How to Choose the Perfect Foundation

How many times have you seen those ramp models with flawless skin and secretly hated them? Well, I do not know about you, but where it concerns me, every time I look at my skin and compare it to the flawless complexions of models on screen or print, I want to wear a paper bag on my head.

But that doesn't seem practical to me, so my next thought is to have some kind of skin transplant that allows me to get rid of the scars forever. But alas! We know that it is expensive and impractical, too. This brings me back to reality and to the world of makeup.

Thank whoever introduced the concept of makeup or to be precise, foundation, because without it, I would be walking around with a paper bag, believe me! Now, you can choose your foundation according to ...

Shiny T-zone: Combination skin (Hint of dry and oily skin)
Plain T-zone Less or no oil: Normal skin
Shiny all over: Oily Skin
Slightly Flaky: Dry Skin

If you have an oily skin the following foundations are perfect for you......

• Maybelline Dream Matte Mousse
• Chanel Perfection Lumière Long-Wear Flawless Fluid Makeup
• Clarins Ever Matte Oil-Free Foundation
• bareMinerals Matte SPF 15 Foundation
• Estée Lauder Invisible Fluid Makeup

The best time to check your skin type is as soon as you get up. You can also get an idea about your skin type after you wash your face.

The T-zone spans your forehead horizontally and the portion from your forehead to the chin. The T-zone is often more oily than the rest of the face. To check your T-zone take a tissue and place it on your face. The texture of your skin will be determined by the amount of oil on your tissue paper after removing it. It will also highlight the T-zone.

If you have oily skin, buy foundation that is oil-free and also helps to control shine and oil in the skin. The best foundations for oily skin are in a matte or powder finish.

If you have a dry skin then the following foundations are perfect for you

• Laura Mercier Crème Smooth Foundation
• MAC Mineralize Satinfinish SPF 15 Foundation
• Bobbi Brown Moisture Rich Foundation
• Bourjois 10 Hour Sleep Effect Foundation
• Chanel Vitalumiere Satin Smoothing Fluid Makeup SPF 15

If you have dry skin, then buy one with some moisturizers. Opt for one that is creamy or liquid-based; this will prevent your skin from looking dry and cakey.

Those with combination skin should choose a moisturizing one that gives you a matte look.

People with sensitive skin should go for one that is free of fragrance and oil, and one that has been tested for skin irritation.

Look for "non-comedogenic" or "non-occlusive" foundation to reduce the incidence of pimples.

Most people make the mistake of buying foundation that doesn't suit their color or tone of the face. This only ends up looking silly (imagine a lighter face and darker neck).

Skin tone is the underlying tint in your skin. These are pink, yellow or peach. If you have a pink undertone, you need to even out your skin tone by using a yellow-toned foundation. Try it on your face and not on hands because hands always have a different color compared to the face.

Though most people do not even consider climatic and environmental conditions while choosing a foundation, it is important to do so. What is the type of climate where you live? Are you in a place that is cold, or are you in a place that is hot and humid? Your lifestyle and environment around you also make a difference.

According to them, you may want to choose a foundation with SPF in it, or one that is sweat-proof and waterproof. Or you may want a foundation that has moisturizers in it. The climate of the place you reside in also determines your skin tone.

1. What if I have sensitive skin?
→ Generally, for people with sensitive skin, it is advised to use silicon-based foundation, as it lessens the irritation. Powder-based foundations are the best ones as they do not have a clogging effect on your skin.

2. Is it essential to use sunscreen before applying foundation?
→ Applying sunscreen around 20 minutes before you apply foundation always helps. Your skin is protected not only from UV rays, but also from pollution. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, apply the sunscreen in minimal quantity.

3. Should a foundation be powder-based, cream-based, liquid-based, or mousse foundation?
→ Cream-based foundation works well for women with lines or wrinkles. Basically, it works well for mature skin. Women with dry skin use this type of foundation.

→ Powder-based foundation is recommended for women with oily, normal, or combination skin. It is not heavy on your skin. Try the latest range of mineral-based foundations.
→ Mousse-based foundation can be used when you need less coverage. It is the easiest to apply.

→ Try liquid-based foundation if you need the dewy look. Recommended for all skin types, it works well for women with dry skin.

4. Can I change my foundation shade from light to dark?
→ Yes, you can. Choose a darker shade during the day and a lighter one at night. The lighter shade at night will make your face look lighter.

5. Do I have to apply a different foundation shade for my eye area?
→ Yes, it is recommended to use a concealer for the eye area. You can apply it a few minutes before applying foundation to cover the dark circles.