Mecca Cosmetica's Head of Artistry Tony Baumann Shares His Top Tips for Choosing Foundation

by POPSUGAR Beauty AU 0

Foundation forms the base of your makeup so choosing the right shade, texture and formula is one of the most important (and often toughest) decisions you have to make. We were lucky enough to catch up with makeup guru Tony Baumann, Head of Artistry at Mecca Cosmetica, who gave us the lowdown on what to aim for when selecting your perfect match.

TIP #1: Think skin — your skin type will determine what formulation you should use. Oilier skin will benefit from mattifying and oil-absorbing formulas and your foundation also needs to have lasting power. Try NARS Sheer Matte Foundation ($99). Drier skin on the other hand will love hydrating and illuminating formulations like Stila Illuminating Foundation ($90). For normal skin types, the choice is yours, but Tony's top pick is NARS Sheer Glow Foundation ($99) for that radiant, perfect finish.

Read on for more of Tony's top foundation tips . . .

TIP #2: When choosing your colour, always try two or even three shades to get the perfect match. Stripe them on your cheeks (it's better than the jawline, as this is where you need the coverage) and lightly blend into your skin. If the colour looks yellow, it's too dark; if it goes ashy or white, it's too light and if it blends right into the skin it's the one — it's that easy! If in doubt, move into a natural light to confirm your choice.

TIP #3: Create your own foundation wardrobe as you would your fashion wardrobe — unfortunately, one formulation won't see you through day, play and nighttime. If you're spending time outdoors, Mecca Cosmetica In A Good Light SPF 30+ ($50) offers brilliant protection with a natural finish. At night you need a fuller coverage with that extra wow factor, so try By Terry Lumiere Veloutee Ultra Correcting Liquid Foundation ($158) — it's perfect for all skin types, offers full coverage and is light reflective, flawless and spectacular.

TIP #4: Change your foundation in Winter — most women will need to go one shade lighter. Always buy your new foundation at the start of the season so by the time it's finished you can replenish it with your new season colour.

TIP #5: Get some multi-tasking foundation accessories to add to your foundation wardrobe so you can dress up your current foundation. My pick is the new NARS Orgasm Illuminator ($69), which can be applied under, in and over your foundation to add that red carpet glow.