You don't need to dampen your brush before applying foundation, as makeup brushes can be used dry. However, many people with dry skin like to spray their makeup brushes with a face mist before applying foundation, which can help give the skin a dewy finish.
Tapered Foundation Brush Guide
Tapered foundation brushes are usually flat, less full in form, with a gentle taper. These brushes are best for liquid foundation and other liquid products.
One trick I like to do is 'damp' whatever I'm using to apply my liquid foundation. So I would wash my foundation brush to clean it from the old foundation from the day before, then apply my liquid foundation while the brush is damp.
Apply your liquid foundation directly to your hand—this will help warm up the product. With your ring finger (which naturally uses the least amount of pressure), spread the product gently around your skin, starting in your T-zone and blending outwards.
Sprinkle recommends working with synthetic brushes if you're applying liquid foundations, as they're easier to sanitize, and create a smooth, even finish. "A sponge is great for sheering out creams and liquids," he adds. "However, keep in mind that it can absorb a lot of product."
Look for a brush with a flat, tapered tip like the NYX Professional Makeup Total Control Drop Foundation Brush or the Giorgio Armani Beauty Maestro Blender Brush to allow for more precise application. “Stipple brushes or using the stippling technique with a damp sponge also blends liquid foundation seamlessly.”
"Sometimes, especially if you have a more oily complexion, a foundation can also oxidize in color when it reacts to your skin, making it look streaky and unnatural. Let your makeup set for a minute before moving onto other products to ensure it doesn't get darker."
“Whether you use brushes or your fingers is really down to personal preference,” says Alex Phillips, Pro Makeup Artist at Trinny London. “There's no right or wrong.
Yes, many professional makeup artists and beauty gurus swear by applying liquid foundation with their fingers. This tactile approach provides a skin-like, natural makeup result since you're massaging the makeup onto your skin. Using your fingers works on all skin types and with both cream and liquid foundation.
Different women have different skin types and different needs, so if you want something that's quick and easy, we suggest stick; however, if you prefer a more hygienic and light look, liquid may be the best for you.
Other reasons for cakey foundation include dry skin, not layering your makeup in the correct order, and not using the right skin care products. Skipping out on exfoliation is another factor that can cause cakiness. Always make sure you prep your skin by exfoliating and moisturizing to help makeup go on smoothly.
You Need to Exfoliate
While moisturizing and priming play an important role in the end look of your foundation, Garshick says that exfoliation does, too. “Those who have a build-up of dead skin cells and don't exfoliate regularly may find their foundation appears cakey,” she says.
It is always a good idea to take a minute or two in between layers to check if you need more coverage. Remember to apply foundation only where necessary and gradually build up your coverage according to your skin needs.
Apply makeup with your fingertip instead of a brush or sponge; the heat from your hand warms up the product so it glides over peach fuzz. Finally, use a light touch and smooth on makeup in the direction hair is growing to help tamp it down.
Experts weigh in on topics and give us answers to difficult questions like whether or not primer really matters and if you should really spend any time on contouring your nose. You shouldn't put foundation on your neck. Makeup artists also warn against going crazy with contouring.
2. Don't apply foundation right after moisturizing. Always give your moisturizer time (as long as 15 minutes) to absorb into your skin before applying foundation. Otherwise, you can end up with a streaky mess.
Simply prime your face, apply the concealer under your eyes, around your mouth and nose over any spots or blemishes and you've got yourself a super lightweight, yet flawless base.