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A Beginner’s Guide To The Different Types Of Foundation Makeup

April 26, 2018 By Lucy Tries It 1 Comment

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different types of foundation makeup

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A Beginner’s Guide To The Different Types Of Foundation Makeup

Listen, I know what it’s like when you first start getting into makeup.  It can be overwhelming!  One of the first makeup items you start looking at is foundation.  But there are so many different types of foundation makeup that you don’t even know where to start or how to choose the right one.

No need to worry.  I’ll walk you through the different types of foundation makeup you’re likely to come across and explain a little bit about each one.  

Related Article:  How To Use Foundation Primer

Makeup Foundation Guide For Beginners

Types of foundation makeup

Liquid Foundation

Liquid foundation is probably the most popular of all the different types of foundation makeup.  It comes in many different formulas and consistencies.  For example, some are more hydrating for dry skin, while others are better at absorbing oil.  Some offer super light coverage, while others provide full coverage.  Whatever your skin type is, you’ll be able to find a liquid formula that works for you.

Liquid foundation can be applied with just about anything – from makeup sponges and makeup brushes, to your bare fingertips.

L'Oréal Paris True Match Super-Blendable FoundationL’Oréal Paris True Match Super-Blendable FoundationL.A. Girl Pro Coverage Liquid FoundationL.A. Girl Pro Coverage Liquid FoundationMaybelline Fit Me Dewy + Smooth FoundationMaybelline Fit Me Dewy + Smooth Foundation

Related Article:  The Best Type Of Foundation For Oily Skin

Cream Foundation

Cream foundations usually come in a compact and are very pigmented.  They’re typically very thick and provide ultra full coverage.  I absolutely love how cream foundation photographs.  I find that cream foundations are usually better for extra dry skin and not the best for oily skin.  They’re also definitely too heavy to wear in the summer time.

The best way to apply cream foundation is with a makeup sponge, like a beauty blender.  Alternatively, disposable synthetic makeup sponges also work well.

Elizabeth Arden Flawless Finish Sponge On Cream MakeupElizabeth Arden Flawless Finish Sponge On Cream MakeupNeutrogena Healthy Skin Compact Makeup FoundationNeutrogena Healthy Skin Compact Makeup FoundationL'Oréal Paris True Match Super-Blendable Compact MakeupL’Oréal Paris True Match Super-Blendable Compact Makeup

Stick Foundation

This type of foundation comes in the form of a stick and is good for on the go application.  It gives a medium to full coverage.  To me, it’s pretty similar to cream foundation in thickness.  I don’t really like stick foundations for oily skin, but I think they work well for all other skin types.

You can apply this type of foundation directly to the skin, and then blend it out with a makeup sponge like this one.

Maybelline Fit Me Shine-Free + Balance Stick FoundationMaybelline Fit Me Shine-Free + Balance Stick FoundationNYX Mineral Foundation Stick - MSF07 Cool TanNYX Mineral Foundation Stick – MSF07 Cool Tane.l.f. Moisturizing Foundation Stick 83187 Almonde.l.f. Moisturizing Foundation Stick 83187 Almond

Whipped Foundation

Whipped foundation typically comes in a jar, though some come in bottles.  It is thicker than liquid foundation, but not at thick as cream foundation.  It has a sort of a light and airy quality to it, think like a whipped cream texture.  This type of foundation makeup is good for combination and textured skin and will give medium to full coverage.

I find these are best applied with plain ole’ fingertips.

Revlon ColorStay Whipped Crème Makeup, Sand BeigeRevlon ColorStay Whipped Crème Makeup, Sand BeigeMaybelline New York Dream Matte Mousse FoundationMaybelline New York Dream Matte Mousse FoundationtheBalm Even Steven Whipped Foundation, MediumtheBalm Even Steven Whipped Foundation, Medium

Powder Foundation

Powder foundation is usually pressed into a compact.    They’re great for oily skin as they’re typically great at absorbing excess oil.  You can achieve medium to full coverage.

You can apply this type of foundation with a thick kabuki brush for full coverage.  For lighter coverage, you can use a loose powder brush instead.

bareMinerals Barepro Performance Wear Powder FoundationbareMinerals Barepro Performance Wear Powder FoundationCOVERGIRL Clean Powder Foundation Buff BeigeCOVERGIRL Clean Powder Foundation Buff BeigeNYX MAKEUP Stay Matte but not Flat Powder FoundationNYX MAKEUP Stay Matte but not Flat Powder Foundation

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Relate Article:  The Best Type Of Face Powder For Oily Skin

Mineral Foundation

Mineral foundations are my favorite for everyday wear.  You can get a light to medium coverage from them and they’re super quick to apply.   They’re great for normal to oily skin types.  Mineral foundations are typically made of pure minerals, so they’re viewed as a more natural alternative to regular makeup.  I highly recommend this type of foundation if you have sensitive skin or are prone to acne.

A kabuki brush is the way to go for applying mineral foundation.

 

L'Oréal Paris True Match Loose Powder Mineral FoundationL’Oréal Paris True Match Loose Powder Mineral FoundationIQ:Natural Eco-Smart Formula Mineral Fair 2 FoundationIQ:Natural Eco-Smart Formula Mineral Fair 2 FoundationbareMinerals ORIGINAL SPF 15 Mineral FoundationbareMinerals ORIGINAL SPF 15 Mineral Foundation

Related Article:  The Best Mineral Foundation For Acne Prone Skin

Spray Foundation

Spray foundation comes in a canister, sort of like hair spray.  You basically spray the foundation onto your face and it delivers a light mist that is supposed to mimic professional airbrushed makeup.  You can spray the product directly on your face, or you can spray it on to a kabuki brush and buff it in to your skin.  Depending on the formula, you can achieve light to full coverage.

I’m personally not a big fan of spray foundations as I find them kind of messy to apply, but that’s just me.

Pur Minerals Liquid Veil 4-in-1 Spray FoundationPur Minerals Liquid Veil 4-in-1 Spray FoundationSEPHORA COLLECTION Perfection Mist Airbrush FoundationSEPHORA COLLECTION Perfection Mist Airbrush FoundationDiorSkin Airflash Spray Foundation by Christian DiorDiorSkin Airflash Spray Foundation by Christian Dior

Your Guide To The Different Types Of Foundation Makeup 

Well girl, there it is – your guide to the different types of foundation makeup you’re most likely to encounter as you shop.  Hopefully it has provided you with a solid foundation of foundation makeup knowledge.  Eh, eh, see what I did there? 😉

When you're a makeup newbie, it sure can be overwhelming shopping for your first foundation. But don't worry! I'll walk you through the different types of foundation makeup you're most likely to come across and explain a little bit about each one!


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Filed Under: Beauty Tips Tagged With: Foundation, Makeup Guides

« How To Use Foundation Primer
How To Choose The Right Foundation Makeup For Your Skin Type »

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Comments

  1. priyanka oza says

    December 12, 2018 at 8:56 am

    Great information. Thanks for the wonderful article, it may be very helpful for everyone who is conscious about.

    Reply

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