This Is The Only Way You Should Apply Foundation
Foundation—it’s the all-important canvas for the rest of our makeup, but when it comes to technique, it always seems to be shrouded in mystery. Between what products to use and how to use them, it’s something you’ve got to get down to a science in order to achieve that flawless, yet miraculously natural-looking skin. For expert tips, we looked to Laramie, Owner and Founder of Book Your Look.
Step 1: Remove Makeup and Cleanse
Treat the skin with a cotton pad and a cleansing water which can be used as both a makeup remover and a way to prep the skin.
Pro Tip: “It’s best to make sure the skin is completely clean and prepped before applying moisturizer. Even if you aren’t wearing makeup, this sensitive cleansing water almost always removes leftover makeup, dirt, and grime from the skin. Behind the scenes at fashion week this cleansing water is what makeup artists use to remove makeup.”
Step 2: Moisturize to Prime the Skin
After skin is cleansed properly, use a rich, nourishing moisturizer, to rehydrate the skin.
Pro Tip: “It’s best to warm up the cream in between your hands then press it into the skin. If you’re more on the oily side, use a gel-based moisturizer that is matte and apply with just your fingertips or a foundation brush.”
Step 3: Apply Foundation with a Foundation Brush
Pro Tip: “Use a foundation brush and apply the foundation starting in the center of the face and blend out.”
When it comes to choosing a formula, look for something that looks natural, has a flawless finish, and feels weightless. You can’t go wrong with Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation .
Step 4: Gently Blend in a Rolling Motion
Start with a *damp* beauty blender because it softens the sponge and won’t absorb any of the product you just applied to your face.
Pro Tip: “Blend the foundation with a rolling motion and press it into the skin.”
Step 5: Conceal Blemishes and Redness
Tap on concealer (use something that’s super pigmented, like Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage) to hide any blemishes or redness that’s coming through.
Pro Tip: “I like to use a clean fingertip as the warmth of the hand helps blend it. It also adds just the right amount of product to cover the blemish.”
Step 6 : Set
You must set with a translucent powder, like NARS Light Reflecting Pressed Setting Powder. Using a soft, small, and natural hair brush, gently tap any excess product off then sweep the setting powder only over areas that tend to be shiny: in between the eyebrows, down and around the nose, under the eye, and on the chin.
Pro Tip: “Be sure not to over-powder! You still want your skin to look like skin.”
Step 7: Voilà
Congratulations—you’ve *officially* got glowing, movie star skin—own it.