Sometimes complexion products, such as foundation and concealer can be challenging to apply.  It’s not always understood how to manipulate foundation/concealer to the desired coverage and look.  In addition, many people struggle with overall application in general, not fully understanding how to blend so that everything is seamless.  Let’s get into some tips that will help you figure it out.

Determine coverage.  Most people will buy a product because it is popular or because it is recommended as being “good.”  However, is it “good” for YOU?  Foundations/concealers should be selected based on skin type and coverage preference.  For instance, if your skin is dry and you are looking for a light coverage, you would NOT select a matte, full coverage foundation/concealer.  You would look for more hydrating, minimal coverage products instead.  So, first, know your skin type and then know the coverage you desire.

Know your product.  Are you working with a liquid, a cream, a powder?  This is important to take note of for two reasons. (1) It will help us achieve desired coverage. (2) It will help us determine which tools to use for application.  Keep in mind, typically creams will give you the most coverage without having to layer much.  With liquids and powder (unless full coverage) you may need to layer to achieve your desired look.  Knowing your product will also help you with selecting the proper tools to blend it out.

Select your tools.  Tools are probably the most important part of applying foundation/concealer.  Selecting the wrong tools can possibly result in a not-so-great application or you will not get the maximum coverage payoff.  For sheer to light coverage, using a damp sponge (or beauty blender) is the way to go.  The damp sponge will absorb excess product, leaving you with just the right amount.  If you are looking to achieve a medium to full coverage, I recommend using a densely packed brush.  Flat top kabuki brushes are a great option (larger ones for foundation and smaller ones for concealer).  For a powder, you want to use a densely packed powder brush for medium to full coverage and a less densely packed powder brush for sheer to light coverage.  The more dense the brush, the heavier the product will apply. Fingers, however, are my favorite tool.  I love using my fingers to apply complexion products.  I feel like it gives me the ultimate control in terms of coverage.  So don’t be afraid to get those fingers dirty!

Apply and Blend!  Now it’s time to get that foundation/concealer onto your face!  For sheer to light coverage, apply a minimal amount of product (preferably a liquid) to the major zones of your face (forehead, cheeks, nose, chin). I like to dab it on with my fingers.  Then use a damp sponge to spread and blend the product until you have an even, well-blended look.  Also, be sure to dab the sponge around your jawline and hairline to ensure a seamless look and avoid looking like you have on a mask!  For a medium to full coverage (liquid or cream), use a flat foundation brush to dab the product onto the major zones of your face.  Then, use a flat top kabuki brush to blend it out.  Be sure to be mindful of blending around the jawline and hairline, as it is a bit more challenging to blend fuller coverage products when trying to make them appear seamless.  Sometimes, after foundation application, we need extra special attention to certain spots on our face.  I spot conceal in a very specific way.  Using a flat, synthetic concealer brush, pack the product onto the spot that needs extra attention.  Pack the product until the spot is concealed to your liking.  Then, take the concealer brush and tap it around the area to begin to blend the product seamlessly into the surrounding skin.  Take your finger and continue tapping around the edges until you cannot see where the concealer begins and ends.
If you need to add additional layers to build coverage, just repeat the applicable steps listed above.

Set.  The last step is to set everything in place.  I personally like to use loose powders, but you can use pressed powder as well.  Use a fluffy powder brush to set larger areas.  To set smaller areas, such as under the eyes, use a smaller, tapered fluffy brush or a sponge. Press the powder into your skin lightly and avoid swiping, as you do not want to move around the foundation and concealer.

I hope that these tips helped you!  I tried to keep it general so it is simple and easy to understand.  Please leave any questions you have in the comments!

Till next time gorgeous,

Sarah Robyn