HOW TO MAKE YOUR BASE LAST
Some occasions/ Mondays call for a foundation that lasts all day. Makeup artist Fern Madden has it down
1. EXFOLIATE. “To get the best out of your foundation, you need your skin to be smooth. I like exfoliating formulas for sensitive skin, because it usually means you can use them more frequently,” says Madden. Next, massage, don’t just rub, in your moisturiser (this will kick-start your natural glow), then spritz your skin with rosewater. “It helps to seal in the moisturiser and create a smooth, hydrated base for you to begin with.”
2. PRIME. Applying primer is essential for long-term wear – it will smooth over your canvas further and ensure you get maximum mileage out of your makeup.
3. STAIN. “I add cheek stain to the apples to magnify the natural flush,” says Madden. “Once you’ve covered your skin with foundation, you can’t really see where the natural pinkness of the cheeks is. If you do it first, the placement is perfect.”
4. CHOOSE. “Oil-free foundation formulas last much longer. They also let you build up coverage really well, layer upon layer, like you do concealer.”
5. APPLY. Use a small foundation brush and minimal foundation, and apply the product first on your nose, where most of the redness usually is.
6. BUFF. If you like your coverage sheer, use a big kabuki brush to better merge your base and your skin. “It’s quick and makes you look airbrushed,” says Madden.
7. CONTOUR. “Using a darker shade in the same formula to lightly contour looks the most natural, rather than layering up. Because they’re the same, they blend together well and they last longer than a separate stick or powder contour would,” explains Madden.
8. CONCEAL. “Don’t scrimp on this step – it’s the most important. The key to concealer is using the right-sized brush for the area you’re working on, otherwise you’ll see it.”
9. POWDER. Use only where you need it (in areas particularly prone to shine). A fine mist of good-quality setting spray is also a must.
10. REFRESH. But do it the cheat’s way. “A spray of rosewater mist and a refresh of your under-eye concealer will take hours off your face.”