When applying your foundation, tools and techniques are very important. Start in the center and spread out the product, since the center is usually where skin is the most uneven. It may be obvious to most, but downward strokes are the correct way.

You have three choices when it comes to application tools, and all three give you different coverage. First is a sponge which looks nice, but soaks up lots of product. Next are fingertips, which give you lots of coverage but can get messy.

A brush will give you the right amount of coverage, but the type of brush makes a difference as well. I used to use a flat brush, but these days my favorite is a dense round brush like the Tarte Airbrush Finish Bamboo Foundation Brush. For a lighter look, you could also use a wider brush that’s not as dense. For some reason, I gravitate towards angled brushes and that’s probably because they are more comfortable for those little corners, like along the nose.

Just like your eyeshadow, blending is key with foundation especially around the hairline and neck area. Some people even apply it on the ears, but I usually have my hair down so I don’t bother. 

Once you are done applying, set it with a powder. I usually skip this step, but I was recently shopping for a foundation, and while testing out my shade, the lady at the counter applied some Laura Mercier Translucent Setting Powder. I bought the foundation and continued to shop. I caught a glimpse of myself in the mirror and was blown away. My skin never looked so good. I called the counter from the car to find out exactly what she used on me, and it was really just a translucent powder. No wonder this product is so loved! It looked flawless but light and not cakey. I was sold!

Tip: Speaking of buying foundation, when you are looking for the correct shade, don’t try it on your hand. The best way to find your shade is by checking it on your jawline.

Aline Agopian