Wow great thanks a lot! I've heard that Mac's studio fix is the most incredible thing ever! How would you guys review it? I have oily skin so I wonder if this is the thing for me. Thanks!
Originally Posted by
laura127 Hi girls,
Found this article on an irish site and thought some of ye
MAKE-UP LOVERS might like to read it!
The job of any foundation is to give an appearance of flawless skin - not to dramatically alter its colour in order to give a tanned appearance, guaranteed only to make you look like you've been tangoed. However with a multitude of products on the market promoted by airbrushed ex-soap stars and scientific make-up mumbo jumbo, it's hard to know where to start.
From the high priced to the high street,
make-up artist Paula Fay has trawled through the cream of the cream foundations and got stuck into the sticks on a mission to rid the country of the orange lined jaw syndrome.
It goes without saying – always test a foundation before buying it. This doesn't mean you just rub some into you hand, hold it up to the glaring store lights and think it'll be ok. A little more time spent on the selection process will save you money in the long run.
Firstly, take into account your skin type. This will affect what type of foundation you should use. If you have
oily skin look for an oil free foundation such as
Bobbi Brown Essentials Oil Free foundation or Estée Lauder's Double Wear foundation.
Combination skins should go for products, such as
Adaptive by Lancome, which help to balance out oily and dry patches. Creamy liquid foundations or stick foundations tend to suit normal to
dry skins.
Giorgio Armani's Ultra Light Weight liquid foundation provides a subtle finish whilst covering imperfections. A liquid foundation will create a sheer to medium coverage whereas a stick foundation will offer more coverage to create a polished look.
Mac's popular Studio Tech will conceal most glaring flaws.
To find a right colour, be brave and go shopping without makeup (actually surprisingly refreshing) so there is a clear base on which to try the foundations – make up artist Paula Fay recommends blending a small amount onto your cheek and jaw. It is always a good idea to get a professional guidance choosing a formula and shade. However, the cosmetics stands in department stores can be extremely intimidating, even the most seasoned shoppers can find themselves talked into a later regretted sale. A handy line to remember that I myself use – just tell them that you are going to see how it wears on your skin before buying (this line can also be used for perfumes and creams). It also makes you sound as though you know what you're talking about! When in the daylight, if it's the right colour, you'll barely be able to see it as it should blend right into your skin colour.
Now, although you have your perfect type and shade, the foundation will be worthless unless it is
applied correctly. Here are a few quick steps from Paula Fay for instant success:
1. If using liquid foundations, shake the bottle vigorously before applying
2. Either use a disposable white triangular synthetic sponge or your fingertips
3. Start with less foundation then you need as it is easier to add more than remove it
4. First apply foundation to the centre of the face and blend towards the edges, assuring even coverage
5. Blend gently and carefully especially around the nose, mouth and jaw.
6. Do not apply foundation on eyelids or under your eyes – you should apply concealer instead to these sensitive areas
Some of the latest foundations to come out on the market, for example
Maybelline's Wonder Finish and Cashmere Perfect by L'Oreal, set to a powder finish, eliminating the need for added powder.
Benefit's Play Sticks are a handy 3-in-1 concealer, foundation and powder – an essential hand bag space saver.
If not using these, set foundation with a powder puff and translucent powder, pressing firmly yet gently onto your foundation. Brush off any excess with a powder brush. Paula Fay recommends a sheer loose powder, check out the excellent
Bobbi Brown range. Generally avoid white coloured powders, as these will drain the colour from your face. Instead, use a yellow toned powder that will help to warm the complexion.
Advertising campaigns tend to convince us, the consumer, that there is one ultimate product that once discovered, will transform our lives. The one true life time foundation is an enigma. Make-up has developed into a multi-million Dollar/Euro research business industry with new technologies emerging constantly. This time last year
Maybelline's Wonder Finish wasn't on the shelves, yet it's a great product. If you've found a foundation that suits you still try new ones out. Your skin will change with age and also foundation finishes, from matte to dewy, vary with fashion.
By: Jessica Majekodunmi and Paula Fay,
www.fashion.ie
