Foundation: The BASE-ICS

Finding the perfect foundation can be incredibly difficult. If the foundation you choose doesn't properly match your skin type or tone, you could easily end up looking orange, fake, or cake-y.

Foundation has been perfectly named; it constitutes the very base layer of your makeup and has the largest amount of coverage across your face. Do you find yourself struggling to decide between different foundations at the store? I have a few tips to make the intimidating process of choosing your foundation easy and seamless.

The first step to finding your perfect foundation is to figure out your skin type. If you don’t know what your type is, Nivea has a skin test.

• If you have dry skin, you will want to pick a formula that is hydrating and moisturizing.

• If you have combination or oily skin, go for an oil-free foundation to minimize shine.

If you are at the store looking for foundation, keep these helpful tips in mind:

• Ask about the items return policy. Some makeup stores will allow refunds or exchanges if the colour doesn’t match correctly or you aren’t satisfied with the coverage. This way you can try the product out in an everyday setting to see if it is the one for you.

• Check the ingredient list. Some products may claim to be oil-free, but will contain other oily ingredients (like petrolatum) that can worsen the condition of breakout-prone skin.

• Stay away from long-lasting formulas. Foundations that claim to last a long time tend to house ingredients that dry out skin and can start to form lines and creases throughout the day. Opt for a long-lasting setting spray to finish your look instead.

Next, figure out which undertone your skin carries. This will help you pick a tone of foundation that properly combats your undertones.

An easy way to figure out your undertone is to look at the inside of your wrist. See if you notice more yellow or pink in this area.

• If you see yellow, that means you are on the warm side.

• If you see pink, you are a cool tone.

In case you are still confused, you can check out StyleCaster to gain some more clarity.