CHOOSING THE FOUNDATION FORMULA

In today’s times, there are so many different types of foundations formulas, choosing the right one for your face is very challenging for some. I thought I would break down how to determine your skin type as well as break down the different formulations of foundation and what skin type they suit.

Determining your skin type and condition

Your skins condition and type change every day and you need to determine the type each morning. How do you do that? A simple test is used to check your skin type. After washing your face with your regular facial wash, don’t apply any moisturiser to the face. How does your face feel and look? Is the overall condition shiny, flaky or smooth? Does the skin feel tight after washing? All these give you an indication of your skin type. Below I will break down each skin type.

Normal

Analysis:

Smooth and even texture

Water and oil content is balanced

Skin feels comfortable

Dry and Extra Dry

Analysis:

Skin feels tight after washing

Looks flaky

Because dehydrated, skin will feel rough and uneven

Shows fine lines faster

Oily skin

Analysis:

Skin is oily and shiny especially through the forehead, nose and chin

Large visible pores

Many breakouts

Lesser signs of aging

Sensitive skin

Analysis:

Can be a combination of dry and oily skin

Itchy and blotchy

Prone to redness

Breaks out and is easily irritated by cosmetics and skincare

Combo skin

Analysis:

Spot dehydration

Shiny through the forehead, nose and chin with enlarged pores

Breakdown of different foundation formulations and skin type’s best suited too

Liquid Foundation

Is brilliant for dry and extra dry skin. Because of the high liquid quantity, it gives extra moisture to dry skin. Also look for liquid foundations with added oils and serums to help nourish dry skin.

My favourite liquid foundations are the LOV EVENelixir Serum foundation and the Rimmel Match Perfection foundation.

Stick and cream foundations

Is great for all skin types except oily skin, as it can create a caked on look. Stick and cream foundations are great for bridal makeup and photography. They usually don’t contain any skincare thus won’t create a white flashback in photography.

My favourite stick and cream foundations are the Kryolan Ultra Foundation,  the Revlon PhotoReady Insta-Fix foundation and the Smashbox Studio skin Shaping Foundation stick.

Oil-free Liquid Foundations and Mineral Foundations

If you have combination skin and are looking for a foundation that will stay on all day long, your answer is a mineral powder foundations and oil-free liquid foundations. They will help absorb the oil in your skin and provide medium coverage. Be careful when choosing a mineral powder foundation, as the powder will change colour when it comes into contact with the skin. Definitely try the foundation out before purchasing.

My ultimate favourite for oil-free liquid foundation is the Smashbox Studio Skin 15hr Foundation. 

Tinted Moisturizer

If you are blessed with normal skin that does not require a full coverage foundation, I recommend using a tinted moisturizer. It will give you a light coverage and a natural look.

I hope this helps with choosing a foundation formulation that will suit your skin type. I would love to hear your thoughts on our different skin types and the different foundation formulations. Leave me a comment below or use #CWMFoundationFormulation on twitter.