You’ve got this feeling it should be easy, but somehow it isn’t. Making your skin look perfect with the help of foundation can seem like a challenging task – with so many tools, tips and techniques out there, it can be hard to know where to start.
But if you’re searching for advice on the best way to apply foundation for your skin, your look and your routine, look no further. Our application guide is here with all the information you need to get the perfect finish, first time.
Find your formula
It all starts with finding the right foundation for your skin type and tone. Ideally, your foundation should blend seamlessly to create an even base. If you have dry skin, you’ll want something more hydrating, while if your skin is oily or combination, it’s better to opt for something with absorption built in.
Here at DCYPHER, we take the stress out of choosing your foundation with our world-first technology and cutting-edge mixing equipment. By taking three photos of your skin and asking three questions about your coverage and finish preferences, our Skin Tone Analyser assesses your complexion and gives you a unique Skin Tone ID – representing one of the thousands of shades we can blend. From there our advanced blending machines create your personalised formula – drop by drop. It’s the simplest, most accurate way to find your forever foundation.
Prep your skin for foundation
The perfect application starts with the perfect preparation. First, make sure your skin is extra clean, using a gentle cleanser to remove any lingering makeup or dirt. We recommend exfoliating two or three times a week as well, to avoid any flakiness that might interfere with your foundation.
Next, apply a thin layer of moisturiser and wait until it’s completely absorbed. Moisturiser is your best friend when it comes to keeping skin hydrated, plumping out fine lines and reducing patchiness. Follow it with a primer of your choice to complete the prep, selecting one that’s right for your complexion’s needs – whether that’s smoothing, mattifying or colour-correcting. Once that’s dry, pick up your bottle of DCYPHER Custom Foundation – and let’s get applying.
Foundation at your fingertips
The fastest, most accessible application tools for applying foundation are, of course, your fingers. While they’re not necessarily what our experts would recommend – using your fingers can make buffing and blending difficult – you can achieve a good natural look quickly and efficiently this way.
For best results, apply some foundation to your hand first, then use the tips of your fingers to gently tap it onto your skin, taking care to blend it in as much as you can. Remember, never rub or wipe – it’s foundation, not moisturiser.
How to apply foundation with a brush
In our professional opinion, the best tool for applying flawless foundation is hands-down a brush. Choose a thin-bristled, synthetic one for best results, and start by applying several dots of product to your skin. From there, dab the brush to distribute and blend, always using stippling or buffing motions to spread the foundation evenly across your face.
DCYPHER’s four-piece Professional Complexion Brush Set is the perfect toolkit for achieving the perfect finish. Comprising a powder brush, foundation buffer brush, concealer buffer brush and precision concealer brush, it’s got everything you need to apply foundation like a pro. Our brushes are designed to partner perfectly with our Custom Foundation and Coverage Drops, but will help you get that flawless look with any makeup set.
Using a sponge to apply foundation
If you’re chasing that airbrushed finish, a sponge might just be the ideal tool for you. Choose an egg-shaped one for extra precision, and be sure to soak it and squeeze all the excess water out of it before getting started.
Dip the sponge in your foundation to get a light coating on the tip. Then, use a dabbing motion to bounce the sponge all over your face. Don’t wipe or use painting movements, as this could lead to streakiness.
How to use layers for the perfect foundation finish
One of our favourite foundation application techniques is layering. This technique focuses on applying product to the areas that need it, and is great for giving you long-lasting, non-cakey coverage that’s less likely to crease throughout the day. To get it right, start with your T-zone, then move outwards to incorporate the sides of your nose, and finally anything that needs a little extra coverage, such as imperfections and blemishes.
You might want to apply several thin layers of foundation in the places you feel it’s needed, allowing each one to dry completely before adding more. Just remember – you don’t necessarily need to apply foundation everywhere. If you have a perfect skin tone match, you can use it to balance out only the parts of your complexion that need attention. It’s all about letting your natural beauty shine through.
