Some types of skin foundations work more effectively for different
skin types. Read on to find out what will work best for you.
Oil-free, matte or semi-matte foundations
are best because they are least likely to aggravate the acne,
however these do not cover or last as well as the oily foundations.
They are more difficult to apply and tend to collect around
skin blemishes. Loose transparent powders applied over the
oil-free foundation gives longer coverage.
For skin with many comedones sheer
foundations are best.
Inflamed acne needs moderate coverage.
Acne scars may need a cake foundation
with minimum oil.
Water-based creams or alcohol-based liquids can be used under
the foundation. If medicated gels are applied they need to
be allowed to dry before the foundation is used.
Examples:
Mattique® (L'Oreal). Liquid, moderate coverage
Shine Free® (Maybelline). Liquid, moderate coverage
Demi-Matte® (Estee Lauder). Liquid, moderate coverage
Oil Control Makeup® (Almay). Liquid, sheer
Makeup#3® (Prescriptives). Liquid, sheer
Moist semi-matte foundations are very good, especially if
there is not too much oil present.
Sheer is good for those who only need
some skin colour.
Moderate coverage may be desirable if your skin has variable
colors from chronic sun damage.
Oil-based or water-based foundations
with a moderate degree of oil give you the best chance of
retaining moisture in your skin. The oil will give a semi-matte
finish, and will be easier to apply.
Younger people may prefer a moderately
sheer, moist semi-matte look, and powder can be added to reduce
the shine. Older individuals may want to use moderate coverage
that does not accentuate their wrinkles.
If you have very dry skin a soufflé
foundation may be more helpful because they are oilier and
thicker. However, this can accentuate wrinkles. Another option
might be to apply a moisturizer followed by a less moisturizing
foundation.
Examples:
Makeup # 1® (Prescriptives) liquid, sheer,
Liquid Perfection® (Elizabeth Arden) liquid, moderate
Moisture Renew Makeup® (Almay) liquid, sheer
MoistureWear Cream® (CoverGirl) cream, moderate
If you are between the ages of 25 and 45, you are probably
in this category. You will have an oily forehead, nose and
the central cheeks area, commonly called the T-zone.
In this case, it's important to prepare your skin before you
apply the foundation. The oily areas should be treated with
an astringent, and the dry areas moisturized with an oil-free
product.
Oily or silicone based foundations
are needed and should be used with little or no water.
Examples:
Pan-stick Makeup® (MaxFactor) cream, full (opaque)
Crème Powder® (Almay) cream/powder
Powdercreme Makeup® (Revlon) cream/powder
It's important to take care of your skin after surgery in
order to aid the healing process.
No cosmetics should be used until the
epidermis has healed and the sutures are removed. Petroleum
Jelly may be used.
Foundations, if they are used too soon after procedures such
as chemical peel, or dermabrasion may encourage tiny skin
cysts or milia.
Once the epidermis has grown over, foundations
will cover redness as well as the early acne scars. They will
also as act as a sunscreen. Cream, or cream/powder formulations
are best in this situation. These are of particular value
after skin laser procedures to cover up the redness and /or
bruising.
Examples:
Continuous Coverage® (Clinique) cream
CremePowder Makeup® (Almay) cream/powder
Maximum Cover® (Estee Lauder) cream
An undercover or camouflage cream under
the foundation can be helpful to add better colour blocking.
For instance, a green coloured cream can be used if redness
needs to be hidden.
Powders and blushes can also be used over
the foundation for additional coverage. Powder will give a
matte or dull finish.
These cosmetics should be used for short periods, if possible,
and removed before bed using gentle skin cleansers. Special
removers may be required for the waterproof camouflage foundations.
These usually come as part of the package with each specialty
product. |