Jennifer Roberts

I want to start this article off by stating that you can apply foundation in almost any way and still get coverage. Will you look your absolute best if you go this route? Most likely not, but what were shooting for in this article is for someone to look at you and say “How is your skin so flawless?”

Most of the time when someone gets that kind of reaction it was done by a professional makeup artist. They know how to work makeup in with moisturizers and primers. They really perfect the canvas and massage the product in so it’s living within your skin, not on top of it. 

Think back to a time when you got your makeup professionally done maybe for a wedding or prom, how amazing your skin looked. These makeup artists have all the tips and tricks to getting that flawless skin we all desire. This is why we will be sharing tips that come right from professionals working in the makeup industry on perfecting the wonders of skin foundation. 

Make sure you have a clean, healthy canvas

You should be cleaning and moisturizing your skin daily to create a healthy base before applying your makeup. To accentuate your glow professionals recommend applying a hydrating mask followed by a lymphatic facial massage. For those of you that don’t know what a lymphatic facial massage is, it’s a massage that mainly focuses on facial drainage. It uses gentle brushing motions to reduce swelling in the eye and neck area.

When makeup artist Nina Park works with her celebrity clients she starts with a sheet mask that is tailored to their specific skin type. These sheets masks typically contain rose (for oiliness), aloe (for dryness), green tea (soothe inflammation), etc. Remember, the goal is to create a natural flush that makes the face feel more awake. Do some research to determine your skin type & it’s daily needs.

To prime or not to prime

You should take the time to prime. A primer may add an extra step to your routine but it will go a long way in perfecting the foundation on your skin. Primer helps your skin appear to be a perfectly smooth surface. Furthermore, if you have skin concerns such as redness, dullness, etc. color correcting primer can help even out your skin tone.

Be conservative

Always start by applying a small amount of foundation. Add more until you feel you have the right amount of coverage. The goal should be to only apply the foundation where you need it most so that your skin still looks like your skin. Because let’s be honest, no one wants their face to look caked in foundation. 

Apply from the center and move outward

You should only apply your foundation where it’s really necessary. Start in the center of your face, then the apples of your cheeks and slowly blend it out. You should also keep in mind the area around your mouth. It’s prone to yellow undertones and shadows. Some makeup artists recommend skipping the bridge of your nose for people with freckles. This will ensure the foundation looks as natural as possible. 

Tap DON’T rub

Whether you’re using a foundation brush or just your fingers, you should always apply your foundation in a stipple motion. Stipple motion means to gently tap the foundation onto your skin. You should avoid any wiping or rubbing motions because it will push the foundation around and cause streaks. 

Furthermore, the warmth of your fingertips actually helps make the skins and foundation melt together, perfecting your skin tone. Another option is a foundation brush, gently buff the foundation into your skin, the same as you would with your fingers.

Set it and then forget it

The best way to set your foundation is with a silky loose setting powder, it will ensure it won’t budge without dulling its finish. Dip a powder brush into the powder then tap or shake your brush to remove the excess. Lightly brush it across your face, using a heavier stroke on oily sections like the chin or nose.

Stack concealer where you need it most

If there are problem areas on your face where foundation just isn’t enough, for example, red spots, blemishes, under-eye circles, etc. dab concealer over them. After the concealer is applied, tap it into your skin and blend it without rubbing your foundations away. 

If you still can’t manage to get away from that cakey foundation texture, you need to stray away from your comfort zone. Many people struggle with perfecting their foundation in a natural way, and its for a simple reason. You can’t just apply one foundation to your face and expect it to look perfect and natural. Makeup industry professionals prove that multi-step and multi-product application is the only way to go if you want the flawless complexion you’re looking for. The actual color of the foundation is meant to be applied as a mix in with other skincare products. Additionally, the application method itself is widely important for massaging and brushing the color into your skin.

If you retain anything from this article let it be that you need to start with a foundation that matches your skin tone. Some brands don’t offer a large number of shades to their clients. Click here for makeup brands that offer a shade for every skin type. One ancient trick for matching foundation to your skin- test the foundation on your neck instead of hand or arm. It may be more tedious to test your foundation this way in the store, but you will get a more accurate feel for the shade.

Hopefully, by now you’ll be able to apply your foundation like a real makeup professional! Flawless skin doesn’t have to come with a huge price tag. Learning how to apply your foundation in a muti-step process is key to your makeup application. Additionally, practice makes perfect, if you don’t get it right the first time don’t feel discouraged. It takes many people years to perfect the art of makeup. If you still feel like you’re struggling, try watching a few makeup videos on the application technique!