Best Way to Apply Base Makeup

Foundation and tinted-moisturiser tips

The purpose of applying a base is to smooth out any flaws and make your skin appear even-toned. Base is not meant to cover your face like a mask, yet the biggest mistake that most women make is to cake it on, which looks unnatural and ends up accentuating rather than disguising any skin flaws.

• When buying a base, don’t scrimp: invest in a good-quality product that matches your skin tone exactly. Test the product on your face, not your hand, and check the result in daylight before purchasing it.

• Some make-up artists apply base with their fingers, while others use a sponge; whichever method you prefer, ensure that you blend well and smooth out any tell-tale lines around your jaw and hairline.
• If you have dry skin, you should use a hydrating oil-based foundation, while if you have an oily, combination or spotty skin, you should opt for an oil-free mattifying foundation which will keep oil at bay and is less likely to clogg the pores.
• You don’t need to apply base all over your face, only to the parts that need it.
• For a more natural look, use tinted mosturiser rather than foundation.
• Two-in-one foundation/powder compacts give a lighter coverage than liquid foundation and are great for touch-ups.

Powder tips

• Powder sets foundation and concealer, and comes in two forms: pressed and loose. Loose powder gives better coverage, while pressed powder is ideal to carry in your handbag for touch-ups.
• When applying loose powder, dip a velour powder puff, paddle brush or big, fluffy make-up brush into the pot before transferring the powder to the back of your hand. Tap the brush or give the puff a final shake before brushing or pressing the powder onto your face.

• In order to avoid that obvious powdery, matt look, a little is all that’s needed.
• Brush downwards to prevent the powder clogging up on your facial hairs.
• Bronzing powders will give you that sun-kissed look, but go sparingly, as they can look too obvious.