The first step in selecting face makeup is to
determine the type of skin you have and the look you are hoping
to obtain. Skin changes as you age, during the day, and through
the seasons – therefore, you may need a variety of products to
satisfy your face’s needs.
Start with your skin’s basic composition:
oily, dry or combination. Most skin falls in the combination
category with oil on the T-zone and the rest dry. Some facial
skins also change their composition with hormone changes or
humidity. Next, determine the amount of coverage you need based
on the condition of your skin and your age. More coverage is
necessary for skins with multiple imperfections and wrinkles
that come with age.
Now that you have determined the texture of
your skin, it is time to find the perfect foundation color.
Always test shades of foundation on your face at the jaw line,
as you want your face makeup color to match your neck. Try at
least three different shades and test the true color in natural
light. Even better, ask for a sample to take home and wear all
day. Also, keep in mind that the color of your skin will change
with the seasons – spring and fall are great times to reevaluate
your chosen foundation palette.
Once you have resolved these three main points
– the skin’s composition, condition and color - you are ready to
go shopping. Remember, the right makeup will make your
complexion look naturally flawless – like you woke up that way.
Face Makeup to Fit Your Skin
The following outlines the best face makeup
products to match typical skin types.
Oily Skin with Acne
Blotting papers
Loose Face Powder
Oil Control Liquid Foundation
Stick Foundation - to hide blemishes
Dry Aging Skin
Luminescent and Dewy Foundation Styles
Concealer
Pressed Powder
Combination Skin
Liquid or Cream Foundation
Balancing Products
Matte Products - to balance skin texture
Ruddy Red Skin
Yellow Based Foundation - to combat redness
Stick or Cream Products – blend evenly into
skin
Skin of Color
Lighter Colors of Foundation
Warm Honey Tones
Good Skin
Sheer Liquid Foundation
Tinted Moisturizer
Application Tips
Before beginning with your makeup routine,
always cleanse and moisturize your face and neck. Then, let the
skin rest before tackling any makeup steps. This will help the
skin to restore its most natural texture and color to ensure the
makeup you apply will look right all day long. Also consider a
face primer, as it seals in the moisture and smoothes the skin
before applying the foundation.
Whichever type of foundation you choose; the
steps for application are relatively the same. Place a small
amount of the makeup on your finger – about the size of the
finger tip. Always start at the middle of the face with dots
along the T-zone. Blend out and down toward the neck. For
lighter coverage apply with a damp sponge, or in general, you
can also use your fingertips. Ideally, place the face makeup
over the entire face including your eyelids, nose corners and
lips. This will provide a solid base for the rest of your makeup
and ensure even color distribution. If you end up applying too
much, you can always blot the excess with a tissue - a good
practice for oilier skin types as it also absorbs some of the
excess oil before the foundation has set.
For some, this application process might be a
little more makeup then desired. Don’t feel that face makeup
must completely cover your face. Many women apply where needed,
cover the imperfections, and blend with a damp sponge. This
process works well for younger, relatively clear face
complexions – just be sure that you blend well.
The last crucial step is the face powder. Find
one that matches your foundation and place on top of your face
when you are satisfied with the look of your face makeup. The
powder helps to seal in the foundation and ensure a flawless
finish all day. Depending on your needs, powder is available
either loose or pressed. For less overall coverage use a large
powder brush; for more, use the puff.
