Different Foundation Makeup Types
Exploring Liquid, Cream, Powder & Other Cosmetic Foundation Formulas
Everyone knows that it is important to choose the right color for their skin tone, but what about the different formulas? Here we explore various foundation types.
Choosing the right foundation is an important part of your makeup routine. The type of coverage you choose is just as important as the color you choose. The various textures will cover in different ways, and as a result even choosing a color of the same name can appear to be different colors on the skin. Foundation is a constantly evolving beauty product and there is a formula available for every skin type and tone.
Coverage Types
Generally speaking, there are three major types of “foundation weights” available. The term “weight” refers to the opacity of the foundation and is directly correlated to the coverage results obtained when applied to your skin.
- Sheer – Sheer coverage is lightweight and provides minimal coverage of the skin. This type of coverage will be the softest and least noticeable.
- Medium – Medium coverage is the standard coverage formula. It provides light to medium coverage and can be used sparingly for less coverage or built upon with other products, such as powder, for a more opaque, heavy coverage.
- Heavy – Heavy coverage will cover almost any imperfection in the skin, and is usually on par with the texture of a concealer. Color match is especially important in this category.
The Most Popular Foundation Types
Tinted Moisturizers – All Skin Types
Tinted Moisturizers are exactly what their name would have you expect. They are moisturizers with a slight tint to them, often contain sunscreen, and are the lightest and easiest to use foundation makeup. Falling into the sheer category, tinted moisturizers are ideal for someone who is just starting out with makeup, such as a teenager or for someone who wants to even out skin tone with minimal effort. Because this product is also a moisturizer, there is no need to also apply a daily moisturizer with this product. Use clean hands or a foundation brush to apply this type of makeup.
Liquid Foundation – Dry, Normal, or Combination Skin Types
Liquid foundation is one of the most popular formulas in foundation makeup. It's widely available in sheer, medium, or heavy coverage and in prices ranging from just a few dollars to more than $60 per bottle. Using a brush to apply liquid foundation will provide you with the best control, although many people prefer to apply the makeup with a damp or dry sponge. Liquid foundation is best for those who seek medium coverage, have a few fine lines or wrinkles, or basic, every day coverage.
Cream Foundation – Dry to Normal Skin Types
Cream foundation isn't as popular as liquid foundation, but it is an excellent choice for those who have dry skin or more mature skin. It falls into the medium to heavy coverage areas, and it's rich and luxurious consistency keep skin look soft and smooth, without drawing attention to fine lines and wrinkles. Many companies offer a cream to powder formula, which applies like a cream, but dries with a matte, powder-like texture. This makeup is best applied with a foundation brush or with the sponge supplied by the manufacturer.
Powder Foundation – Combination to Oily Skin Types
Powder foundations often appear semi-matte or matte in appearance, making them the best choice for skin that tends to be on the oilier side. They provide medium to heavy coverage and are best applied with a thick powder brush, such as a kabuki style brush, or the sponge supplied by the manufacturer. Powder foundations tend to be heavy in titanium dioxide, a common cosmetic ingredient and sunscreen, which makes them less than ideal for brides or anyone who may be in photographs. A separate powder for touching up throughout the day is recommended, as reapplying a powder foundation throughout the day will result in a heavy, caked-on appearance. Oily skin types may also prefer to use a foundation primer before applying their makeup. This will help control shine and increase the time in between touching up.
Mineral Makeup – All Skin Types
Mineral makeup is one of the hottest trends in beauty right now. Designed for all skin types, most mineral makeup brands can be used in its original powder state or by adding a little water to make a liquid foundation. When using mineral makeup as a powder, you will get medium to heavy coverage by using a kabuki brush, or sheer to medium coverage by using a larger powder brush. To use as a liquid, dampen a foundation brush with water, dip into the mineral makeup, and apply to the skin. This method will create sheer to medium coverage.
More information on how to choose the right foundation can be found here.
