ALL ABOUT THAT BASE
KATIE WRIGHT finds out why you should swap liquid formulas for a foundation stick
IF A quick-fix make-up solution is what you’re looking for, there’s one swap you can make to save valuable minutes every morning.
By using a foundation stick instead of a liquid formula, you can cut down time spent on blending without sacrificing on coverage, plus, you won’t need to add concealer afterwards.
“Foundation sticks are the perfect product for those who want to create a flawless base in minutes,” says Bobbi Brown pro artist Aimee Morrison.
“Ideal for new mums, those who are always on-the-go and in general anyone who loves a quick make-up application.”
Bobbi Brown Stick Foundation has been a fan-favourite for years, while more recently Hourglass Vanish Seamless Finish Foundation Stick has been a huge hit with beauty bloggers and shoppers alike.
Last year, MAC launched its Studio Fix Soft Matte Foundation Stick in response to the ‘real skin’ trend, a preference for concealing imperfections without masking one’s complexion.
So what if you want to make the switch but you’ve always been a liquid base devotee?
Here, Aimee breaks down everything you need to know about stick foundation, from formula to application...
What’s the difference between liquid and stick foundations?
STICK foundation is in a thicker format for medium to full coverage, and works well to cover imperfections, similar to a concealer.
The creamy, flexible formula of a stick foundation seamlessly blends into the skin with little effort and the easy to use, long-lasting nature of foundation sticks make them the perfect base all year round.
Are foundation sticks better for certain skin types?
NORMAL to oily skin works very well with a stick foundation, or if using a liquid foundation with oily skin, it’s best to find one with a matte-type finish.
In general, a dry-type skin does best with liquid make-up, but can also look great with a stick foundation if properly moisturised first.
But why choose one formula when you can wear them both together?
I PERSONALLY love to even out skin with a liquid foundation and build coverage around the centre of the face with a stick foundation.
Layering different formulas is the secret to a flawless and long-lasting base.
What’s the best way to apply stick foundation?
FOUNDATION sticks provide an easy swipe-on application and the coverage can be layered with a foundation brush or smoothed out with fingertips for a natural finish.
To get the most out of a foundation stick, prep your skin well by ensuring it looks and feels hydrated, with a cushion-like feel for the stick to glide on effortlessly.
Set in place with an oil-free powder if your skin is oily and, if you have a drier skin type, keep a dewy finish by setting a foundation stick with an illuminating powder to achieve that healthy glow.