If there is anything that should appear flawless, it should be your foundation. Unfortunately, not all of us have the skills of a makeup artist so getting the right application and coverage can be a challenge. Sure, practice makes perfect but it never hurts to learn more tips and tricks that can allow you to play around with different types of application so that you can find which method will work best for you.

Before worrying about how to put on your makeup, you should make sure that you’re using the right kind. The type of foundation you choose will be determined by your skin type. When it comes to your complexion, you should note whether it gets excessively oily over time, if you suffer from dry and flaky patches or if you’ve got minor blemishes and dark circles. The three types of foundation you have to choose from are powder, liquid and cream. For oily skin types, using a foundation that is labeled oil-free or is water-based are ideal. Dry skin types can benefit from liquid foundation, which can provide the ideal coverage while hydrating the skin. Normal to combination skin with slight blemishes can also try liquid or powder foundation to conceal problem areas. Now that you’ve found your foundation type, you’ve got to figure out what shade to get. For complexions that are more on the beige side, foundations with yellow undertones are best. Foundation with peachy-orange undertones is better suited for those with brown skin.

So you’ve got your foundation that is the right type and shade. The next and final step is to apply it! You can apply foundation one of three ways: sponge, fingertips or using a foundation brush. While some believe that you shouldn’t apply foundation using your fingertips, as long as they are clean beforehand, you should have no problems. Liquid, cream and gel foundations are ideal for this method of application. Dip your fingertip into the foundation and dot your forehead, nose, chin and each cheek. Start wherever you like and start gently smoothing the foundation onto your skin and work your way outwards. Make sure you’ve got good lighting so you can see any spots you’ve missed. Take a step back every so often to check your work.

To get more accurate coverage in areas like your chin and the sides of your nose, you can follow up with a foundation brush. This type of brush literally allows you to “paint” on your foundation and ensures smooth, even coverage. While applying the foundation using a foundation brush, always stroke to the side and upwards on the cheeks, in a downwards motion for your nose and chin, and horizontal movements across your forehead. Foundation brushes work best with liquid, cream and gel foundations.

For those who use powder foundation or a cream to powder formula, sponges are the best tools to use for application. You can choose either a dry or moist sponge. Be sure to work with one area at a time when applying the foundation. Using your sponge, start at the center of your face and blend outwards towards your cheeks, chin and forehead. The color of the foundation should “disappear” into your skin and not look like it is sitting right on top of it.

No matter what method you choose, make sure to blend well around the hairline, jaw line, the under eye area, behind your ears (if you are wearing an up-do), and over your eyelids, which acts as a great base for eye makeup.

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