Whether you are dashing to the convenience store or getting dressed up for an LBD-and-stilettos event, a flawless foundation can give you catwalk confidence.
While there are different foundation types, liquid foundation is one of the most popular options with a consistency that is easy to blend and a smooth finish.
Liquid foundation comes in different formulas depending on your needs including oil-free, waterproof, and 24-hour lasting foundation. Choosing the best match for your skin can be tricky. You need to consider your skin type, skin tone, finish option, and amount of coverage. In this liquid foundation buying guide, we break down everything you need to know to choose the right foundation for flawless skin.
How to Choose Liquid Foundation
One of the most important areas of your beauty routine is skincare. Consider the below factors above anything else when choosing the right liquid foundation for your skin.
Skin Type
Different skin types will display a better finish with certain formulas. Knowing the requirements of your skin will help you find the right foundation match.
Dry Skin
Dry skin requires a moisturizing foundation that is not greasy. Avoid matte-finish foundations if you have dry skin since these can potentially exaggerate dry flaky patches.
Oily Skin
Foundations for oily skin will help absorb excess oil, control shine, and cover blemishes.
Combination Skin
The best foundation for combination skin will provide the best of both: oil-free, yet rich in hydrating components to nourish dry areas. Choosing a foundation on which you can build is ideal so that dry areas can get full coverage while oilier patches can breathe.
Mature Skin
Mature skin can be dryer and benefits from anti-aging foundations with moisturizing properties.
Foundation Coverage
The liquid foundation coverage you choose can be light/sheer, medium, or full coverage. The amount of coverage you choose will depend on your personal preference, skin type, and even the time of year.
If you want to let your complexion show and just even out your skin tone for a natural glow, a light coverage foundation is what you are looking for. BB creams (blemish balms) can be a good choice for light coverage as they moisturize and lightly cover imperfections.
Medium coverage foundation will cover minor imperfections, yet still look natural, leaving the skin with breathing room.
As its name suggests, full coverage leaves no skin showing at all. It creates a flawless base with zero dark spots, blemishes, scarring, shadows, or redness.
Regardless of the coverage you choose, using concealer to cover small imperfections, acne, or dark circles is best. Foundation works hand in hand with concealer for a flawless finish. It evens out the skin tone and prepares the skin for the application of makeup.
Finish Options
Liquid foundation finish options can be dewy, satin, velvety, or matte. They are very much a case of personal preference, so consider whether you like glowy skin with a little shine or a completely matte look with a neutral tone.
A dewy finish gives you a healthy shiny look. If your skin is already on the oily side, this is not the best option as it will turn oily quicker than other finishes.
Satin and velvety finishes will leave your skin looking natural and are almost like a second skin. They allow you to play with bronzers, blushes, and other powders without being patchy.
A matte foundation finish offers no shine and provides a very neutral, sophisticated look.
Foundation Shade
Getting the right shade of foundation may take a little trial and error. Don’t try to match the foundation to the skin color on your arm as it is a lot darker than the tone of your face. Your best bet is to find a spot towards the center of your face and blend it outwards towards your jawline or hairline to match the sides of your cheeks and the middle of your neck.
If you can’t decide between two very close matches, go with the lighter one. Foundation oxidizes and naturally becomes a little darker with wear as it mixes with the oils on your face. You can also warm the tone with a bronzer if needed. It is important to check the foundation in good natural lighting.
The shade will differ during seasons. Skin tends to warm up in spring and summer. Even if you wear sunscreen all the time, you will likely still need to adjust the color.
When choosing a foundation shade also consider the undertones of your skin.
If you have a warm complexion and naturally tan easily, choose a shade with yellow undertones.
If you turn pink in the sun, rather than getting an immediate tan, your complexion is on the cooler side. A foundation with pink undertones is best in this case. You can also go with neutral shades that are easier to match on different skin tones and adjust by mixing in other colors or adjusting with bronzers and powders.
People Also Ask
Q: How should liquid foundation be applied?
A: Add a small amount of foundation to a damp sponge or beauty blender. Work from the center of your face and blend the foundation outwards in circular movements for an even and natural finish. Use any extra foundation to adjust problem areas like blemishes or dark under-eyes.
Q: Is CC cream the same as liquid foundation?
A: Color-correct creams offer semi-sheer coverage to improve uneven skin tone. They are formulated to hydrate and usually contain sun protection. This is a very light alternative to foundation and although it won’t provide excessive coverage it is a good option if you just want a moisturizing pick-me-up.
Q: Can a tinted moisturizer serve as a liquid foundation?
A: Tinted moisturizers are hydrating formulas that also include a toning pigment. They have a light texture and smooth out skin tone for a ‘no makeup’, dewy look.
Q: Should foundation be darker than your skin or lighter?
A: Liquid foundation should be a shade or two lighter than your skin tone. When you use contour or bronzer the foundation will blend it together for the perfect look.