5 Foundation Mistakes We All Make — And Shouldn’t

Foundation is the canvas on which we build a gorgeous makeup look. So no matter how pretty a lipstick or smoky eye, no one will notice it if your cover up is streaky or caked on. Avoid these common foundation mistakes to enhance your complexion and create a natural-looking finish.

Although it seems easiest to apply foundation with your fingers, it oftentimes leaves harsh lines on the skin. For a more accurate blend, use a brush or sponge, like the Beauty Blender ($19.95, sephora.com). With a brush, blend the foundation in circular motions to create an airbrushed finish with little product. With a sponge, dab to avoid lines.

When you color test at a Sephora or department store, don’t dab the formulas on the back of your hand. Instead, test the color on your jaw line, underneath the eyes and around the nose to find a match. Another option: Sephora’s Pantone Color IQ service. An employee holds a gadget to your cheek and forehead. Within minutes, your skin tone is matched to foundations throughout the store. Then you have the option to choose which formulas you want to test without the hassle of testing multiple colors in the line.

Ever find your foundation to change color throughout the day, turning a light shade of orange? This happens when too much of the pH in the oil of the skin mixes with the pigment in the foundation. To avoid this oxidation, a primer should be applied to act as a barrier.

Concealer’s purpose is to add additional coverage when foundation doesn’t completely cover a trouble area. If you apply foundation over concealer, you’re thinning out the concealer you just strategically placed over trouble spots. What’s the point of that?

Use foundation where needed, not all over the face. The less you use, the more natural it appears. Spots to pay attention to: redness around the nose, dark under eye circles and any blemishes. Blending with a brush will make it look like all-over color.