Even if you are a make up OG, I mean a make up enthusiast with knowledge right from heaven (make up artists included) you can’t tell me you never struggled a tiny bit with picking the best foundation shades and undertones before becoming a master at it.
My people! this knowledge I am about to share, was impacted by two lovely ladies/make-up artists I became acquainted with recently. Ever since I listened to this beautiful lecture, my make up life never remained the same. Ill’d be splitting this post into two owing to the magnanimity of the subject matter.
Before we go into foundation shades and undertones, it is important to note that there are a gazillion brands of foundations out there. Even as a product junkie, I haven’t scratched the surface yet.
These endless foundation options in the market range from skincare-infused formulas to radiance-boosting liquids, powders, and creams.
They are most times made in varieties to suit different purposes, therefore to guide foundation choices, skin types and needs should be foremost on your mind.
Let’s have a quick foundation overview, shall we?
To the best of my knowledge, there are basically 6 foundation types, according to their consistencies. They include;
1. Liquid Foundation
These often come in a water-in-silicone base, and allows for a streak-free, easy application unlike the other types. I dare say it is the most popular foundation type in beauty stores.
This might also be because some liquid foundation formulas come with additional skincare ingredients such as built-in moisturizers, hyaluronic acid, and SPF, which help to keep the skin hydrated and protected at all times.
Most liquid foundations have a buildable medium to full coverage, but what makes them unique is their finishing. They could either have a dewy or matte finish. For those with super dry skin, it is always advisable to proceed with a foundation that gives a dewy finish while those with Oily skin would do better with a matte finishing foundation.
However, please note that Liquid foundations that give high coverage tend to cause whiteheads/blackheads and are notorious for clogging the pores. Oil and sweat could also cause them to fall apart and look patchy.
2. Powder foundations
- Compact pressed foundations: These are usually light weight and super easy to apply. The light coverage they offer contribute to their inability to last long; we could say they are more suited for minimalists. They are known for reducing shine on the T zones but are hardly ever used all over the face. Compact pressed foundations should be applied over a good/quality hydrating primer for best effects.
- Mineral powder foundations: If you are some one with super sensitive skin, then these would fly so well for your make up routine. They give the 2-in-1 solution: with the coverage of a classic foundation and the mattifying texture of a loose powder.
3. Cream Foundations
These are generally not advisable for those with oily skin, they are more suited for mature and dry skin types due to their hydrating properties. However if an oily skin type insists on a cream foundation, they can be paired with an oil control moisturizer, a matte finish shine control primer, or blotted with a powder and a good setting spray to seal the beat.
4. Serum Foundation
I have actually never used one of these before, however illd give you the scoop on what they are and the benefits they exude.
So, Serum foundations, are foundation fluids/skin tints that are formulated with hydrating ingredients to nourish your skin. These ingredients are most times similar to those found in skin care products as in liquid foundations. They leave the skin feeling smooth and supple after application. A few drops usually go a long way, though it is light weight, it certainly does not compromise on coverage. They are perfect for those who dislike heavy make-up, but the downside is that they don’t wear for too long.
5. Stick Foundation
These are usually used to cover blemishes, dark circles, and other skin imperfections.
They come in an easy to use format with thick consistency and small size making it great for sneaking into your purse or make up bag. They are however seldom used for all round face make up but instead for targeted make up.
6. The BB and CC Cream
These are new age foundations with special benefits. For instance, the Blemish balm cream foundations create a lasting make up base with good coverage. They are good for evening out the skin tone while moisturizing and providing a touch of color. The CC cream which stands for color correcting cream, evens the skin tone as well, and is often hydrating with anti aging properties.
Yep, my work here is almost done! These are the foundation types that come to mind.
If any other type that I missed out comes to mind, please feel free to add it in the comment section darling. My next make up post would be the concluding part of “Picking the right foundation” where we delve into the colour theory and foundation undertones.
It is always a pleasure loves, do check back when you can. Ciao
