ALL ABOUT THAT FACE

Of all the products in our makeup bags, foundation is perhaps the most challenging. First, there's deciding which formula and finish is best for you: matte or dewy? Full-coverage or sheer? From there, it's down to deciphering your skin's undertone and finding the perfect shade match. Then, comes the added extra of arming yourself with the best tools for application, from brushes and sponges to just your own fingertips. And that’s all before the equally challenging task of applying flawlessly. It's almost as though you need the help of a professional just to figure it out — which is why we called upon our in-house Beauty Style Team, Aidan Corcoran and Elena Costello to steer us in the right direction.

From whether you really need a primer to knowing how to find the best foundation for you, keep scrolling for Aidan + Elena’s makeup masterclass in achieving a flawless base.

STEP 1: START WITH SKINCARE

“All good makeup starts with great skin,” says Elena. “It is so important to get the basics right to ensure a flawless base that will give you the perfect canvas to work with.” But what exactly does a good skincare routine entail? “I would recommend incorporating a double cleanse in your evening routine, along with regular exfoliation and weekly multi-masking to ensure your skin is at its optimum,” advises Elena. “Healthy skin is happy foundation,” agrees Aidan. “That said, you can cheat fabulous skin with key product placement. For example, the Westman Atelier Lit Up Highlight Stick gives a beautiful, plumped, warm sheen glow to the skin. Perfect for anyone who feels their skin looks a bit tired or lacklustre!”

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STEP 2: INVEST IN A PRIMER

“A makeup primer is your best friend when it comes to making your base last and look beautiful all day long,” explains Aidan. “Most primers now are multi-functional, like NARS Radiance primer. It gives a gorgeous apricot glow to the skin with an SPF of 35 too.” But, of course, that’s not the only choice. “I love the Laura Mercier primers, they have a primer to suit all concerns,” says Elena. “My go-to is the illuminating one, it gives a gorgeous ‘lit from within’ glow.”

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STEP 3: FIND YOUR SHADE

“When looking for the perfect foundation it’s so important to get the shade right, first and foremost!” says Aidan. “The last thing you want is a demarcation line to give the game away.” But finding the perfect match can be a challenging feat, Aidan’s advice? “The best way to check if the shade is right for you is to apply it along the jawline so you see how it looks on both the face and neck.”

TOP TIP: “I always go for an exact match with foundation and then add warmth and colour with bronzers and blush.” - Aidan Corcoran, Brown Thomas Beauty Stylist.

STEP 4: DISCOVER YOUR PERFECT BASE

“For me, a perfect base is one where you truly feel your best most confident self. Whether that’s full coverage or a barely-there base, it’s important that you feel confident,” says Elena. “Personally, my perfect base is a medium coverage foundation with clever concealing to brighten my complexion,” explains Elena. “I love to use a hydrating powder to avoid a powdery look and finish with a cream highlighter to really add radiance to the skin.”

TOP TIP: “A good powder is key to holding your base all day, taking shine away where necessary and giving a velvety glow to finish your look.” - Elena Costello, Brown Thomas Beauty Stylist.

“It’s also important to get the correct finish,” adds Aidan. “For example, if you have very dry skin and use a matte foundation, it will look dry and won’t sit right on the skin. The ideal match here would be a hydrating dewy foundation to enhance the skin.”

STEP 5: LESS IS MORE

“To avoid a cakey finish you need to do two things: firstly marry your products to your exact skin type and finish. Secondly, ensure you don’t apply too much product in areas where you don’t need it,” advises Aidan. “For example with smile lines, very rarely do people need a full-coverage layer of product in this area. A lighter softer layer of product will sit better and give enough coverage. A heavier oil-absorbing, matte foundation will also instantly look super heavy and cakey on a dry, dehydrated skin.”

TOP TIP: “The second makeup becomes a chore and not a moment of enhancing wellness you need to re-evaluate at your routine and products.” - Aidan Corcoran, Brown Thomas Beauty Stylist.

STEP 6: USE THE RIGHT TOOLS

“The tools you use are very important,” says Aidan. “I love the Charlotte Tilbury Powder and Sculpt Brush for powder-based products. It hugs the cheeks perfectly making the application so effortless. But the ultimate foundation brush has to be the Bobbi Brown Full Coverage Face Brush, it does all the work for you!”

Still need some help? Why not visit Aidan and Elena in-store at Brown Thomas Grafton Street? Our beauty style team are always on hand to assist with any beauty-related queries. From skincare advice and makeup tips and tricks to the best product recommendations for you, book your appointment today.

STEP 7: SHOP AIDAN & ELENA’S FAVOURITE FOUNDATIONS

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