Most women turn to foundation to achieve a smoother, younger and flawless complexion, as well as to hide unsightly blemishes, discoloration and the occasional pimple or two. However, what you may not expect is that applying foundation improperly can lead to actually making your wrinkles and signs of aging look more pronounced.

Even the most skilled makeup diva can fall prey to foundation issues when it comes to the signs of aging, namely wrinkles. Because foundation is meant to blend naturally into the complexion, they contain ingredients that allow for movement. Without these ingredients, your foundation would just sit where you’ve applied it. Not much use in that, is there? The downside to the foundation’s ability to move is that it tends to gather in areas such as the pores, which can enlarge their appearance. However, when it comes to foundation and wrinkles, the appearance can be anything but fabulous.

Common areas where foundation and wrinkles collide include the chin, bottom of the nose, the upper lip, and around the eye area. So what is the solution? If you’re able to get a foundation shade that matches your natural skin tone exactly, it would be in your best interest to avoid putting foundation on these problem areas altogether and instead blend your foundation thoroughly into your complexion so that you aren’t left with telltale spots. It may sound strange but if done correctly, you should be able to achieve even coverage without exaggerating your wrinkles.

If you just have to have even coverage with your foundation, make sure that your face - especially the areas where you have wrinkles and fine lines - is properly moisturized. Foundation sits best on a complexion that is smooth and hydrated so if you’re having issues with your wrinkles and foundation it may be due to the fact that you aren’t allowing your moisturizer to sit long enough on the skin before applying your foundation. You can also opt for foundations that are actually loose powder. This type of foundation formula sits lightly on the face and tends to work better with the presence of wrinkles than other foundation types. Cream and liquid foundations are common culprits in exaggerating wrinkles so depending on your skin type, you may want to seek the guidance of a makeup consultant to help you find a loose powder foundation that will work with your skin as well as help conceal your wrinkles and fine lines.

Another alternative to foundation is tinted moisturizer. You’ll be able to get even coverage for your complexion without your wrinkles taking center stage. Because it is a moisturizer, your skin will be properly hydrated, giving you the perfectly sun-kissed look, while concealing your wrinkles and not enhancing them.

Of course another way to make your foundation and your wrinkles work in harmony is to maintain a diligent and effective anti-aging regimen. When you neglect your complexion, your wrinkles will become worse and no matter what type of foundation you use, they will be much more apparent. Target the early signs of aging right away with eye creams and other top-notch anti-wrinkle products. The earlier you treat your wrinkles and fine lines, the less you’ll have to worry about when you apply your makeup.

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