Content

• To step
• Part 1 of 3: Apply foundation with a brush
• Part 2 of 3: Using a sponge
• Part 3 of 3: Avoiding mistakes
• Tips

Powder foundation is lighter on the skin, absorbs quickly and can cause less mess. If you are in a hurry in the morning, powder foundation can be a good choice for you. Make sure you apply the foundation correctly. You can use a brush or a sponge. By using a good primer and correct application you can prevent your make-up from fading during the day.

To step

Part 1 of 3: Apply foundation with a brush

1. Wash your face. Make sure your face is free of dirt before using foundation. Clean your face with a mild facial cleanser. Rinse with cool water, then pat your face dry with a clean, dry towel.
2. Apply moisturizer. Choose a lightweight formula made for your skin type, such as dry, oily, or blended. You can also look for a formula that contains SPF to give you added sun protection.
3. Prep your skin with primer. While primer is optional, it will smooth out your skin tone and make your makeup last longer. Start by applying the primer to your nose, working outward until your entire face is covered. Let the primer dry before applying your makeup.
4. Choose the right brush. Make sure you choose the right brush to apply powder foundation. The type of brush you choose depends on how you want to apply your makeup.
   • Most people use a round kabuki brush to apply powder foundation, which you can buy at most department stores. However, if you are using a powder foundation on top of a liquid or cream foundation, you may want to use a round foundation brush. You usually get a more transparent coverage with these types of brushes.
   • You should also keep in mind how dense you want your brush bristles to be, regardless of whether you are using a foundation or kabuki brush. If you want more coverage, use a thicker brush. Use a larger, less dense brush for lighter coverage and side effects.
5. Apply your powder foundation to your brush. Use a swirling motion to lightly coat your brush with your powder foundation. Hold the brush horizontally as you work so that you work the foundation into the bristles of the brush.
6. Apply the foundation with circular movements. Use circular motions to apply foundation to your cheeks, forehead, under your eyes, and other areas where you see discoloration on your face. If you have blemishes or acne, cover these areas with a light coverage powder foundation.
   • Go slow when applying foundation. Your foundation may smudge if you apply it in a hurry.
   • Place your loose powder in a handkerchief, then shake the powder out on a flat surface before applying to your brush to help prevent lumps. This way, the foundation won't look cakey on your skin.
7. Remove excess powder with a finishing brush. This can also be used to smooth and blend foundation so that it looks natural. Foundation should not change the color of your face because you should choose a color that matches your skin tone. It's just supposed to make your skin look smoother.
   • If your makeup looks heavy or cakey, try blending it into your skin a little more. Use a clean brush and light circular strokes to soften and blend makeup.
   • If you can still see the powder after mixing it well, you may need to choose a different shade that is closer to your skin tone.

Part 2 of 3: Using a sponge

1. Use a sponge for heavier application. If you need a heavier foundation, it is a good idea to use a sponge instead of a brush. Sponges generally make foundation look more opaque and can cover more blemishes and discoloration. You can buy makeup sponges at most department stores. Some powder foundations come with a make-up sponge.
2. Dab the powder onto your face with light, circular motions. It's a good idea to start lightly with powder foundation. Take the sponge and dab it into your powder foundation to apply a generous amount. Gently pat the sponge on your face to apply a thin layer of foundation for full coverage.
   • If you are applying powder foundation on top of another layer of foundation, such as liquid foundation, then you need to be especially careful. You don't want to risk smearing your first layer of foundation.
   • Use a finishing brush to wipe off excess powder and to mix in clumps.
3. Use a wet sponge to target problem areas. Wet your sponge and apply your foundation on top. Areas where you want more coverage, such as under your eyes, can be covered with a wet sponge. Dab the sponge in a bowl of water, then squeeze out the excess. Then dab the wet sponge into your foundation. Apply the foundation to your face with circular movements and focus on your problem areas.
   • If you're tackling difficult areas, such as under your eyes or near your nose, you may want to fold your sponge in half for a more precise application.
   • When you're ready, use a finishing brush to remove excess powder and blend foundation into your face for a natural look.

Part 3 of 3: Avoiding mistakes

1. Don't skip primer. If you want your powder foundation to last all day, then primer is essential. Primer is a liquid make-up that you apply under foundation. Primer makes your foundation look more natural and prevents creasing. It can also keep your foundation on your face all day long. Make sure to apply a coat of primer first when using powder foundation.
   • Start from the inside of your face and work your way out as you apply primer. Dab a few dots of primer on your nose, under your eyes, and on your cheeks and chin. Then use your fingers to spread the primer evenly over your face.
2. Choose the right amount of coverage. Mineral or light foundation is intended for light to medium coverage. If you want more coverage, opt for pressed powder, which can generally be applied more heavily to your face. You can also choose to apply a layer of mineral foundation and then target problem areas with pressed powder.
3. Find the right color. Dab a cotton swab into foundation to see if it is the right color for your skin. Draw a line along your jawline on the side of your face. If the line is invisible, the makeup will suit your skin well. If you can see the line, you will want to try a different color.
   • You may have to experiment with multiple colors before you find one that works. Try asking someone who works in the makeup section of your local department store for help finding the right shade. This way you can try the makeup on your skin before making a purchase.
   • Avoid using a foundation that is too warm or cool for the undertone of your skin tone. Otherwise, you will be able to see a clear foundation line along your jaw.
4. Avoid applying your foundation with your fingers. It is best to always use a sponge or brush when applying powder foundation.Your makeup will often look thick and cakey when you use your fingers, and your fingers will provide much less precision than a good makeup brush or sponge.

Tips

• You can combine different methods. If you want a light bottom layer of coverage, you can use a brush. You can then use a wet sponge on problem areas.
• Make sure there is no flaky skin on your face. Powder foundation will make this look a lot worse. Rub gently with a damp washcloth, dry your face, then apply your primer and foundation.