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• To step
• Method 1 of 4: Choosing a foundation for your skin type
• Method 2 of 4: Replenish your complexion and color
• Method 3 of 4: Test different types of foundation
• Method 4 of 4: Get the look you want

There are thousands of foundation types available for every style imaginable. While this means you have many options, it can also be just too much choice if you are just starting out with makeup or want to try a new product. Think about the type of skin you have and what effect the foundation should have - this can help you find the perfect foundation. Foundation can take care of your skin and help keep it looking its best.

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Method 1 of 4: Choosing a foundation for your skin type

1. Use an oil-free foundation for skin prone to breakouts. A foundation that is thick or has a lot of moisturizing cream can make your oily skin more oily. Don't apply thick layers of foundation as they can clog pores. Instead, choose a light foundation that won't cause breakouts. Look for a salicylic acid foundation like Clinique's for acne-prone skin - these formulas can actually reduce or even prevent breakouts.
2. Avoid foundations that can irritate sensitive skin. If your skin reacts to certain cleansers or moisturizers, you may experience the same problem with certain foundations. Many cosmetics, such as those from Cover Girl and Lancome, have hypoallergenic or non-comedogenic and fragrance-free foundation for sensitive skin.
3. Prevent and reduce signs of aging with mature skin. It is best not to use a powder foundation and heavy matte foundation. These can settle into the lines on your face and make you look older. Try lightweight liquid foundations with moderate coverage. Also look for a foundation that can protect your skin from further aging and improve its appearance.
4. Choose a foundation with an SPF. Although foundations with an SPF are becoming more common, many foundations have no sun protection at all, so check to be sure. Makeup for sensitive skin often offers good sun protection, so you may be able to find the foundation you need. Look for a foundation with an SPF of at least 15. Also, use a good sunscreen to get the full protection your skin needs.
5. Use a moisturizing foundation for dry skin. Liquid foundations are probably the best choice. Some mineral powder foundations can also nourish your skin, but usually powder as a foundation is not the best choice for dry skin. Make-up found in department stores like Dior and drugstore cosmetics like L’Oreal offer heavier, creamy foundations that work well for dry skin.
6. Keep normal skin healthy with a lightweight foundation. If you don't have an issue with overly oily or dry skin, a sheer liquid foundation or tinted moisturizer will even out your skin tone and hide minor skin flaws.

Method 2 of 4: Replenish your complexion and color

1. Determine the undertone of your skin tone. The undertone is not the same as the skin tone or skin tone - your complexion can change, but your undertone cannot. Undertones can be cool, warm or neutral. In addition to pigment or color, foundation also has a cool, warm or neutral tone. In order for your makeup to blend seamlessly into your skin tone, it must match your specific undertone.
   • If you have a rosy complexion, or a yellow or gold tone, your undertone is warm.
   • Blue or purple hues, as well as olive or greenish hues, mean you have a cool undertone.
   • If you don't see a distinct hue in one direction or the other, then you probably have a neutral undertone.
   • Check the veins in your wrist or ankle for clues about your undertone. Veins that appear purplish-bluish indicate a cool undertone. Veins with a faint green color suggest a warm undertone.
2. View your wardrobe and accessories. You are probably already making choices in clothing or jewelry that match your undertone, so think about the colors that suit you best to find out if you have a warm, cool, or neutral undertone.
   • If you usually prefer silver-colored jewelry, your undertone is probably warm.
   • Gold-colored jewelry works best with cool undertones, so if you're leaning towards gold, you probably have cool undertones.
   • If you can wear gold and silver toned jewelry, then you have a neutral undertone.
   • Do you look your best in warm colors, such as red, yellow or orange? Then your undertone is probably cool.
   • Warm undertones look best with cool colors such as blues, greens and purples.
3. Match the shade of the foundation with your undertone. Foundation mainly comes in three color gamuts: light, medium and dark. For each shade range there is also a range of undertones: cool, warm and neutral. Combine the right shade with the right undertone. For example, very light blondes with pale skin that burns easily often look best with a light foundation with a yellow or golden undertone.
4. Consider your hair color. Your foundation should look natural and complement your overall look. If you've recently changed your hair color, or if your hair has turned significantly gray, you will need to recalibrate your foundation to match your new look.
   • For a lighter hair color, a foundation with a little heat can keep you from looking too pale or limp.
   • A lighter, cooler foundation often contrasts well with darker hair.
   • If you have red hair, don't choose a foundation with too much pink or red hues.

Method 3 of 4: Test different types of foundation

1. Try out different shades of foundation before purchasing. Foundation can look very different in the bottle than it does on your skin. You can try different foundations at most department stores, so a visit to a cosmetics department is worthwhile if you want to avoid making a mistake about the best color for your skin.
   • A department store will have multiple brands of cosmetics, making it easier to choose the right foundation for your skin type and makeup needs.
   • The cosmetics department staff are generally very knowledgeable about the various brands and can help select the best options.
   • If you find the prices in the department store too high, you can find a good match for your skin there and then look for a cheaper brand that is almost or completely identical to the one that works best for your skin.
   EXPERT TIP

   Make an appointment with a make-up artist. Some foundation types require special application tools or techniques for optimal coverage and application, or may require more time and maintenance than you would like. A makeup artist can give you advice and tips on the best foundation for what you need.

   • Tell the makeup artist about any skin allergies or sensitivities.
   • Bring a few magazine ads or photos with you to show what kind of style you want to achieve.
   • Ask the makeup artist about any special brushes or applicators you need to use with a foundation.
   • Ask for any tips or tricks on how to apply the foundation.
   • Discuss your morning and evening routine and how much time you normally spend applying and removing makeup.
   • Determine which makeup remover or cleansing products work best for specific foundation types.
2. Try out different shades yourself. If you only have time to make a quick purchase, you can try foundation from different cosmetic brands for yourself. There are different options and different opinions on where to try out the foundation shades. While the most obvious choice is your cheek or jawline, you may already be wearing makeup, so you may need to test the foundation elsewhere on your body.
   • If you have avoided overexposure to the sun, your chest is a great option for choosing the best shade of foundation.
   • The jawline is probably one of the most common areas for foundation color testing. This is a great way to make sure your foundation matches the skin on your neck.
   • The skin on your arm or hands is not a good place to test foundation colors. The skin on your face is very different in texture from that on your arm or hand, and probably very different in color.
3. Try a few colors at a time. Apply a few colors to the left jawline and a few to the right. If you look at different shades at the same time, you can compare the effect and style of different products.
4. See how you look in natural light. The fluorescent lighting in most department stores can change the color of foundation on your skin. Once you find a color that seems to match your skin, apply a larger amount to your face. Go outside with a mirror and check your reflection in natural light to make sure it still looks good. EXPERT TIP

   Ask for a second opinion. Bring a friend to help you choose which foundation is best for you. Of course, you can always ask for feedback from the makeup professionals manning the counters, but sometimes the best advice comes from someone who knows you very well.

Method 4 of 4: Get the look you want

1. Make sure you have a clear idea of ​​what look you want. Foundation can make or break a look, so you want to choose one that works for your style and what you want. You can get foundation for any effect - from an almost skin tone to a flawlessly smooth matte finish.
   • For a luminous glow, choose a light, water-based foundation. Apply this sparingly to the skin. Finish the look with a pressed powder that shimmers a bit. You can also skip the powder and sprinkle your made-up face with mineral water instead for extra shine.
   • A dewy face looks healthy and fresh. Make sure to choose a foundation with an oil-based moisturizer rather than a water-based moisturizer.
   • You can get a matte finish with different forms of foundation: a matte liquid, a mousse or a matte powder. You want to make sure your skin is oil-free before and during foundation application, so start with a very clean face and use a primer as a base. Use a brush or sponge to apply the makeup so that oil from your fingers doesn't get onto your face.
2. Consider your environment and your plans. For example, if you are going to move a lot or get wet, then a foundation that is water resistant or sweat resistant, but still breathable, would be suitable. If you're attending a formal event, a foundation that stays put but gives you lots of control over shine will help you look your best in photos.
   • If you're going to the gym or tennis court, a sweat-resistant foundation that's not too heavy and won't clog pores (and with an SPF of at least 20) is a good choice.
   • If you choose a foundation for work or school, don't choose an overly cool tone. The fluorescent lighting in most buildings can make you look pale, so adding a little heat can compensate.
   • For prom, formal events, or weddings, choose a foundation that won't fade and makes your skin look flawless. A semi-matte to matte foundation is a good option, as these foundations usually last a long time and have less shine.
   • If you're usually indoors and out all day, or in natural light, look for a sheer foundation that won't make you look too "fake". Liquid, water-based foundation or a tinted moisturizer are good choices.
3. Don't wear the same foundation color all year round. You need to change your foundation several times a year to match your foundation to your color scheme and to match your style to the season. For example, if you get a tan in the summer, you should adjust your foundation to your new skin tone.
4. Mix colors to match them perfectly. Your skin is unique and you may not find any shade that fits well. Try mixing colors or shades to create the perfect shade for you.
5. Dilute a heavy foundation with a moisturizer. If you find a good match but it doesn't feel nice on your skin, you can probably make it feel lighter by adding a few drops of moisturizer. Experiment with the ratio of moisturizer to foundation until you have a good balance of texture and coverage.
6. Choose a foundation for your age. Your skin's texture and complexion changes as you age, along with any skin concerns you may want to address. Different formulations and types of foundation can keep you looking your best and taking care of your skin as it ages.
   • For teens and early twenties, oily skin and blemishes can be a problem. Choose a water-based foundation or a light mineral powder foundation. Use clean brushes or makeup sponges and wash your hands before applying foundation.
   • Your skin can start to show signs of aging from your 30s, so choose a foundation that nourishes your skin while also keeping it looking and feeling young. A cream foundation with an oil-based moisturizer is a good choice, such as those from L'Oreal or Maybelline.
   • As your skin ages, you can start using a foundation that not only hides the signs of aging, but can also help repair and revitalize your skin. L'Oreal makes foundations with silicone to soften fine lines, while Estee Lauder foundations have anti-aging properties that can help slow or prevent the formation of new lines.
   • Foundation for older skin should be lightweight and moisturizing. Stay away from powders that plug skin folds and make you look older.