Makeup artists are often asked about their secrets for creating the perfect base, which is the foundation of any makeup look. The base includes everything from general skincare to foundation, concealer, powder, and setting spray. The key to a flawless base is to have a smooth, even canvas to work with.
In this article, we’ll cover everything there is to know about how to get your face makeup absolutely perfect, following the same tips that professionals do.
Our top makeup base tips
Here are some tips and tricks from professional makeup artists to achieve the perfect base.
Skincare is key
Before applying makeup, it’s important to have a good skincare routine. Cleanse, tone, and moisturize your skin to create a smooth, hydrated base. Use an exfoliating scrub once a week to remove any dead skin cells and help your foundation sit smoothly. Applying a hydrating face mask before makeup can also help create a smoother canvas.
Primer is essential
A primer acts as a base for your foundation, creating a smooth, even surface for your makeup to adhere to. It also helps to prolong the wear of your foundation and prevent it from settling into fine lines and pores. Choose a primer that is suitable for your skin type, whether it be oily, dry, or combination.
Choose the right foundation
When it comes to choosing a foundation, it’s important to find one that matches your skin tone and skin type. Test the foundation on your jawline, not your hand, to find the closest match. If you have oily skin, go for a matte foundation, and if you have dry skin, choose a hydrating foundation. Apply foundation with a brush, sponge, or your fingers, depending on your preference.
Conceal like a pro
Use a concealer to cover up any blemishes, dark circles, or discolouration. Choose a shade that matches your foundation and apply it with a small brush or your fingers. Pat the concealer gently, rather than rubbing it, to avoid disturbing the foundation underneath. Use a color corrector under your concealer to neutralize any discolouration.
Set with powder
To set your foundation and concealer, use a powder that matches your skin tone. Apply the powder with a large fluffy brush, concentrating on the T-zone and areas where you tend to get oily. If you have dry skin, you should go for a hydrating powder or skip this step altogether.
Add dimension with bronzer & blush
To add dimension to your face, use bronzer and blush. Choose a bronzer that is a few shades darker than your skin tone and apply it to the hollows of your cheeks, temples, and jawline. Apply blush to the apples of your cheeks for a natural flush. Blend everything together with a large fluffy brush.
Finish with setting spray
To ensure your makeup stays put all day, use a setting spray. Mist your face with the setting spray after applying all of your makeup, holding the bottle a few inches away from your face. Let the spray dry completely before touching your face.
FAQs
As you can imagine, there’s a fair amount of confusion when it comes to getting makeup just right, especially when it comes to applying the perfect base layer. As a result, here are a few FAQs that should help you better understand what it takes to get it right.
How do I choose the right foundation shade?
Test the foundation on your jawline, not your hand, to find the closest match. The shade should blend seamlessly into your neck.
How do I prevent my foundation from settling into fine lines and pores?
Use a primer before applying the foundation to create a smooth base. Choose a foundation that is suitable for your skin type and apply it with a brush, sponge, or your fingers.
Can I skip powder if I have dry skin?
Yes, you can skip powder if you have dry skin. Alternatively, you can use a hydrating powder or apply powder only to areas where you tend to get oily.
How do I choose the right blush shade?
Choose a blush shade that complements your skin tone. If you have fair skin, opt for a pink or peach shade. If you have medium skin, go for a coral or rosy shade, and if you have dark skin, choose a deep berry or plum shade.
Should I apply bronzer before or after blush?
It’s personal preference, but most makeup artists apply bronzer first and then blush to add dimension to the face.
How do I ensure my makeup stays on all day?
Use a setting spray to lock your makeup in place. Mist your face with the setting spray after applying all of your makeup, and let it dry completely before touching your face.
How do I prevent my makeup from looking cakey?
Use a light hand when applying your makeup, and blend everything together well. Use a damp sponge or brush to blend out any harsh lines and set your makeup with a light layer of powder.
Conclusion
In conclusion, creating the perfect base is all about having a smooth, even canvas to work with. Take care of your skin with a good skincare routine, use a primer to create a smooth base, choose the right foundation and concealer shades, set everything with powder, add dimension with bronzer and blush, and lock your makeup in place with a setting spray.