If your foundation looks cakey after you've applied it, then you're not done blending. Use your damp Beautyblender to gently stamp your foundation (or BB cream, or tinted moisturizer) into your skin over and over again until it has basically set (about three minutes).
No matter what tool you're using—a foundation brush, a BeautyBlender, or your fingers—buff (or bounce, if you're using a sponge) the foundation into your skin as opposed to “painting” it on to build coverage smoothly and avoid streakiness, says Park.
Uneven skin texture can come in many forms, from under-the-skin bumps, to large, visible pores, or fine lines and wrinkles, all of which can contribute to foundation not sitting smoothly on the skin.
A great makeup application takes that texture into account—makeup won't look smooth if the surface under it isn't smooth. The right prep routine for you could be an AHA, a dewy moisturizer, or a mattifying primer—makeup artists use them all.
You apply too much foundation
“Too much product on the skin doesn't look natural,” says Naoko. “Foundation is about enhancing, not masking – I would always advise using a small amount and then if more is needed, build it up gradually.”
Use a primer
One of the most important steps before applying makeup is to use a primer. Primers help to smoothen out the skin by filling in any crease or large pores.
Applying foundation in thin layers can give you more coverage without making your skin look cakey. It also helps prevent any creasing of makeup throughout the day so that your face always looks fresh and natural. This technique will give your skin full coverage that lasts longer.
Fingers are best for a quick and natural application; sponges are good for achieving a flawless finish; and brushes are ideal for full coverage. And sometimes, a little mixing and matching can go a long way.
Remember, there's no “best way” to apply your foundation, as both application techniques have their perks and unique touch. Applying foundation with a brush achieves flawless coverage and a precise, even finish. When you apply foundation with fingers, you tend to get a more natural effect that mimics your skin.
Bhatty likes to use moisturizer to make her own bespoke foundation—the moisturizer essentially thins out the foundation formula to get the most natural coverage. "The best way to do this is to add a drop or two of your foundation to your moisturizer," she says.
“Always allow your skincare or primers to rest a moment before proceeding to apply foundation,” says Lujan. “I like to re-distribute any moisturizer or primer from areas that didn't absorb or set before applying foundations.” Doing so will prevent caking as well as pilling, so it's a win-win.
It isn't necessary to use a Primer before foundation, yet there are many benefits to adding this product into your makeup bag. It all depends on your skin-type, skin concerns and the skin-finish that you desire.
“Textured or rough skin can cause patchy foundation as the product will settle in and emphasize any skin texture. It's best to gently exfoliate with a chemical exfoliant before the application to remove dead skin,” says Alex. A good rule of thumb is to use an exfoliant 2x a week.
Blend The Foundation Lighter Than You
When in doubt, always pick a shade that is slightly lighter than your complexion rather than darker. This can prevent your complexion from looking darker than the rest of your body. It is the safest way to go when unsure about two shades that may look too light or too dark.
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.
The first step is wetting your sponge. You should never use a makeup sponge dry to apply foundation, especially if it's a beautyblender, says Bartlett. She recommends squishing it under water about eight times until it's fully saturated. Then, wring out the excess water.
I like to use brushes for application when I want to focus on a detail area, or when I want to use a sheer finish and give a wash over the skin. If the skin is really dry, I only use damp brushes when applying. Generally speaking, sponges can give more coverage, while brushes can be more sheer.”
Starting from the center of your face and moving outwards, blend with the pads of your fingers, patting and rubbing into your face-folds as you see fit. Keep going until the foundation is invisible. If that's not enough coverage for you, dot again and go.
This is because the bristles of the brush can irritate your skin and make it look flaky. The smooth, soft surface of a beauty blender is much gentler on the skin, and can help you flawlessly apply makeup without leaving you with a cake face.