The foundations of a flawless complexion

I like to think of the face as a canvas. Just like an artist would, we have to prep and prime the canvas to have a great end result. It only takes a few simple steps – and you can get a flawless make-up application that makes it look like you were born with perfect skin.

Forget the thick cakey foundation that would crack with a smile. Foundation has come a long way with a good foundation feeling the same as a moisturizer, with many different options to choose from.

Tinted moisturizers combine the benefits of a face cream with the skin-evening properties of a foundation. And as a bonus most come with sun protection. They're a good choice for normal and normal to dry skin that needs minimal coverage and create a perfect casual weekend look.

Liquid foundations are available in both moisturizing and oil-free formulas. They are easy to blend and can go from medium to full-coverage depending on how much you apply. Long-wearing, matte finish and are almost always oil-free and do really stay put. Most have a thin consistency that sets in place quickly, so blending must be fast and precise. Most blending mistakes can be fixed, but not as easily as with other types of liquid foundations.

Those with oily to very oily skin typically do best with this type of foundation.  Moisturizing liquid foundations usually have a slightly thicker texture than oil-free foundations and typically are easy to blend due to the amount of slip they have. The best in this category also offer helpful skin-repairing ingredients as well. Because this type of foundation offers a satin or satin-matte finish, they're perfect for women with normal to dry skin.

Stick foundations are essentially cream-to-powder foundations in stick form. If you want a cream-to-powder foundation and prefer the convenience of a stick these are an option, but they have drawbacks, which is why there aren't many of these being sold.

Most stick foundations go on thicker than powder or cream-to-powder foundations, which are fine for normal skin types but are more problematic for those with oily or blemish-prone skin. Plus, some stick foundations feel thick and heavy.

Because of their size and the type of packaging, stick foundations do travel well, but overall, even the best ones in this category should be approached cautiously.

Pressed-powder foundations come in a compact and work like regular pressed powders, only with a bit more coverage and ability to stay put. The best ones in this category have a wonderfully silky feel, and are easy to blend. Pressed powder foundations provide light to medium coverage and can work for normal to slightly dry or slightly oily skin types. If you have oily skin, powder foundations can look thick and clumpy; if you have dry skin, the powder will absorb moisture, making your skin drier.

Compact foundation, with its cream to powder formulation, is best for oily skin. They have a very creamy, almost greasy, appearance, but if you're using the best ones in this category, the creaminess will disappear after you blend them on, leaving you with a slightly matte, powdery finish. Coverage can go from sheer to full depending on the formula and how much you apply.To avoid looking cakey, many compacts come with different sponges that allow you to control the amount of coverage you get.

Tips
·         Use a damp brush or sponge to apply foundation

·         Do not use a foundation with a high SPF factor for an evening event, especially if there are photographers on the loose, as this will turn out white on photos!

·         For long lasting foundation and to take away shine, finish off with loose powder.
·         Before you start, use a cotton bud to remove excess moisturizer from the creases around your mouth and eyes. It will help your foundation stay all day.
 
·         Apply concealer under your eyes and highlighter to your cheekbones, centre of nose, and that spot right above your upper lip before foundation, for a glow that looks like it comes from within.
 
 This article first appeared in Vida magazine