liquid foundation, a powder foundation or a cream to powder foundation.
HOW MUCH COVERAGE DO YOU WANT?
- Finally, how much coverage do you want? What are your skin needs? Do you need a foundation that has a full coverage and will cover all blemishes etc on your face? Or do you want a medium to full coverage that is buildable but still has more natural finish? Do you want just a light coverage foundation that gives you a natural finish but a canvas for the rest of your make up?
This should narrow you down to a particular brand or type of foundation.
ADDITONAL NOTES:
- SPF: super important factor espcially if this is going to be a foundation you are going to wear during the daytime. Always protect your skin! However, if you are wearing it at night time and you are going to be photographed, SPF does have some flashback which could result in you looking slightly ghostly (espcially if you are a brown girl like me!)
- BB & CC creams vs. foundations: BB creams and CC creams are traditionally not meant to be used as foundations but more like a tinted moisturizer with added benefits (like SPF, moisturizing, colour correcting etc). They don't offer the same amount of coverage and longevity on your skin but are great for every day use. Especially, if you ah e flawless skin!
They are also not as buildable as foundation. If you are looking for something that has coverage and is buildable, then maybe you should be looking at foundations.
- Waterbased, silicone based or oil based foundations: each have their appeal and it all depends on your needs. If you are more prone to oily or acne prone skin, then you should probably stay away from anything oil based. This will add to clogging your pores and potentially cause more break outs.
I know I know... It is a lot of information! But break down your needs before going into the store. That way you know what your needs are. Whoever is helping you out in the store, will be more effective as well.
Good luck and don't forget to share your tips and tricks as well!
