OT : Make up Foundation...please explain - YouLookFab Forum

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OT : Make up Foundation...please explain

Isabel

Veteran

Scarlet's thread on foundation made me realize that I don't really "get" foundation. I am not sure what to be looking for or expecting. So how do you even start ? Do you set an expectation of no pores, no age spots and then go from there ? Do you go to a make up counter ? I feel that I want to explore this, but I am not even sure what I am looking for in a foundation and what it should do for my skin. ( I am not even sure what "light" coverage means..maybe I should just take a class. )

Thanks in advance ladies for any clarification on this.

General

22 replies

Latest reply was from Louise

Transcona Shannon

Veteran

Up until a couple of years ago, I didn't wear foundation at all. I was fairly lucky to have decent skin and never felt the need for it...until menopause hit. I started to get a few brown spots from age and sun exposure, some blemishes and just an overall "dullness" to my skin. I wanted to have my skin look more "even" but did not want to have a phoney made-up looking appearance. Full coverage to me means my own skin may not show through - I do have a few freckles I'm fond of and wanted them to show through so knew I wanted only light-medium coverage. I still wanted it to look like my skin. When I first went to a few make up counters I tried to explain that I wanted a natural looking appearance, just more even toned and polished looking. I must have tried about 20 different varieties with varying results. I wasn't happy with any of them - I either looked greasy, or chalky, or dry, or yellow, or....well, you get the idea. I had gone to my dermatologist for a check up (skin cancer runs in my family) and she was the one who actually suggested Bare Minerals. It's certainly not for everyone, but for me it has been fantastic.

ManidipaM

Veteran

Light coverage equals a certain translucence. If you have uneven pigmentation (like age spots), that won't cover them completely. On the other hand, these lighter formulations are less pigment-loaded, which means there's less goop to settle into wrinkles and folds, or catch on dry flaky skin.

Pores can be minimized by foundation, but don't necessarily disappear --- depends on the size of the pores. And you ideally want non-comedogenic formulations that don't clog your pores and cause breakouts.

For localized marks (old acne scars, age spots, freckles, undereye shadows), a concealer that goes under foundation is a good bet.

What you're looking to get primarily is even skin tone, minimised lines and pores, maybe a bit of sheen or a bit of blotting if you have oily skin (depends on the formula), and a good base to hold your colour cosmetics in place and to let them show their true colours better.

And yes, a make-up counter with free demo is a good place to start to learn techniques for applying and blending, as well as to help find a decent shade. It's possible to figure out your shade without putting it on your face, but much harder to do.

Scarlet

Veteran

Up until now I used a very light coverage foundation or moisturizer just to hide the pores on my nose and even out my skin tone a little (but still let freckles show). Lately though I am more self concious about weird pigmentation on my jaw and hairline, so I would like something with more coverage, which I suppose means more pigment. I notice that some formulations give a very dewy finish (light reflecting in a non-oily way) and some are more matte. There is a big difference in how well some formulations settle into your skin, versus sitting on top of it or settling into pores and fine lines. Some don't last long. Some make you break out. Sky is the limit, pretty much

Makrame

Veteran

I generally don't wear much makeup and feel fairly clueless about it so am interested in responses you will get. But here are my 2 cents.

I tried a few tinted moisturizers and foundations over the years (nothing expensive, for the most part). None of them really looked "natural" to me. As a result, I have been using mineral makeup (I use Everyday Minerals, which is a cheap version of mineral makeup and can be purchased as small samples). I can cover up dark circles under the eyes, reduce redness or blemishes (maybe not completely but they become much less noticeable) and it take me 2 minutes to apply. I use their concealers and foundation - sometimes only foundation since I don't see much difference between the two.

The one area where all types of foundation are bad for me is the T-zone - anything oily just gets oilier with makeup. I found this primer for oily skin http://meowcosmetics.com/primp.htm and use it under mineral makeup if I really want to powder my nose. It seems to help.

Oh, and I have an acquaintance to used to work at the makeup counter at Macys - she says that most people working there don't know much about the intricacies of makeup, really - their training is primarily in salesmanship, even though they are "supposed" to be experts in makeup application.

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

It's a very personal preference, Isabel. I have never worn foundation because I find the coverage too heavy.

I do wear a tinted moisturizer because it shines up my skin just that much more (which I think looks attractive) but it still looks natural - you can still see all my veins, uneven bits, pores, lines and freckles. The tinted moisturizer does not give me an even skin tone.

I really like the look of dewy, shiny skin that shows the so called "imperfections". I don't use concealer either. So in this regard, I am in the minority because I do cover up my skin!

christieanne

Veteran

It depends really on what your goal in wearing foundation or other face product is. You may decide you don't want to wear it all all (perfectly fine not to!).

Is there something in your skin that you are looking to enhance or cover?

I wear a light base or tinted moisturizer 80% of time. My goal is only to slightly cover and even out skintone. If I have a spot or pigmentation mark or pimple then I use a bit of concealer over the base to add some coverage. I do have oily skin and semi-large pores so I also use a mattifying primer (but they make many variations) to smooth out pores and make them less obvious.

There are times like a formal occasion or a really stressful week or more hormonal breakouts where I feel I want extra coverage and have a full coverage foundation ready for those times.

I think foundation can help people feel more confident and look more "finished" but it can be too heavy or cake into lines and pores (not to mention being the wrong shades) if worn with a heavy hand.

Mineral makeup is pretty easy. I used Bare Escentuals for a few years but it started making me breakout and didn't look as good anymore either so I switched back to a liquid.

You should be able to find a good color match with help of a good makeup artist/sales associate. MAC is really a good place to try. They look like they are all heavily made up with over the top eye makeup but they won't do that to you unless you want it
Other lines I have loved are Laura Mercier and Nars. The foundation is a bit more spendy than MAC but you can get good advice there and they have good color options.

Check the foundation color in natural light before you commit! Especially at Nordstrom, the lighting is really dark.

Isabel

Veteran

Oh my Gosh ! Thank you ladies ! I used tinted sunblock years ago, I can look very pale in the Winter so I like it. It rubbed off on my collars and scarves though, so eventually I stopped using tint.

Like you Angie, I don't mind the "imperfections", though I am starting so get some redness around my nose that got me very interested in Scarlet's thread. I just hate all the experimenting back and forth, especially since I don't really have a goal..

I do have some BE samples of foundation but then I heard not to wear any lotion underneath it and that it needs a special application ...and now I think that I didn't like it because I don't know how to apply it or anything else ! LOL !

Makrame, that really surprised me about the make up counter..I thought they were trained. I am pretty sure that everyone at the MAC counter is a make up artist, so I assumed it was true of everyone.

I think that I want to take some lessons on application at least. Maybe not for every day, but I would like to look a little better on special occasions.

Thank you all soooo much !

( Angie, do you change your make up routine for a special occassion ? I think that I notice you wear darker lipstick... )

Anonymous

I used to need the heavy coverage, since I suffered from cystic acne. I no longer use any foundation, only moisturizer and sunscreen, and a bit of concealer to hide my dark circles and some pigmentation scarring. I use bare minerals but not on a daily basis. Bare minerals can be really problematic for some people so I suggest it only if you are willing to spot try it for a few weeks.

I just wanted to put a word of caution regarding foundation. Before introducing any foundation to your daily routine, try it for a week or so in the same area of your face. Foundations are the biggest culprits when it comes to breakouts and acne problems. Always look for the labels " non-comedogenic" or "non- acnegenic" if your skin is prone to breakouts. Since everyone's skin is so different, the most harmless foundation for one person can be the biggest problem for the next.

Also, I strongly suggest not to go for any MAC foundation, if your skin is acne or rosacea prone. They are known to be the biggest offenders. Just pay attention to the complexion of some of the makeup artists at MAC and you'll see what I'm taking about.

Meredith1953

Veteran

I have several items I use. I use a light tinted moisturizer to even it out if it looks a little ruddy or blotchy. On good days just a translucent powder with sunscreen is all I use. I find that medium to full coverage foundation just settles in lines and doesn't feel natural to me. Foundation is tricky to match so going to a counter is a good idea. Foundation can also be mixed with a little moisturizer to thin it out and sort of stippled on with a dampened sponge. I saw a tutorial on doing it that way and it made sense you can control placement and coverage depth.

Victoria

(website)

Veteran

Isabel, try a sample of BE from Sephora-if you are looking for light sheer coverage that is very natural looking, this can't be beat. In terms of wearing moisturizer with it here are my five cents-I wear sunscreen under it every day so you can wear moisturizer under it, you just have to let it fully absorb. As for application-shake out small amount into the cover, dip a fluffy brush into it(best brush I found was from BE as well for application), tap off excess and brush into your face in circular motion until it looks blended. that's it, nothing complicated. If you have BE store near you, go there and ask one of the SA to demonstrate the technique. And if BE breaks you out, try Everyday Minerals or Jane Ereydale(I forget the spelling, sorry) both available online and I heard good things about both brands

Elly

Veteran

For just a slight bit of redness in one spot, you'd probably be better off with the type of concealer that is a light liquid and comes with a wand like a lipgloss unless you have a lot of redness on your cheeks around your nose, not just the creases, ect. It is easier to apply, blend (with fingers), and you can apply it in just that spot without having to do a ton of blending/drawing attention to other minor skin imperfections. Covergirl and maybeline both make very very light ones in a good range of shades, and if you don't need serious coverage for breakouts or dark circles, imo it isn't worth it to pay for more expensive formulations.

For more dispersed redness, a powder-type foundation like bare minerals (small learning curve, but if you don't ask much of it, it covers redness well), or tinted moisturizer or light foundation might be better. Liquid foundation (even a light one) has a much steeper learning curve and really requires sponges or brushes. I prefer brushes-- you need a lot more artistry to make foundation look good.

Patty

Veteran

Good question Isabel.

As an observation and peach fuzzy chick----I have never used make up--I had thought of it many times for special occasions but it scares me (like lipstick on a pig)-- some things I've seen on others such as the caking in lines and pores but what bothers me now since I've seen so much of it is where the makeup sits on the peach fuzz on woman's faces. Their skin looks beautiful but there is a makeup glow still in their outer cheeks/jawline fuzz--don't like it (Yeah--some things are insurmountable to me). Is this caused by technique, product or application or just the hazard of making up? If anything it kill the 'natural' look.

velvetychocolate

Veteran

If you're not used to wearing foundation, then I'd really recommend a 'tinted moisturizer' instead of an actual foundation makeup. If still bugged by some slight imperfections, you can apply a tiny bit of concealer over top of the tinted moisturizer, just on the spots that bother you.

Also, it's pretty tough to mess up application with tinted moisturizer. Just apply it like a lotion on your face (lightly), and you're done! There aren't going to be a kazillion shades to choose from either, so again - a lot easier for those who don't want "foundation" or do not want to have to fuss.

I agree with Elly on the wand-style concealers that you can find at the drugstore or grocery store. They seem to have a lighter and slightly creamier consistency than those sold in a tube or a little pot, which means they blend in better and won't "cake" or crease etc. They definitely help cover, but they aren't all thick like some of the heavy-er duty types of concealer.

Not sure if you have an Ulta store in your area, but if you do - this might be a good place to look around. They carry drugstore brands and some of the more expensive brands, all in the same store. I notice Ulta stores are usually very well lit, and bright inside (unlike Sephora stores). This makes a huge difference (imo) in terms of finding the right colour/formula. Plus, you can usually get one of the SA's to help you find a good colour match, and it won't matter if it's just a drugstore brand or one of the higher-end brands. Personally, I find it kind of tough to pick out a good colour at the drugstore or grocery store.

Meanwhile, I could have sworn Kari once posted a fabulous explanation/tutorial and review of her success with mineral makeup. If I find it, I'll post it here.

Elly

Veteran

Patty--- The caking tends to be using the wrong formula or apply too heavily, putting it over too much sunscreen/moisturizer, or if you have oily skin (and often a different formula can help). The peach fuzz glow is something some women get with a powder foundation. Most ladies don't need a lot of coverage around their hairline or jawline unless they have or have had acne in that area, so going very light can help. With bare minerals and similar foundations the "buffing" motion can help get makeup on the skin and knock the loose stuff that would float on the surface off. You can also run a clean brush or light hand or tissue over those areas to take the floaty extras off the hair.

Liquids applied with a brush tend to seal my fuzziness down or get it down to the skin and wipe the extra off the hair. It is also always and option to blend very little makeup into those areas (generally You apply to the T-zone and cheeks first where you need the most product and blend outward, at which time you have less product on your brush or sponge). Light foundations and tinted moisturizers can have a semi-transparent quality, which limits how it lays on hair, too. Moisturizing first helps for the liquids, but not always for a powder as it can attract makeup to the hairs.

A lot of times older ladies with significant lines might prefer to go back to a lighter formula that does more evening that "hiding"-- and less ends up clinging to wrinkles to accentuate them.

Jjsloane

Veteran

I use it (and have used some form of foundation since my teens when I started wearing makeup) I use BE mineral makeup, but am fortunate not to have had a breakout with it (I think Amy had a horrible experience with it) I just like the even base I get to my face since I have a few age spots (sun), slight redness from rosacea in my 30's. There is a video of application of the mineral makeup (highly recommend you get good brushes for this). I spritz a makeup setting spray lightly so I don't look too powdery. (I use Skindinavia) I have also just stared trying some tinted moisturizers/beauty balms for weekend use. I've tried the Ganier BB which is nice (not enough times to give a full review but it's available at Target or drugstores) and Clinique cityblock which is tinted moisturizer with sunscreen so it does a lot. They are light coverage (meaning don't block out spots or freckles, just kind of even it all out a bit) with a little sheen for a youthful glow. I know I sound like a commercial. I would recommend visiting some counters and asking for trials and samples to find what you like before you plunk down good $ on anything.

lyn*

(website)

Veteran

If you find foundations to be too heavy, I make my own tinted moisturizer - use any base and add in enough liquid foundation to give a bit of coverage (extremely sheer) I love it!

nicoleb

(website)

Veteran

Since your unsure about shades and the coverage you want I say just to pick up a bunch of samples from various makeup counters (they'll shade match you and then you can decide in natural light if they got it right).

I personally don't like most tinted moisturizers because I dont find them long lasting. A little trick you can do with foundation is to first wet your brush and then apply to your face. This will sheer out your foundation a bit but still more coverage than a TM and lasts a lot longer.

Deborah

Veteran

I love mineral foundation. I have been using one for a few years having changed from using a cream foundation. I expect it to cover my freckles, create an even skin tone but still look relatively natural. I also use concealer under under my eyes as I seem to need a little help in that area most days, I use Maybelline Mineral Makeup daily and I love it. I also use Olay Total Effects "touch of foundation" - it's a tinted moisturizer, and Maybelline Age Rewind Cream foundation at other times, when I want less or more coverage.

Isabel

Veteran

Oh I LOVE all these tips ! Thank you all so much.

Patty , I have never heard that expression before, but that is exactly how I feel my skin looks with foundation. I might even add that it is like a fuzzy orange peel looking. I don't think that I look that way without foundation...my kids would have told me by now, as well as my mom ! LOL.

I am going to try your suggestions. It is becoming quite clear that there is a "learning curve" to application ( thanks Elly ). I don't know why I assumed it would be easy...maybe I watched Carmindy too much. Cindy Crawford once said that it took an average of 4 hours to do her face for modeling shows. Yikes ! ( No ladies, I am not that delusional, I know I won't look like Cindy !! )

JJ, I will look for the videos. It didn't dawn on me to look on youtube. I have good brushes. I use them for blush and concealer. I love make up brushes ( I am embarrassed to admit because I wear very little make-up..mostly concealer under my eyes, but my brushes are really nice ! LOL ).

Deborah, thanks ! I am leaning toward a more even tone and I don't mind if my sunspots ( mine are not freckles ) show. I think I want to go "lighter" on my skin.

Lyn, what a great tip ! This will be my starting point. It is becoming clear that I need to take some time and "play" with this.

VC and Elly...ahhhhh...I use a thick, pot concealer under my eyes, which I like but it looks terrible on the spots on my face. I will go lighter. I am actually going to try diluting it with face lotion per Lyn's suggestion.

VC, there is an Ulta relatively close to my house. I have been there and like it for the reasons you mentioned, but I mostly wander around in a haze and buy make up brushes for the fantasy make up I don't own !

Zap, that is a great suggestion. I seem to go full steam ahead with things. I actually applied the BE sample all over my skin last night after reading the suggestions here and my skin started burning about 5 minutes later. It was weird. I am thinking I may not be able to do powder, but I will check out Jane Iredale ( spelling ? ) like Victoria suggested. Thanks Victoria !

Nicole, great tip ! Thank you !

Meredith, YES ! I read all these things and ads about stuff that doesn't settle, but it all seems too and I thought I just didn't know what I was doing. I just can't get my make up to levitate ! So I am going to try the lighter stuff.

You ladies are so great !

Vix

Veteran

Hi Isabel --

Not an expert here but given your cancer recovery I might suggest you look for organic/"green"/non-toxic makeup -- or at least consider it.

It's complicated and again, novice here -- but I found a very brief guide via a quick Google:

http://www.learnvest.com/2011/.....fe-makeup/

These are allegedy the top "safe" US brands (+ 1 Australian line):
http://blog.nurturenatureproje.....e-us-2009/

[ETA: Jane Iredale products make their cut]

These days I use Alima Pure mineral foundation and blush. It meets the stricter-than-US European standards for natural cosmetics.

Alima also sends free samples, has lots of tips on their site, and IIRC offers about 60 colors of foundation.

http://www.alimapure.com/

Louise

Veteran

I can recommend Jane Iredale make up I use their blusher and eyeshadow and it's one of very few not to irritate my eyes I've not tried their foundation but I do use Dream tint which is good x

Louise

Veteran

I just had a lightbulb moment! I was mooching on beauty blogger sites and 1 girl said she didn't want a foundation which covered so well that you need a pile of other makeup to make yourself look normal. At that moment it clicked why I can't get on with many foundations.
I'm currently using Lily Lolo powder foundation just a light sweep which tones down any high discolouration but still leaves my natural skin to show through. Curl my eyelashes add Blinc mascara and comb through. Sweep on Jane Iredale blusher in winter or bronzer in summer, clear mascara through my eyebrows and lip balm and Elizabeth Arden tinted 8 hour lipbalm. Takes 10 minutes if that and just looks like a more polished version of me. I have worn this pretty much continuously since Christmas, I have never worn makeup this regularly in my whole life x