As a makeup artist, I often get asked by my clients tips on how to shop for the perfect makeup base as there is a plethora of products to choose from. I mean, with the many beauty brands out there, it’s understandable how some people are confused on what to get, so here are some things you need to know so you can choose the perfect makeup base for you.
What constitutes a makeup base?
It’s actually more than just one product. Doing your makeup base goes through a process. You start with cleansing, then toning, then moisturizing, then SPF and then priming.
Cleansing is for ensuring that the skin is clean and without any impurities before applying makeup.
Toning is for maintaining skin elasticity and sometimes, to balance the pH of the skin because this can affect foundation color.
Moisturizing is for making the face plump and moisturized enough.
SPF is so you’re protected from the harmful rays of the light.
And, finally, primer is so it’s easier to blend makeup and so it will stay longer.
What’s your skin type?
Your makeup base is what’s going to sit directly on top of your skin so it needs to match your skin type and not aggravate any skin issues you may have. For example, if you have oily skin, you want to avoid anything oil-based and will want to stick to makeup bases that are mattifying. A lot of people have oily skin. This is the reason why there are so many brands coming out with mattifying primers.
If your face is dehydrated, then you definitely need to go for a hydrating primer as something matte might accentuate any dry patches on your face.
What steps can you skip?
I know it sounds a lot to have 5 steps for your makeup base routine everyday. But don’t worry because there are some steps that you don’t need, SOMETIMES. For example, when I know I’m not going to spend a lot of time under the sun, I’m not really going to put so much SPF anymore, because SPF can cause a white cast especially on flash photography.
How are you supposed to apply your full makeup base routine?
Remember that your makeup base consists of mostly liquid or cream products that are similar in consistency. That being said, you can’t rush when applying them. You can get the most out of their active ingredients. The secret here is to layer your products. This means that before applying the next product, you need to let the product before that set first. That way, all the steps can do their job separately and effectively.
Added Tip
Shop for minis or samplers first so you can check first if a product works for you before you purchase anything in full size. Sometimes, makeup depots even give these away for free. More importantly, if you find what works for you, stick to it! There’s no need to change your makeup base routine if you have a perfect one already.