Let's Face It...
"Laying down the correct foundation"
“How do I know which foundation is right for me?” This is probably the number one question I get asked and no wonder! There are hundreds of shades and formulas to choose from. Go too dark and you look like you’re wearing a mask. Go too light and you end up looking like Morticia Addams. So what’s a girl to do?? If you don’t have a makeup artist at your disposal, I highly recommend going to a department store or Sephora where you can test out the products before you buy. You might spend a little more but it’ll save you time and money in the end. No more time wasted scouring the poorly lit aisles, peering through plastic packaging, trying to determine if that color is the one for you to only get it home...and nope, it’s another $10 down the drain. Now, if the drugstore route still appeals to you, I suggest checking out a store with a great refund policy like Rite Aid.
So, let’s begin with formulas. Is your skin dry, oily, or combination? If you're dry, choose a liquid. Liquids have a creamy consistency and will keep the skin nicely hydrated. If your skin is oily, use oil-free liquid or a powder foundation which will keep you shine free. If you have combination (dry and oily) skin, I suggest going with a liquid.
Next, the daunting task of trying to find the right shade is no more!! Foundation is supposed to match your skin perfectly, so when applied the infamous demarcation line along the jaw is not present. And Ladies, you are not supposed to match the foundation to your wrist...ever! I don’t know about you but I want my makeup to match my face not my wrist. When testing your foundation apply it along your jaw line. When it blends beautifully into your skin you’ve hit the jackpot! Another trick is to step near a window or go outside with a mirror during the day when trying on makeup. The harsh lights in the department stores can be tricky and so can some of the sales people. Let them guide you but use your best judgment. Let’s face it; if you don’t like the look or feel of it in the store, at home in the makeup drawer it goes never to be seen again.
I’ve searched decades (and no, I’m not exaggerating) for a foundation that I can call my favorite. None are drugstore brands BUT that’s not to say you cannot find a decent foundation there. If you have found one that you absolutely love and it matches perfectly...congratulations!
Here are a few that are high up on my list:
Beauty Society: $28.00 (www.beautysociety.com) I use their liquid foundation every single day and on most of my clients. It is formulated with 10 anti aging ingredients, is oil and paraben free, color adjusting, long wearing, and a little goes a very long way! They have only 4 shades of liquid and 5 of mineral which can match any fair to dark complexion. This keeps the confusion at a minimum. Plus they have a 1 year, no questions asked, return policy. You just can’t beat that!
Cover FX $40.00 (www.coverfx.com) Cover FX has everything from full coverage creams to lightly tinted moisturizers. They have a full range of shades (over 20) which means your perfect match is out there! These are amazing products but the wide variety could get quite overwhelming so I highly recommend asking for assistance. I am also happy to report that they are oil, fragrance, paraben free and a little will go a very long way!
MAC $27.00 (www.maccosmetics.com) MAC has a wide range of shades and formulas to choose from. They also have so many locations all over the country that it makes finding a MAC counter very easy. Again, I suggest asking for assistance when trying to choose which shade and formula is right for you. I have had great experiences at these counters. The staff has always been very helpful and friendly...but as I said earlier, use them only as a guide and go with what YOU feel comfortable in.
Good luck in search of your perfect match!! Check back as I will be discussing makeup techniques, product reviews, using the right tools, and how important it is to take care of your skin!