The Foundation...

If you wear foundation it provides a base for your makeup. It can cover imperfections, even your skin tone out and give your skin a flawless finish.

When I first entered the world of foundation, I didn't realize how many brand options you had. I was overwhelmed by everything. Not only did I need to pick a brand, but I needed to pick the correct shade for my skin. I have sensitive skin, so I also had to take that into consideration. Then there was the powder vs liquid, light coverage vs buildable coverage, sunscreen vs no sunscreen... and the list goes on and on.

Fun fact about me: I actually didn't wear foundation until I was in my 20's. I had only ever worn eyeshadow, blush, mascara, Lipstick/gloss, and let's not forget GLITTER. Foundation isn't a must, but if you do wear foundation there are some things to consider.

• Not every foundation is created equal. I have tried many foundations over the years from the cheaper drug store brands to the high-end expensive brands. I've found that not all foundations work for every skin type. Some can make your skin feel oily and others can make your skin look/feel dry. So, it's important before starting to know your skin type.

• Know your skin type. Is your skin oily, dry, or combination? Depending on what skin type you have, depends on the type of foundation you will want to look for. For oily skin you may want to consider powder or a matte finish. If you have combination skin a powder or liquid foundation typically work well. Where if you have dry skin, you will want to look for a foundation that also hydrates.

• Apply it wrong and it can look caked onto your skin. There are many things to consider when you apply the foundation. If you are using a liquid foundation are you going to use a brush or blender? If you are using powder are you going to use the puff that usually comes with it or a brush? Some things I have learned over the years about applying foundation is:

• Use a blending sponge. I get it damp before applying my liquid foundation and concealer. The reason I use a blending sponge is because brushes can exfoliate your skin while you apply the foundation causing a cakey look. Using a brush isn't wrong, it's just not my preference. I found that when I do use a brush my foundation doesn't look as flawless.

• I currently don't use a powder foundation as I have combo/sometimes dry skin, but when I have; I have always applied it with a blender and stamped it on - right or wrong - this is what I have done... then I would blend it out with a very soft brush.

• It's important to prime your skin for your foundation, this doesn't mean using a primer necessarily. It just means if you use moisturizers or serums, making sure they are absorbed into your skin. If they aren't - your foundation can end up looking streaky and at times it won't stay on your skin, giving you an uneven foundation.

• Why I chose to wear a foundation with sunscreen. For a few years I worked with an esthetician that was very knowledgeable and I've talked to many dermatologists and the one thing they all say and drill into you is... wear sunscreen. Wearing sunscreen seems so simple, but for my sensitive skin it's not. Since wearing foundation I've always picked a foundation with sunscreen in it. I already know my skin won't react with the brand I use, and it saves me from forgetting to apply it before I put my foundation on.

• Decide what kind of coverage you'd like. Since I didn't wear foundation until I was in my 20's, I've always gone with a more natural coverage and on the lighter side. I tend to pick foundations with a buildable coverage as well. The reason I do this, is if I get a breakout of some sort or a flaw in my skin... I want to be able to cover it comfortably without looking like I have 5 layers of foundation on. You have to decide what you need. Most stores that I've gone to will let you sample them and often times let you take a little bit home to try or they have a pretty good return policy (meaning if you only used 30% or less they let you return it).

If you’ve never worn foundation before and are looking to start you can always consider a tinted sunscreen or a tinted moisturizer to start out. Whatever your reason is for wearing foundation, whether it’s to even out your skin tone, or to just complete the look and give you a flawless finish… know you are beautiful just as you are!