In the
beginning…
Once upon a
time, there was only panstick! Now, there
are as many foundations, bases and tinted moisturisers on the market as you can
shake a foundation brush at and with advancing make-up technology better
foundations are being created which are unrecognisable from those original
thick, cakey pansticks. It can also be
mystifying which method of application you should use – “Is it ok to use my
fingers?” “Do I have to use a brush?” “Do I wet the sponge?” Well, here are a few tips and guidelines to
help you on your way.
It’s all in
the preparation…
*
In
the same way as when you paint a wall, it really pays to prep your skin before
you apply your make-up
*
Allow
your moisturiser or primer to settle into the skin before you start
*
If
you are prone to dry or flaky areas, it is advisable to exfoliate regularly
with a gentle product and ensure your moisturiser is the right one for you
A few
application tips:
*
Although
you can use your fingers to apply your base, you usually get a finer, more
professional finish with a foundation brush or sponge and you use less
product
*
Try
not to overload your brush/sponge; you can add more as you need it, this way
you apply a finer layer and get a more natural look, plus you don’t waste your
make-up
*
With
a liquid base, work off the back of your hand rather than direct from the
container, to be able to control how much you pick up
*
Unlike
skincare, it is best to apply your base in a downward motion, in the direction
that hair on your face grows so they lay flat (be thankful you have that hair,
as it holds your make-up on!)
*
You
can avoid brush marks by dabbing the flat of the brush all over your face once
you’ve spread it evenly around, to get a seamless finish
So much choice
We’ve
expanded our selection of bases over the years and here are some tips to help
you choose and apply the Helen É Cosmetics base that will best flatter your
skin and give you that flawless canvas to create your make-up look upon.
Skin
Smoother
This is the
original “block” base I created to get round the headache of selecting the
correct shade. It is a Skin Smoother
which means it meets between a tinted moisturiser and a foundation, giving
coverage without heaviness.
*
The
cream version benefits normal to dry skin types, giving a natural, soft
finish. It is very flattering on more
mature skin types as it softens the appearance of any lines. Ideal for giving the skin a very natural look
*
The
oil free Photo Finish format is suitable for all skin types, but particularly
benefits combination to oily skin types and is great for bridal and studio
situations.
*
Very
easy to apply with a dry sponge or foundation brush and extremely lightweight
on the skin. You get best results
starting in the centre of the face and working outwards, fading at the jaw and
hair line.
*
Take
care not to knead the product into the skin as this just lifts the product off
the skin and you could get a patchy result
*
If
a certain area needs more coverage, you can always add a little more, or use
the right concealer to adjust the coverage
*
If
you have redness you wish the cover, mix a little yellow concealer with the
Skin Smoother to blend it into the background
Stage
Liquid Foundation
This is a
full coverage foundation that can be built up as required. It is of particular benefit to drier skin
types as it is very creamy, yet lightweight.
*
With
a liquid base, work your way around each area of the face rather than putting a
dab on each section, as the product can start to dry while you are blending
another area and you could end up with an uneven finish
*
If
using a sponge, better used damp and with a slight kneading motion to work
product into skin
Stage Matte
Mousse
This is
ideal for normal to combination skin types, like younger skin types and also
has buildable coverage. Has a dry feel.
*
With
a mousse, blend your way around each area of the face
*
Give
the product time to warm to your skin to be able to get the most even finish.
I hope
these tips will help simplify choosing and applying your base and increase your
confidence in applying your make-up.
Keep
looking fabulous.
Helen x
http://www.helen-e.com
