How to choose the right foundation for your skin type

Q – How do I choose the right foundation for my skin type?

"Picking a foundation is hard as it comes in countless shades and formulas. If you have oily skin, use a powder foundation or an oil- free liquid version. These contain powders that absorb oil, leaving you with a smooth, matte finish. Mineral foundations also work well because the dry particles tend to absorb moisture and prevent any shine. Alternatively, if you have combination skin which is oily in some places and dry in others, then you may have a tougher job finding something to suit. I recommend mixing foundations to create a product that suits your needs. Those of you who have sensitive skin or struggle with acne, it’s best to avoid certain ingredients that can irritate your skin such as alcohol and fragrance based products.

"There are a few tests you can do to determine if your undertone is warm, cool or neutral. This involves assessing your hair and eye colour, what hue you look best in, how you react to the sun and the shade of your veins. Naturally black, brown or blonde hair combined with green, grey or blue eyes is an indication of a cool undertone. Alternatively, hazel, brown or amber eyes combined with black, auburn or strawberry blonde hair indicates a warm undertone. Cool people tend to turn pink or burn easily in the sun while those who are warm will bronze or tan. Blue veins on the inner wrist indicate cool; green veins suggest warm and bluish-green is neutral. Use this information to select some foundations to try out. The best place to test them is by dabbing some swatches on your jawline. This area will be truer to your natural undertone and give you an idea of how the foundation will look against your neck. Do not try it on the back of your hand and ensure you are near natural light to see the true match of the colour."

Laura Timms 
Hair and make-up artist 
www.lauratimms.co.uk