If you’re like us, then you find one method of makeup application that works and you stick with it for life. Maybe it’s laziness, or maybe it’s the fear of having to try something new that may not work out. Whatever it is, it can really hinder any chances at innovation when it comes to our makeup routine. Throughout our makeup wearing years, our skin texture will change, trends will shift, and new and exciting products will hit the market. So, if you have been applying your foundation the same way since high school, then it’s time for a refresher. Let’s start with something simple and take a look at four different methods that you can use to apply your foundation.
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Fingers
This is one of the most popular methods of applying foundation and is especially popular with makeup novices. If you have limited experience with foundation, applying the product with your fingers can feel like a good way to ensure that you are distributing the product evenly along your skin. It is also good for people with limited time who are looking to achieve a quick and basic look. Additionally, if you have a thicker cream foundation, the warmth from your hands can help the product blend more seamlessly.
This method, however, is not our favorite way to apply foundation. If you have sensitive skin or are breakout prone, you will want to keep your hands off your face as much as possible. This is due to the transfer of oils that occurs between your face and hands. You will also be distributing any dirt or oils on your hands back into the product as well. This is a recipe for unnecessary bacterial growth that can cause further breakouts or can shorten the lifespan of your foundation. If you are not breakout prone and prefer to use your fingers, then just make sure you are applying the product with freshly washed hands to keep things sanitary.
Makeup Sponge
The beauty blender is a favorite amongst many foundation users. It is praised for its ability to create a natural finish and its ease of use. The pointed egg shape of this particular sponge makes it perfect for getting into hard-to-reach areas like under the eyes and around the nose and hairline. The key here is to get your sponge slightly damp before use. This helps achieve the flawless look that the beauty blender is known for.
The one major con with the beauty blender is how it tends to waste product. Sponges are ultra-absorbent in general, so when used to apply makeup you can expect some of the product to be absorbed and therefore wasted. This amount of waste is not significant enough for you to be running through your foundation faster, but it is something to be aware of.
Traditional Foundation Brush
The traditional foundation brush has been around for ages. It is flat on the sides and rounded on top and is similar in appearance to a paintbrush. It functions like a paintbrush as well. Foundation is best applied using this brush in a straight downward motion. You will quite literally feel like you are painting your face. This tool is especially good for people who are looking for a fuller coverage application than that of a makeup sponge.
Due to the structure of the brush, this option is not the best at blending. You are locked in to using it in the downward painting motion, which increases the chances of your foundation appearing streaky or cakey. There are foundation brushes on the market that provide a better range of motion to help you blend out your makeup easier.
Flat-Top Foundation Brush
Our personal favorite way to apply foundation is with a flat-top brush. Similar to the traditional foundation brush, this brush will help you achieve a fuller coverage. Even with the fuller coverage, foundation applied with a flat-top brush manages to retain a natural and weightless appearance and feel. Use it by dabbing a light amount of foundation onto the skin and then blend it out by sweeping the brush in a light circular motion.
So are there any cons with our preferred method? Unfortunately, this is not going to be an ideal tool for people who experience dry skin. The design of the brush causes a degree of micro-exfoliation to the skin when you use it to blend out your foundation. This could cause further dryness in people who are already prone to having dryer skin.
Trying Something New!
Switching up your routine doesn’t have to be done in an extravagant or life altering way. You don’t need to go and throw all your makeup, tools, and brushes away in favor of newer products. Sometimes all it takes is switching up how you do things. So try out one of these different ways to apply your foundation today!