Foundation and Powder

Foundation and powder equipment Kit

If you're applying a full base, foundation and powders are the products to choose. Here's what's out there, and what they do.

Liquid foundation

Creates sheer to medium coverage. It can be applied with a sponge, but many make-up artists prefer to use their fingers as they claim the warmth helps it blend better. Use it sparingly- too much will look like a mask.

Stick foundation

Offers more coverage and is faster to blend than liquid. It should only ever be blended with the fingers or it can go streaky. It's good if you have small blemishes or eye circles and don't want to use concealer.

Cream-to-powder foundation

If you like the look of a matt face, choose these. Applied with a damp sponge they create a dewy, matt finish that gives full coverage.

Tinted moisturizer

The lightest coverage, this is the product for you if you don't like foundation. Many women think it makes you look tanned. It shouldn't - like foundation, it should match your skin.

Bronzing gels/sticks

If you want a more sun-kissed look, bronzing gel is the product for you - but choose sheer brands and apply sparingly. You're trying to enhance your natural color, not create a fake tan.

Loose powder

Used to set foundation, it should be brushed lightly over the face with a big fluffy brush. Translucent is the best shade to choose, but if you have warm skin choose one that's yellow-based rather than pink.

Pressed powder

To create total coverage, apply over foundation. However, don't smooth it on

the skin; apply it with a powder sponge in a rolling motion.

Bronzing powder or spheres

Brushed lightly across the skin, this creates a golden glow. However, don't use it allover the face, as this will make the skin look dirty rather than tanned. Instead, only apply it where the sun naturally hits your skin- the cheekbones, chin and tip of your nose.

Foundation sponge

It's not essential but many women prefer it to fingers. Wash the sponge after every use in a little baby shampoo.

Powder brush

Essential for applying loose powder, the perfect brush is roughly three centimeters across and fluffy. Again, wash it regularly with baby shampoo.