Foundation 101: Formula

One of the most amazing and frustrating things about makeup right now is the hundreds and hundreds of options available. Walking through Sephora, Ulta, or any drugstore gives more choices than we know what to do with!  Foundation, also known as cover-up or base, is a staple in creating flawless skin but can easily go south if the shade, finish, or formulation that is used doesn’t mesh with our skin!

Foundation is used to even out skin and create a smooth skin texture. Our goal with using foundation is to make our skin look better with it than without it, but it is not always clear how we accomplish that! This post will explain some of the more popular formulas and who each formula is best for!

Liquid

Liquid foundations are definitely the most popular formula, with products available in almost every price range with a magnitude of finishes and shades. A liquid foundation can be found for almost any skin type. It can be applied with a brush, sponge, or fingers. 
    
Oily: Look for oil free with a Matte Finish.

Combination: This can be a bit tricky depending on each persons needs, but try oil-free lighter foundation in the summer when it is warmer and you're more likely to sweat. In the winter try a more hydrating formula as there is less moisture in the air, which dries out our skin

Dry: Luminous finishes are great for dry skin because they are less likely to stick to any dry patches on your skin.

Normal: Any finish can work on normal skin types. It really depends on what you prefer! 

Cream (or Stick)

Cream Foundations tend to be extremely full coverage and will last all day. Cream has become increasingly popular again and variations can even be found in the drugstore. Like liquid you can find creams made for people of all skin types. 

Powder

Powder foundations are great for on-the-go application and for oily skin! Powder foundation can look extremely natural when buffed into the skin with a brush!

Tinted Moisturizer/BB Cream/ CC/ DD/ Probably ZZ

Tinted moisturizers are marketed under numerous names, but they all do basically the same thing. Some may be better for super dry skin, or better for blemish prone skin but they are all a light coverage for a very natural look.  I really like tinted moisturizers on days where I want to look put together without a lot of effort. Also, tinted moisturizers are great for people who are just starting to wear makeup because it blends in easily and normally feels very light on your skin! 

My Favorite Everyday Foundations-  
Personally I wear liquid foundations most days because it's easiest for me, but use powder on vacation and cream/stick foundation when I go out at night. 

Current Favorite: Clinique Beyond Perfecting in Shade .05 Breeze (Yes I am the lightest shade... I don't go out much) This is a full coverage heavy duty foundation that leaves the skin flawless. I have pretty normal skin, but this would also be great for oily skin. It may work on dry skin if you hydrate before application. At $27 it is a great mid-range foundation. 






Drugstore Favorite:  L'oreal True Match in Shade N1 (Did I mention I'm pale?) A liquid foundation with buildable coverage without feeling too heavy on the skin makes this perfect for just about anyone. If you have dry skin check out the Lumi True Match, another favorite of mine for that luminous look!  (Normally $7-$11)







High End Favorite: Givenchy Photo'Perfexion in Shade 4 Perfect Vanilla  (I actually only like this because I'm not the lightest shade). This is a lot like True Match, but blends easier and lasts longer.  This sells for $51 at Sephora. 











Remember, it's just makeup. If you don't like it, wash it off and start again.