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. |