How to choose the right foundation formula

Your makeup routine starts with your base, so there’s no doubt that getting your foundation right is crucial. If you’ve nailed your base, the rest of your makeup should come together seamlessly. But unless you’re using the right formula of foundation for your skin type, your makeup will never look quite right.

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If you’re not sure how to choose foundation to suit your skin type, you’ve come to the right place. We spoke to National Makeup Director for Lancôme, Lara Srokowski, to get her best tips on how to choose foundation for your skin type and achieve your most flawless base ever.

Which foundation formula is best for oily skin?

According to Lara, anyone with an oily skin type should avoid oil-based formulas. “If you have oily skin you are best to opt for something oil-free with more of a matte finish,” says Lara. “If you have oily skin you may also suffer from open pores, so I would recommend using an oil-free primer to help to control any oil and for a long wearing result.”

bh loves: L’Oréal Paris Infallible Matte Foundation, Covergirl Outlast Active Foundation

Is there a formula that is better suited for dry skin types?

“Yes, if you have dry skin I would recommend using a liquid foundation with a dewy finish,” recommends Lara. Dry skin types should also focus on having a good skin care regime before applying makeup. “A trick to creating more of a hydrating texture is to add a pump of your favourite serum into your foundation for a healthy glow and to maximise your skin care results,” she says.

bh loves: COVERGIRL Outlast Stay Luminous Natural Glow Foundation, endota spa Liquid Radiance Foundation

How should anyone with combination skin choose a foundation?

If you have this skin type you’re in luck as most foundations are suitable for combination skin. “Combination skin is your most common skin type which means you have a healthy balance of oil through the T zone and are comfortable in the cheeks,” explains Lara. “Try setting your foundation with a light compact powder, focus on applying to the T zone area to prevent any unwanted shine throughout the day.”

bh loves: Estée Lauder Double Wear Nude Water Fresh Makeup SPF 25, Bourjois Healthy Mix Foundation

What’s the best foundation formula for acne-prone skin?

If you have acne-prone skin, you’ll want a foundation that offers full coverage with a long-wearing formula. “I would recommend using a liquid and a powder foundation together to achieve a fuller coverage,” says Lara. “Use a foundation that is oil-free like Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra Wear for extra coverage and to mattify the skin. Before setting your foundation, apply a high coverage concealer with a small brush to the areas you wish to achieve more coverage.” After you’ve applied your foundation, set the look with a long-wearing powder.

bh loves: Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra Wear, M.A.C Pro Longwear Nourishing Waterproof Foundation

What’s the best foundation formula for ageing skin?

“The best formula for someone with any ageing concerns is a natural liquid foundation with a dewy finish,” explains Lara. Look for a foundation that’s enriched with skin care to help to target any anti-aging concerns. “Avoid using any heavy powders and keep the skin extra dewy by priming the skin with a hydrating primer,” she says.

bh loves: La Mer The Soft Fluid Long Wear Foundation SPF 20, Ultraceuticals Ultra CC Powder Pure Mineral Foundation

What’s the best foundation formula for normal skin?

Normal skin types can get away with wearing any type of foundation, however Lara recommends something that’s sheer and lightweight to mimic the natural skin tone.

bh loves: Lancôme Miracle Cushion, Jane Iredale Liquid Minerals Foundation

Should you change the way you apply your foundation based on the type of formula you’re using?

The type of makeup brush you use should change based on the foundation formula that you’re using. “Foundation brushes are best utilized with liquid formulas, so I usually use a combination of two foundation brushes one to apply the products and a bigger stippling brush to diffuse the product out,” explains Lara. But what about Beauty Blenders and sponges? Lara says that these work best when you want to add coverage or apply concealer to a smaller area. “For a powder foundation I prefer to set the makeup by using a big fluffy brush and then use the sponge applicator that comes with the powder for touch-ups throughout the day,” she says.

bh loves: asap pure kabuki brush ($25, adorebeauty.com.au), QVS Professional Foundation Sponge

Are you using the right foundation formula for your skin type? What’s your favourite foundation?