Breaking Down Beauty: Applying Foundation

By Sheila

Heather, one of our readers, had a question about applying MAC’s Face and Body Foundation, which is a very lightweight, watery foundation.

I took this as an opportunity to do another “Breaking Down Beauty” and share my technique for applying foundations, in general.

Typically, I use my fingers, which are the best tools you have, because it’s easier than taking out a foundation brush and then having to clean it afterwards. However, I do use and like the look that a brush gives the finished look. Sponges, I find, tend to pick up too much of the foundation, especially for something as watery as Face and Body, so I don’t use those.

Here’s the brush method on video and then with a descriptive step-by-step afterward:

Step 1: I spritz my “skunk” brush with MAC’s Fix +, which is fantastic because it contains glycerin, which provides a nice slip and helps the foundation smooth over your skin. I use the MAC #187 brush, but there are plenty of other cheaper skunk brushes out there, which is an idea for a future blog post.

Step 2: I put the foundation, in this case Stila’s SPF 30 Tinted Moisturizer, on the back of my hand and move the brush around and in the TM.

Step 3: Use circular motions, a light hand, and apply to the face. Sometimes I’ll go back and pick up more foundation, but this is usually enough for the whole face.

One thing I have to emphasize is the need to use a light hand when you’re applying makeup, in general. You can *always* go back and add more, and it’s so much easier to add to your base rather than take off or try to blend excess product.

Hope that helps you, Heather!

Let us know if you’d like us to break down anything else for you!!!