The Ultimate Guide To Foundation

From liquids to powders, expert tips and application - we have created a beauty bible for all things foundation.

Choosing The Right Shade

Don’t think that you have to get the perfect shade match. What’s more important is getting the right undertone. The point of foundation is to make our skin look better, so you can cheat a little bit if you need a bit more warmth or radiance. But to do this, and still look natural, you need to get the undertone right. Fred Letailleur, YSL Makeup Artist for Northern Europe, advises: 'The easiest way is to put three shades you think are close to your natural colour on your cheek and blend. Don’t waste time putting it on your wrist or hands – choose three shades you think are close to your natural colour and dot them in a line on your cheeks. As you blend them it will be obvious which tone suits.'

Brush, Sponge or Fingers?

Fingers for oil based foundation

Foundation that is oil based will work better with fingers. As you work it into the skin, your fingers heat up the oil, which helps it melt into your skin.

Brush for fusion foundations

The new fusion foundations should always be applied with a brush. Letailleur explains: 'Fusion foundations are formulated with volatile oils which evaporate as they touch the skin. You don’t need to use the heat off your fingers to melt it into the skin – it will do that anyway when you blend with a brush.'

Sponge for powder foundations 

A sponge is best used with a powder because it will soak up liquid meaning it won't look too cakey. When used with a powder, a sponge makes it easier to apply thin layers. 'It is always best to build up foundation so start with less than you think you will need', says Letailleur. 'This will keep it natural and lightweight.'

How To Apply

'The biggest mistake women make is applying too much product. The best thing to do is always use less than you think you will need and then touch up the dark circles and rogue blemishes with conealer.'

1. Start with the cheeks and work your way outwards and upwards.

2. Blend sideways over the forehead, going right to the hairline.

3. Use left over product on the chin and neck.

4. Leave the nose till last as this is the centre of the face and the place where people focus on. As little product here as possible will create an illusion of being natural.

Our Top Edit of Foundations

Best for Glow: Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation, £34.50

Best for Natural: YSL Fusion Foundation, £30.50

Best for Radiance: Clarins True Radiance Foundation SPF15, £27

Best for Concealing: Tom Ford Traceless Perfecting Foundation SPF 15, £62

Best for Blending: Chanel Vitalumiere Loose Powder Foundation, £55 

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