How To Create The Perfect Face For You

Most women have a really tough time buying foundation. We've all made huge mistakes by purchasing the wrong shade, the wrong texture and have spent way too much money in the process. As a result, I thought it would be great to just review some practical guidelines for purchasing the foundation that just right for you.
1. First, decide the level of coverage you need. There are three types of coverage the first being minium which would include tinted moisturizers. This is what I use for my own face. I have freckles and I happen to like them so I choose not to cover them entirely. My favorite tinted moisturizer is from the Revlon Age Defying line. They not only have the perfect shade for me, but it contains anti-aging properties as well as an SPF, which is a must have for anyone, make-up or no make-up. The cost is under $15 and it is money well spent. You can also purchase a tinted moisturizer from Neutrogena, but only in a few shades (under $10) as well as from Kiss My Face (6 shades for around $10). The upside of using a tinted moisturizer is that because it is translucent, going a shade darker is not a problem at all and I would recommend going a bit darker instead of lighter as it is much more flattering to your skin tone. Medium coverage foundations are primarily liquid. They have more pigment and consistency than tinted moisturizers, but they give more coverage. It's important to blend carefully and match the shade to your skintone as closely as possible. Try to stick to an oil-free formula. Again, you can spend under $15 at most drugstores for a very good liquid foundation from Neutrogena to Cover Girl and Revlon, you have much to choose from. Cream-based formulas offer maximum coverage. These usually come in a stick or pot and have a heavier consistency than the liquid which provides maximum coverage. These are best for women who don't have oily complexions and they also can double as a concealer. One of my favorite stick foundations is from Signature Club A which you can purchase at Home Shopping.
2. You must determine a shade that is best for you. By doing this use the side of your face, near your jawline. We were taught to use the back of our hands, but in order to test the make-up for a compatible shade, use the place where the make-up is going...your face. It's best to test in natural light, but since you'll probably be in a store, that probably won't be possible. Find out the return policy where you plan on purchasing, just in case you want to return your make-up because it's the wrong shade. Also, have a store representative help you choose the right shade if one is available. That's what they get paid to do and a second opinion is always a good thing.
3. Other types of foundations include powdered mineral. My favorite is from Bare Escentuals, but this make-up isn't for everyone. It is all natural and does not contain talc, but it does have Titanium dioxide which can leave your skin looking a bit too shimmery. The trick is using the proper application brush so make sure you purchase the one recommended for that product and keep practicing with it until you get the desired results. I use this brand as well which is especially good for more special occasions where I need a more finished/polished look. Expect to spend around $30 or more, but this make-up will last you a very long time since you only use a small amount. Other types of foundation include mousse which are very light in texture, but provide excellent coverage and are great for oily skin. My daughter uses this kind and her favorites is from Maybelline. Their New York Dream Matte Mousse Foundation sells in most drugstores for around $9 in twelve shades. There are also spray-on foundations that are very much like the spray-on self tanners that are so popular. However, this would be my least favorite choice. They are expensive (anywhere from $30 to $60 a can) and are difficult to apply because of the inability to control the spray which can appear blotchy and leave clothing badly stained. However, if you must use this type of foundation, which really will give you an air-brushed effect if it is applied correctly, try spraying an application sponge first and then applying to your face.
4. Invest in a primer. Not only will a make-up primer give you a smoother application, but it will reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and set your make-up for all-day coverage. My favorites are from Laura Geller and Smashbox and both can be found at either Ulta or Sephora between $20 and $30. Again, a little goes a long way so they will last you a while before you need to go out and replenish.
5. Finally, as in anything else in life, the right tools make all the difference. If you are using any kind of liquid, creme, mousse or spray-on foundation, make-up sponges are a neccesity. They can be purchased in bulk in any drug, discount or specialty store so they are very accessible. Although round sponges are available, wedges are the very best for applying make-up evenly as their unique shape can move easily around all the areas of your face. If you are using a mineral foundation, then purchase the correct brush made just for that foundation. Don't think that the one you have at home will do the trick. The brushes are developed for that foundation to distribute it evenly and flawlessly. Invest in good tools and, if you take care of them, they will last a long time. These tools help you blend, blend, blend around the eyes, ears and jawline so that people don't see a mask, but rather see the real you instead!
I want to thank Problogger for inspiring me to write this post. Thanks!