Finishing Foundation

I have a hard time choosing a shade of foundation. How do I find one that is right for me? The right foundation balances your skin tone and makes your face come alive. The wrong foundation...well, we all know how unnatural a foundation that's too light or too dark can look. To find the right foundation for your skin color, makeup expert Vincent Longo recommends this method: First test the base or foundation color by applying a thin line of color to the jaw line. This will allow you to compare color to the skin on the face as well as the neck to avoid any obvious differences. The color should blend perfectly with your skin tone. As the seasons change, it's a good idea to adjust the color and texture of your foundation accordingly. While your sunscreen will protect your skin from changes in pigmentation, variations in climate may make a new formulation more comfortable. Summer foundations tend to have a sheer texture and are often deeper in tone, while a lighter shade with more complete coverage is often preferred in winter months. back to top
	What is the best way to camouflage a blemish without looking like I've piled on a ton of makeup? We put this one to renowned makeup artist Vincent Longo, who told us the key to a good cover-up is choosing the right color. First, choose a concealer base that matches your skin tone. Avoid using a color lighter than your skin tone because it will only draw more attention to the problem area. Once you have the right color, apply the concealer by dabbing just a little of the product onto the center of the pimple, then blending it outwards towards the edges and into the skin. back to top
	I'm not into heavy makeup, but tinted moisturizers don't offer enough coverage. What can I do? Depend on layers of sheer foundation, concealer and powder to keep you covered this summer. You don't need to mask the entire surface of your face, apply products only where you need them to ensure the most natural finish. Neutralize the redness in your skin with a sheer, yellow-based foundation like Lorac Oil Free Makeup. Apply it to the center of your face and blend outward with your fingers until it disappears. Next, use a concealer to hide breakouts, sunspots and capillaries that show through the foundation. Use Nars Point Concealer Brush with Stila Face Concealer (available at Sephora stores) for an undetectable cover. For a final touch, apply Alchemy Loose Powder which contains ingredients that absorb oil and set foundation for just the right finish all day. If you need a touchup, try Anna Sui Blotting Papers - they absorb the mid- afternoon "greasies" without disturbing your makeup. back to top
	I like matte looking skin but I don't want a mask of foundation - help! Matte, polished skin is modern again, but you don't have to wear heavy or opaque foundation to get the look. Try a multi-use foundation like Stila Sport Pivotal Skin Foundation. The weightless formula veils your skin with sheer color and minimizes pores, leaving a subtle matte finish. Next, use a clean velvety puff like Paula Dorf Powder Puff to set the foundation. Instead of using powder, which can look heavy, keep the puff clean and press and roll the puff over the foundation - this will absorb any shine on your skin and set the foundation for all day wear. If you need a touchup, try Anna Sui Blotting Papers, they absorb the mid-afternoon "greasies" without disturbing your makeup. back to top
	I'm melting! I live in a hot, humid area and my makeup disintegrates within hours. Are there long-lasting products that look natural, not heavy? Sizzle-proof your look and follow these simple steps to minimize makeup meltdown: Start by controlling the oils that break-down makeup and give you the greasies by priming skin with a sebum-controlling product like Philosophy Never Let Them See You Shine. Next, opt for long-lasting color like Bourjois Non-Transfer Cream Eye Shadow, Sephora Artist Waterproof Liquid Liners and Vincent Longo Waterproof Mascara. For a healthy, heatproof hint of color on cheeks and lips, try a stain like Lorac Sheer Wash. And remember-any product will stay put if you top it with BeneFit SheLaq, a makeup sealant. Just brush this product over eyeliner, lipstick and brows to laminate the look.