What is the best way to apply liquid foundation?

Question

I have tried numerous brands and techniques but mine always ends up clumping and looking like dry skin. I even used one of the triangular sponge things, but it worked to no avail. Any help?

Answer 1

I was going to say sponges, but since you said it doesn't work, then I'll suggest something else.

Have you tried to perhaps change your foundation? A good liquid foundation should not dry to a clump. So maybe the formula is too heavy for you or your product isn't of very good quality. When you go shopping, test a little on your arm to see how it dries and how it matches your skin.

Try maybe a tinted moisturizer. It's not as heavy as foundation, but evens out the skin tone and you only need your fingers to apply it!

You can also use your fingers once you've got a good foundation. The heat from your body will help blend your product. Don't forget to moisturize first so it will go on smoothly.

I know you said no sponges, but I have a little trick. Moisten the sponge with some water or moisturizer first before dipping into foundation. This will help the product blend and your finish will not be dry and cakey.

You can also use a foundation brush. Or my favorite trick is to use a blush/powder brush to apply it. It might seem weird at first. So you dip it into the liquid, and take out excess product. Then just run it over the area. When it dries, if it looks like too much, mist with a bit of water and go over your face with a Kleenex or a sponge to take out excess stuff. Repeat until you've got a natural look. This finishing trick should be done no matter which procedure you choose.

If my answer seems too confusing, you could head over to your local department store or Sephora and ask one of the ladies (or gentlemen) for a free consultation. They will be glad to answer any questions you have.

Well, hope I helped. Good luck!

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IC

Answer 2

As someone who knows makeup very well...it sounds to me that you are not prepping your skin properly. Are you using the right cleanser? Exfoliating every other day? Using a toner to balance your pH and finish the cleansing process? Make sure you are giving your skin enough moisture as well. Furthermore, are you using the right foundation? It might be that you indeed have dry skin. In that case have a beauty expert at a cosmetics counter in your mall match you for the right formula and shade of foundation. (Lancome always matches foundations for free and will give you a ten-day supply of it to try). Using a foundation brush will also provide a smooth, flawless, even finish. When you use a foundation brush, put some foundation on the back of your clean, free hand. A little goes a LONG way with a foundation brush...so use your foundation sparingly. Start from the center of your face and work your way out, up and down. Use short, quick strokes to minimize the appearance of brush strokes. Blend into your hairline and jawline.
BTW: for others who use a sponge...dont! They are a waste of money, bad for the environment and drink up your foundation. I also know there a few of you who reuse those sponges as well....just think of the dust, dirt, and bacteria you are putting on your face when you reuse that sponge! (do you share toothbrushes???)
Hope this helps!

Answer 3

I used to use one of those sponges too, but my makeup artist said that they are not good for you. They attract bacteria. I have my makeup applied with a foundation brush. If I am doing my own make up I squirt a little dab of the foundation on the backside of my hand and lightly dab the foundation brush into the foundation and apply. I love it. If you are unsure about this, go to Wal-Mart and buy a cheaper one first to see if you will like it. I think you can get one for $2-$3 bucks. If you like it, go to your make up counter to buy a professional one. Just make sure you clean the brush after each use and store in a airy place. Hope this helps.

Answer 4

You can use your finger or foundation brush, well it is depend on you. If you always end up with looking clumping and cakey, maybe the problem is in your foundation..

application technique is important, but right application must supported by right product.

apply a light weight water base foundation, for dry skin, if you feel your skin is dry, dont use it too much (it is important), and dust a transparent loose powder after that.

Answer 5

THE MINUTE you get out of the shower, apply a good layer of moisturizer to your skin. This will seal in the moisture from the shower and make it way easier to apply your foundation later. When it comes time to apply the foundation, put a little dab of moisturizer on your fingertips, add a few drops of foundation, and mix it all up. This helps it go on REALLY smoothly.

If your skin is flaky to start with, use Loreal's Refinish microdermabrasion kit to get rid of the flakes before applying the first application of moisturizer.

Answer 6

I think it's the kind of foundation you're using if it gets all clumpy and dry.
What is your skin type?
Dry?
Oily?
Both?
Try using a mousse foundation if you have dry skin. That way, it wont look all dried up and clumpy.
Maybelline and Covergirl both make great mousse foundations for about $7
Or you can just try any other liquid foundation but just a different brand
maybe that one you have just isnt right for you
Well I dont know if this was your exact question but I hope this helped

Answer 7

You should put a little bit of the liquid on the opposite hand. Put a dab of it on your forehead, cheeks, chin, nose, and jawline. You should work outwards, then blend. Use more liquid for areas like the nose and under the eyes. Use less liquid around the ears and the lips (because they may make lines). After you are done, lightly go over your face with cover-up powder (probably one coat should be enough) that is the same tone as the liquid because it makes your face and complexion look more natural. It also makes the liquid stay on longer.

Answer 8

Use a foundation brush. This works best for an even, smooth finish.

If it looks dry, you need to use a moisturizer under it and or a foundation primer. My fave foundation is by Exuviance. It works great and has polyhydroxies to treat your skin as you wear it.

Answer 9

THERE ARE MANY GREAT ANSWERS HERE! I JUST WANT TO MAKE A FEW SIMPLE POINTS, NOT TO CONFUSE YOU:
1) MAKE SURE YOUR HANDS ARE CLEAN!
2) APPLY FOUNDATION FROM TOP TO BOTTOM, RUBBING DOWN, SO AS TO NOT MAKE THE FINE HAIRS ON YOUR FACE STAND ON END.
3) USE A FOUNDATION (AND MOISTURIZER) SUITED SPECIFICALLY TO YOUR SKIN TYPE.
4) MOISTURIZER IS VERY IMPORTANT AND CAN BE SWIRLED IN WITH YOUR FOUNDATION.

Good luck finding what you need!

Answer 10

You need to apply moisturizer to ur face so the make up goes on smooth and absorbs into the skin nicely and naturally