Stick, Liquid, Powder? What’s the best format for you?

Article by BR Natalie

Just as you'll pick a cleanser or moisturiser to suit your skin type, you'll get the most out of a foundation that suits your skin type.

If you're using the wrong foundation for your skin type you'll never achieve the finish you want. And no doubt you'll try to add more product to your face to correct the look.  It'll be a vicious circle!

One thing to bear in mind when buying foundation, is that your skin's need will change through the year.  Your dry, flakey Winter skin may in fact turn oily in the Summer.  And thanks to our Kiwi summers, chances are the shade of your skin will change.  So don't fall into the trap of sticking to the same brand, formula and shade every time you run out of foundation - it's always worth reassessing your skin's needs.

So here's our guide to what formula of foundation is best for you!

By Skin Type.

If you have dry skin avoid powder foundations.  You'll want to look for a cream or liquid makeup with words like 'hydrating' or 'moisturising' on the bottle.  Ingredients wise, look for 'glycerin' to buy a foundation that's more likely to apply easily.

For our gals with oily skin your best bet is either a powder foundation, as these will absorb excess oil from the skin, or a matte liquid foundation. Key words to look out for are 'oil control' and 'matte'/'mattifying'.

For combination skin you're going to have to look at what you are prone to the most.  Are you more oily or more dry?  Cream/Powder bases are probably you best bet, but the key is to create the best canvas you can using primer and only applying foundation where you need it.

For sensitive skin mineral foundations can be a god send.  And as they're available in powder and liquid forms you're going to be able to find one for your sensitive-dry or sensitive-oily skin.

For ageing/mature skin keep your eyes out for specific formulas for your age.  Foundation that sinks in to your wrinkles will make you look older.  If you don't need full coverage opt for an ultra moisturising tinted moisturiser or BB cream.

By Format.

Tinted Moisturiser/BB Cream are perfect if you're lucky enough to have naturally good skin and can get away with a lighter base.  These products will have a light, moisturing formula with a hint of colour to even out your skin tone.  Perfect for the hotter (and sweatier) summer months and as a 'starter' foundation for those just beginning to explore makeup.

Liquid Foundation are what  you think of when somebody says 'foundation'.  You probably picture little bottles filled with beigy liquids. Liquid is the most common form of foundation, but all liquid foundations are not created equal!  You can find many varieties; oil free, waterproof, added SPF and long lasting to name a few.  You'll also find a variety of finishes, most commonly matte or dewy.

With liquid foundation you can easily add more layers as needed, and it's also easier to achieve a more sheer look.

Cream Foundations are pretty much the same as liquid foundations just with a thicker consistency.  They're great for providing full coverage and work well with normal or dry skin.  It can be easy to over-apply a cream, so choose the right tool for the job!

Mousse Foundation is essentially liquid foundation whipped with air.  You'll find the same range of formulations for different skin types as you would for liquid and cream foundations.  The aim of this whipping is to create a light and smooth texture that will result in a (usually) matte finish. The light-weight feel of a mousse is fantastic for older skin as it doesn't tend to cake as much as regular liquid foundation.

Powder Foundation is really best for women with oily skin, where it serves the purpose of soaking up excess sebum.  You can apply using a brush or even a damp sponge for more coverage.  You'll usually buy powder foundation in a handy compact, which is awesome for touching up thought the day and great for minimum mess.

Cream to Powder Foundations are (you might have guessed) in the middle of cream foundations and powder foundations.  Don't be put off by their greasy appearance, once blended the creaminess moisturises your skin and you're left with a powdered matte finish.  These are great if you have normal / slightly dry / slightly oily skin, and can be a godsend for those with combination skin.

Stick Foundations are generally similar to cream-powder foundations. The silent hero of the foundation family,  as well as being clean and easy to apply, they're incredibly portable, no more crying over spilled foundation in your handbag or make up bag!  Stick foundations can be applied by striping them across your face and then blending by your chosen method. 

Sticks are also great for doubling up as concealers and can also help achieve the contouring look.   

Mineral Foundations appeal to those who are interested in natural makeup and offer a great solution for women with sensitive skin.  Although usually available in a powder form (which you'll apply with a big fluffy brush) you can get liquid mineral foundations.  Powdered mineral foundations work well with powder blushes and bronzers and can leave skin with a hint of shimmer.  However they can also be too shiny for mature skin, highlighting wrinkles and fine lines.

By Formula.

Sheer Foundations offer light coverage and won't lead to a cakey, flakey face.  You can build coverage easily.  Sheer foundations are made using silicones and are best for normal to dry skin.  They make for great starter foundations and will generally leave you with a dewy finish.

Oil Based Foundations are great for chronically dry skin.  The oil in the formula will hydrate and 'trap' moisture in the skin.  They also 'plump' out fine lines and wrinkles, making them a fantastic formula for the more mature skin.  Quick tip - shake the bottle before use, as the oil will separate.

Oil Free Foundations should be the go to formula for anyone with oily or acne prone skin - whatever the format you choose.  These are made with water so they'll dry quickly, meaning you'll want to work fast!  Always (always, always) moisturise and prime first, and consider using a damp sponge to apply.  They will leave a matte finish.

Dewy or Shimmer Foundations will leave you glowing. They're great for enhancing young, fresh faced skin and for lifting dull skin. Avoid these if you have oily skin, or consider using as a highlighter when contouring, by using a slightly lighter shade.

Long Lasting Foundations are great for when you know you wont have the chance to touch up your look. They're generally long lasting due to being waterproof, which is great for sweaty days.  However they will be much more difficult to remove, you might need to use a makeup remover before cleansing to avoid leaving residue in your pores.  If you're prone to blackheads or blocked pores, you might want to give these a miss,or only use them once in a while.

Phew, so there you have it.  A breakdown of foundation by Skin Type, Format and Formula.  So tell us Beauties; have you learned anything? Are you using the right foundation or is it time to go shopping?  Get chatting below!