Beauty & Style
How to choose the right foundation for your age and skin
If you’re in the market for a new foundation, chances are good that you want to find one that both flatters and enhances your complexion while creating even skin tone and imbuing a touch of youthful radiance. What you don’t want is a product that emphasises fine lines and wrinkles or even worse, makes you look older that you actually are! Fortunately, foundation formulations have come a long way in the past decade with new products hitting the shelves constantly. This means that there is a huge variety to choose from with a formulation to suit almost every skin type and age.
Check out our golden rules for choosing the perfect product for a successful finish every time.
- Formulation matters – As we get older there are a number of make-up trends and products best avoided and heavy, matte foundation is one of them. While you may have always chosen a stick or powder based formula due to your oiler skin type, now is the time to use skincare to manage and minimise oil and switch to a sheer liquid, cream or mineral formulation. Our pores are larger when our skin matures and the heavier, matte foundation types highlight this while settling into and highlighting fine lines and wrinkles. Avoid at all cost!
- Try before you buy – Whether you’re switching formulations or trying out a completely new product, trying before you buy is key. This is the only true way of working out whether the product will suit your skin type and tone. Apply a generous swipe to your jawline and blend in well. The best way to tell if the product is working is by assessing it in natural light (or having a friend check it out for you). If it’s disappeared seamlessly into your skin, you’re onto a winner, shade wise. Next question to ask yourself is how it feels on your skin. Are you happy with the texture? Was it easy and enjoyable to apply? What about the scent (if it has one)? If you wear foundation daily or even just for special occasions, you want to feel comfortable applying and wearing it for an extended period.
- Be aware of special skin concerns – If your skin tends to be on the temperamental side (think overly oily or extremely sensitive), finding the right foundation can pose as more of a challenge. Don’t fret however as there’s most likely a product out there for you. Skincare for problem skin types is a whole other ballgame with many specialty product ranges. Using the correct products before you apply your make-up can make all the difference. Oily types should ensure they are cleansing properly and applying a pore minimizing and mattifying product while sensitive sorts should opt for a soothing, redness reducing moisturiser and primer. When it comes to choosing the actual foundation, look for products specifically designed for oiler or sensitive skin types that are free from ingredients that clog pores and/or fragrance.
- Ask for recommendations – Sometimes, the best reviews come from those who are actually using the product. If a friend has sensational skin, ask them what they use. Likewise, don’t be afraid to speak to the staff at your local department beauty counter or large chemist – the majority will be trained in cosmetics and can advise exactly which of their products might be best.
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