10 tips on how to apply foundation
When it comes to applying foundation, a common misconception is to think that picking the right shade is the most important part of it all. It is undoubtedly true that finding the colour that suits your skin plays a great part in the final result, however choosing the right brush is as critical, if not more.
You can certainly apply foundation using the tip of your fingers, massaging and blending the product to obtain as much coverage as you can. However, to achieve better result, coverage and a more natural look, especially if you are using a liquid foundation, it is imperative to use a good foundation brush.
Keep reading to find useful information on the right brush to use when applying foundation.
Types of foundation brushes: what to use?
So which brush suits your needs the most? Let us find out.
It is all depends on the effect you want you achieve: if it is full-coverage you are after, then a kabuki brush should be your first choice; if you prefer a sheer finish, then you can pick a lightweight stippling brush. You may want yet another brush, more ergonomic and oblique-shaped to blend the product in every little corner of your face, even the hardest spots to reach on your forehead or around the nose.
That is why no makeup brush is like the other nor has the same effect when blending the product on the skin.
. The Kabuki Brush
Ideal for applying and blending pressed and loose face powders, the Kabuki Brush by KIKO Milano has a dome shape which facilitates the collection and application of the desired amount of product with minimal wastage. It has a wider top which allows for an easier and quicker application, making it the perfect accessory for your daily beauty routine.
. The Stippling Brush
The stippling brush is the perfect solution to apply liquid or cream foundations, thanks to its cone shape and synthetic bristles. It is ideal to achieve airbrushed effects, letting the smooth bristles gently blend the powder or cream onto the skin. Another option could be using a flat brush with an arched shape, to achieve high-definition perfection all over the face. Even this other brush has synthetic and smooth bristles to guarantee ease of application.
. The “ergonomic” brush
The smart foundation brush is very special because it combines a flat and a “cat’s tongue” shape which allow to apply makeup flawlessly; it is ideal for fluid or cream foundations and to reach the trickiest corners of your face thanks to its extremely flexible bristles.
These are only a few of the brushes in KIKO Milano’s catalogue; as we mentioned, no brush is like the other, so it is extremely important to understand which one does it for you!
10 easy tips for applying foundation with a brush
We have seen together a few of the brushes that we can use. But how to use them? Here are some useful tips and steps to remember when applying foundation with a brush.
1. Moisturise your face before starting
Cleansing and moisturising the face is widely regarded as very important before applying any foundation on the face to set it up for success for the day ahead. A good skincare routine and picking a moisturiser that suits your skin and complexion the best are crucial factors playing a major role in the final result of you makeup application.
2. Pick your primer
Primer can be used to enhance your beauty routine. Face primers are useful to visually camouflage the pores, creating a base for long-lasting makeup. We always recommend starting to prep your skin with a good primer.
3. Stick to liquid foundations
Brushes achieve the best effects with liquid foundations as they tend to avoid getting a streaky effect but rather achieve a more airbrushed, natural effect.
4. Use a brush with synthetic bristles
As mentioned before, synthetic bristles make it easy and quick to apply foundation, so that is what you should go for when picking your brush in the first place.
5. Use a clean brush
Another little secret to get a sheer finish is to avoid that “cakey” effect by starting with a clean, dry brush with leftover product on it. Either keep spare brushes or wash yours regularly, so that your brush only has the fresh amount of product you want to apply on it.
6. Pour the right amount of foundation
You now have two options: either you pour some foundation onto the back of your hand, then dab the brush into it or, if your foundation comes in a tube you can squeeze, pump a small amount on your fingers, then rub them against your other fingers in circular motion, thus making the product more spreadable.
7. Apply the product
Now apply the product to your face to achieve a natural look. As we said above, start by applying a small amount first, then add more if required after blending. Once the product is on your face, it is time to blend, blend and blend.
Always start in the centre of your face and blend outward. People with fairer skins usually have the most redness around the nose area (you can use concealer to cover the redness) and cheeks area, so that is where you would want the most coverage.
Use short, paint-like strokes as your move the brush outward for the most natural finish using the top of the brush to reach every corner of your face. Because of the foundation brush's dense bristles and angled pyramid-shaped brush head, it is super easy to buff and blend without leaving behind streaks.
8. Final touches with a sponge
You can also use a sponge to blend in the product even further. Make sure you cover your jawline to avoid a fake look.
9. Let the foundation set
It is very important that you let your foundation set before continuing the application of makeup. You can use a setting cream to seal the foundation and prevent unwanted sheen.
10. Do not overdo
Foundations are not designed to cover marks entirely, so do not over-apply the product on the face or it would not look natural. This reduces the amounts of product being used and you will be surprised to see how amazingly…less is more!
BONUS: Remember to always clean your brushes properly after using them for foundation. You can use warm water and a mild soap or use the special mild detergent. Allow the brushes to dry thoroughly before storing them.
It was not that hard, was it?
Multi-purpose kabuki brush for face powders and foundation
face 16 multi-purpose kabuki brush
To conclude…
In conclusion, these are our 10 tips and main suggestions for you when you need to apply foundation with a brush. Pretty useful, right? All you can do is try, try, try (and sometimes fail) until you reach the result you want to achieve.
In a nutshell, remember that less is more and that a good brush and a good blending technique are all you need to achieve the best results! And there you go – your face is now a masterpiece!
