Fingers, Sponge or a Foundation Brush?

The best way you could apply you foundation is...

Whichever way you find works best for you and your very own skin type. Simple as that.

We will start with the pro's and con's of using your finger tips to apply your foundation. You are able to achieve great placement of product, a nice overall coverage and the satisfaction of not wasting money on a sponge or having to clean a brush once finished. High five for that...but oh wait sorry, I have foundation all over my hands now and should probably clean that up first. Fingertips do not normally have the same characteristics as a make-up sponge would therefore not allowing the fabulous blended effect we all crave. No one wants to look as if they are wearing make-up, we would love for everyone to assume our skin is flawless when we roll out of bed in the morning. This is not usually the case for most...and if you are one of these people *cough* I hate you! :)

Moving onto the make-up sponge.

Shown above is the classic "triangle" sponge, which can be purchased in latex or non-latex ($5-$10 per package). I prefer non-latex as many people suffer from a latex allergy and it is better to be safe then sorry. These are a one time use a sponge, so no washing required, yet are not very "green" for our planet.

Here is a photo of the Beauty Blender ($26-$33, found at Sephora). A larger, more contoured sponged made to make your life easier. This sponge is washable and can be reused many times (money saver). With having a pointed end you are able to get into the creases of your face, next to your nose, under your eyes. Adding a small amount of water to the sponge prior to foundation application it will allow you to create a sheer and natural look but still covering any imperfections.

My new found love. This is called a gourd sponge. I came across this beauty at Shoppers Drug Mart ($5). It has a pointed tip just like the Beauty Blender but also a contoured centre for easy holding. This sponge is also washable and can be reused. (BIG money saver). Also, feel free to add a bit of water to this sponge prior to application, it works well and I highly recommend trying it out. It is a step up from your little fingertips and won't break the bank!!



The cherry on top, the foundation brushes!

When finally finding your perfect foundation for your skin type, and skin color, all you want is the right brush to go with it. Investing in at least one foundation brush will be worth it. All brushes are washable with either a make-up brush disinfecting wash or if it is only used for personal use you can clean it every few days with a little baby shampoo (allow to air dry overnight). This will keep your brush working great for a long time.

Here is a photo of a Lise Watier foundation brush (my favorite $26). Foundation brushes can range from $20-$60 depending on the brand. With the combination of your foundation and a brush you have the ability to create a perfect canvas to apply the rest of your make-up. Using a brush in a more of a circular motion rather then straight lines will blend your foundation the best. Play around with different strokes, trying to avoid making lines on your face. Finishing with either your fingertips or a sponge of your choice, blend your foundation into your hairline, onto the edge of your ears and down your neck.

Have fun trying new ways to apply your make-up. There is no wrong or right way!

My New Loves...

As a make-up artist I always want to try new products. If my wallet was unlimited I would have it all, everything new on the market and all my favorites to this day. Oh, one can dream.

I did however come across a few new items that have immediately made it into my FAVORITE list:

1. Urban Decay transparent eyeshadow primer, this has been no doubt the best primer for eyeshadow I have ever come across. Many used in the past cause creasing or do not allow shadows to blend properly. Not this primer...it goes on smooth, it is transparent so it works well with any skin tone, it doesn't cause any creasing and helps your shadow colors remain bold and last all day. Bonus!

2. Buxom plumping lipgloss, it has a minty smell and when applied on your lips instantly feels refreshing and has a plumping ingredient for that little bee stung look. I know I like the tingling feeling of a plumping gloss, it isn't everyone's cup o' tea but if you have never tried it yourself, it is a must. Beautiful colors for every occasion too.

3. Stila Bronzer, a non-cakey, non-"rolled in the dirt" look. Creates a beautiful, natural bronze for women that don't like to bake in a tube to get some color. Applied to the tops of your cheekbones, across your forehead and over the bridge of your nose is best to acheive a sun-kissed look (these areas are where the sun would naturally "kiss" your face...hence the term).








Along with these fabulous new items I have the classic list of favorites as well:

1. MakeUp Forever HD Foundation, great coverage and it doesn't look thick or unnatural. A sure thing for photoshoots or Brides. With an easy pump-style top, you will never pour out too much product.

2. MAC Lipglass in clear, this lip"glass" creates the most beautiful shiney lip. It does however have a sticky base so kissing is out of the question while wearing it, but it is bound to turn heads. It instantly gives your lips the look of glass and when applied over your favorite lipstick color it completes the look.

3. CoverFX face primer, more specifically the skin brightening primer. If you are like me with larger pores that are difficult to cover or fine lines around your eyes, mouth or on your forehead this primer is great. Goes on smooth and hides all the imperfections to start your make-up application right, which is key to a flawless complexion.
















4. Nars blush, to this day I swear by the colors of blush this brand carries. Personal favorites are Orgasm(peachy), Super Orgasm(peach with illuminator) and Deep Throat(peachy/pink with illuminator...yes, I know, interesting choice of names but I kid you not they are beautiful colors and look so good on!





Try out some new products and give your look a kick start!!

Happy Pampering.