How to apply foundation: the ideal techniques for a perfect finish

Foundation is one of the most important parts of the process when it comes to more elaborate makeup for a party or a photo shoot. Natural-looking skin and beautiful, homogeneous luster are the result of a good foundation and correct application technique.

And it's one of the things that stands out the most when it's applied too much, too little or in a way that doesn't favor the natural texture of your face.

When you apply too little or do not spread well, the makeup finish is not homogeneous and even the following blush can be compromised. When you apply too much, your skin may have a rough texture, the product may crack, and your face may end up looking artificially aged.


Proper application of the product is therefore almost as important as acquiring a quality foundation that is ideal for your skin type.

Here are some of the main questions about applying foundation with makeup artist Neto Moreira and then showing you what options you have for applying it to your face.

Also read: 10 Beautiful Makeup Combinations to Get You Off the Basics


Which comes first: the primer or the base?

In the preparation of the skin, for a more satisfactory result in makeup, after sanitizing, toning and moisturizing, apply the primer and then the foundation. It will further tighten the pores, allow better control of greasiness and give more durability to this base.

Is there a right amount to spend?


The amount of foundation to apply depends on the type of coverage, the amount will reflect on the result providing lighter or denser skin. During the day, for example, the ideal is a lighter coverage. Care must also be taken not to apply too much product and the base will crack.

Is there any kind of foundation that is easier? to pass?

Read also: 15 cool ideas to have fun while getting ready

To facilitate foundation application, I recommend choosing slightly creamy liquid foundations using soft bristle sponges or brushes, as they allow equal coverage on all regions of the face.

Every time I use base should I dust?

This is up to each one. Mature skins should avoid the dust or use it only in the most oily area, as the powder shows expression marks.

How to apply base step by step

Applying the base is not necessarily just putting the product on the skin without any method. To achieve a beautiful, but more natural looking result, even the order of application is of some importance. Check out the following tutorial that fits most liquid bases for synthetic brush application.

Step by step:

  1. Before applying the foundation, it is recommended to cleanse the skin and tone it with a light moisturizer;
  2. Begin application on the forehead from the middle of the eyebrows by pulling slightly upwards to reach the entire forehead area;
  3. Then apply lightly across the eye area;
  4. The next step is to apply it up and down the nose, and then around the mouth and chin;
  5. Then apply the base to the cheeks, pulling out from the middle of the face, always with light movements that simulate the lifting of the face.
  6. If you applied with a brush, the suggestion is to lightly tap with a sponge to finish.

5 tools to apply foundation

Check out the topics below for the main tools you can use to apply foundation on your face and choose the one that best fits the product you have and your need.

1. With your fingers

This application does not have much secret. Just take a little product in your hand and spread it in the same order as the tutorial, top to bottom on the center of the face and then horizontally from the center to the outside of the cheeks. The cool thing about using your fingers is that you can massage the skin while applying the product, ensuring a smooth, even application and a smoother, more natural result. [video tutorial]

Benefits: It's practical and fast, easy to wash and costs nothing.

Disadvantages: The oiliness of the hand transfers a little to the face and if the makeup is waterproof, it can be a little annoying to remove it from the hand.

Best products: ultra-fluid products such as water-based bases, BB creams and sunscreens with color such as MAC Face and Body ($ 121) and BB Cream L? Oréal ($ 11.92).

2. With kabuki duo fiber brush

Kabuki brushes are chubby brushes with many bristles and cylindrical shape.In the case of duo fiber, the blend of synthetic fibers and natural fibers ensures almost completely brand-free application. To make the application with kabuki duo fiber, make light and rotating movements on the face, also following the same order of the tutorial. If the base is still a little scarred, just tap it lightly with a sponge on your face. [video tutorial]

Benefits: marks less than a synthetic fiber brush and provides quick application.

Disadvantages: good duo fiber brushes can often be a little expensive and brush application always requires at least weekly cleaning of the bristles.

Best products: liquid products, such as Diorskin Nude base (R $ 275) from Dior.

Options to buy: The Beauty Box ($ 23.92) and Océane ($ 17.99).

3. With ordinary synthetic brush

The ordinary synthetic brush is also very practical for applying the base. When using, always make light movements, following the step by step order. Finally, if the base is marked, lightly tap the face with a sponge or your own fingers.

Benefits: It absorbs less product, which avoids makeup waste.

Disadvantages: may leave the skin marked.

Best products: liquid and pasty products such as Revlon's Colorstay base.

Options to buy: Who said, Bernice? (R $ 30.51) and Dailus (R $ 17.91).

4. Common Sponge (Flat)

This is one of the most affordable tools at the price, as its price is around $ 5 and some multi-kits cost about $ 10. To use, just put a little foundation on the hand, take the product with light strokes and apply this way on the face. [video tutorial]

Benefits: The application has a very beautiful finish and it is cheap and quick to use.

Disadvantages: It absorbs a lot of product, so to use it it is necessary to place the base on another surface to reduce the waste.

Best products: Works well with any product, but is ideal for compact creamy foundations such as the Ideal Face Compact Avon Base ($ 12).

Options to buy: Belliz Kit (R $ 10,95) and Marco Boni Kit (R $ 17,53).

5. With Beauty Blender (and the like)

The base application with the? Egg? Type sponges It is very similar to the ordinary sponge, but its anatomical shape makes it easy to reach even the most difficult corners of the face, such as the areas near the eyes and the corners of the nose. It is worth remembering that the application should be done with light strokes and not with "strokes". [video tutorial]

Benefits: The application is quick and easy.

Disadvantages: It builds up more dirt than the other options, so cleaning should be a little more frequent and it also absorbs more product.

Best products: any base, but creamy is easier as the Maybelline Dream Matte Mousse Base ($ 29.99).

Options to buy: Beauty Blender (R $ 134,90) and Belliz (R $ 19,90).

6 videos with tips from bloggers about grassroots

Check out what each blogger has to share about their background experiences, after all, they test and use many different products every day and can give very interesting tips for those who want to learn or improve.

1. Basis for beginners by Catarina Eyelashes Blog

In this video the blogger gives very basic days and teaches everything that anyone who has never used foundation or makeup needs to know to make a beautiful application even without having experience. She explains everything in detail and very easily.

2. Skin Preparation by Camila Coelho

In this tutorial blogger Camila teaches a skin preparation, just beyond the base, she also gives tips of illuminator, concealer, brushes and some product suggestions.

3. Choosing the Right Base by Adrianna Ramos

Here vlogger Adrianna teaches you how to choose the base tone for your skin, giving very good tips on hot and cold tone, and also shows how she applies the foundation without using brushes, just with her fingers.

4. How to Use Powder Foundation by Blog Can this?

If you are interested in using the powder base because it is faster to apply, this video is ideal for learning how to use it correctly. The vlogger gives tips to make the finish look natural and not heavy.

5. Applying Stick Base by Blog Ale Bittencourt

Check out the blogger's tips on properly applying stick bases to ensure a beautiful and natural finish.

6. How to contour by Boca Rosa

Learn how to finish the skin with light and shadow techniques after applying the foundation. This type of finish is ideal for evening wear.

When it comes to basics, both application and product choice are a matter of trial, error and success. It may be that a base that looks good on your friend doesn't look good on you and vice versa. Therefore it is very important to always test products before purchasing.Many brands provide samples or allow you to try the product in stores before you take it home. So take advantage of this feature and don't give up on finding the perfect foundation to apply to your preference and need.

HOW TO PREVENT TEXTURED SKIN FOR SMOOTH FLAWLESS FOUNDATION!! (April 2024)


  • Make up
  • 1,230