Hannah Morrill, Allure magazine
This is the thing about foundations: It's kind of like shapewear. At its worst, it's uncomfortable, it makes you sweat, and people can tell you're wearing it. But at its best, you look flawless, all the right places are expertly concealed-and nobody knows exactly why.
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And just like Spanx, the kind of coverage you need depends on the look you're going for. Just keep in mind that the goal is to use as little foundation as possible. Determine the best texture and shade for your skin tone, follow a few key application tricks, and everything you wear on top will glide on perfectly.
1. Start with clean, well-moisturized skin. Massage your moisturizer on your face and neck and allow it to absorb fully-about ten minutes. "Moisturizer works a little like primer and helps makeup last longer," says Chanel makeup artist Rachel Goodwin.
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2. If you have large pores or fine lines, apply a thin layer of primer-but only where you need it. "Using primer everywhere can make the skin look lifeless, especially if it's oily," says makeup artist Pati Dubroff.
3. If your foundation is a liquid or a cream, place a pea-size amount in your palm and heat it up by swirling it around with two fingers. This keeps the makeup from going on too densely. If you're using a powder foundation, sweep it on starting at the bridge of the nose. Avoid areas with fine lines (under eyes, around the mouth).
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4. Always blend your foundation down or sideways-never up-from the center of your face working outward to prevent it from catching in peach fuzz. Coverage should get more sheer as you move toward your hairline. Don't forget to blend thoroughly around your jawline.
5. Press a lightly dampened sponge around the nose, hairline, and jaw to blend makeup. If your skin gets oily during the day, use blotting papers. If it still looks oily, dust translucent loose powder on the T-zone only.
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