A couple of weeks ago, I pick up a great tip from a Clarins makeup trainer that I wanted to share with you. It was a bit of a “OMG Why didn’t I think of that?” moment for me and it will save us all a lot of time in the morning.
This tip is for those who use liquid foundation and especially useful for those who don’t use liquid foundation but want to learn the best way to use it so it does not look streaky nor too thick. I wish I’d learnt this earlier 😛
If you use liquid foundation, the best way to apply liquid foundation is like this.
- Pump the liquid foundation into the palm of your hand (1-2 pumps usually suffice depending on the formula).
- Using the other hand, spread the foundation between the palms of both hands
- Apply to face starting from the center outwards to the hairline
- Blend
Now wasn’t that easy? Ever since I picked it up, I’ve been trying it, and I can tell you it saves me so much time in the morning, I’m no longer liquid foundation averse!
There are other benefits I have found from using this method.
- The liquid foundation blends more quickly into my skin
- The warmth from my fingers helps the liquid foundation blend better and apply smoother on the skin
- Its faster and more convenient to apply
I have always used my hands to apply liquid foundation in the past but I never thought to use my whole palm. The only drawback I’ve found using fingers is that you’d have to wash your hands after you are done. I usually wipe off on a piece of tissue paper, do the rest of my makeup and then wash my hands before leaving for work.
What if you don’t want to use your palm or are used to using your fingers? Then, try to use your 3rd and 4th finger to apply and use the whole finger, not just the finger tips.
Using just the fingertips to apply foundation can cause it to be patchy and will take you ages. Using the whole finger, you cover a wider area more quickly and it blends better.
If you prefer to use brushes or sponges, go right ahead 🙂 I just prefer to use my hands or fingers to do my makeup and this was a Eureka moment for me.
I hope this tips helps you too! If you decide to try it, or already apply your liquid foundation this way, do share your thoughts! 😀
UPDATE: If you want to use a brush to apply foundation, this is the best and most effective tip I’ve picked up and you get a picture tutorial too! 🙂
Paris B
Note: Based on comments, some people have mentioned that this method is wasteful because you use more foundation. Actually, its not. You use the exact same amount as you would otherwise. So, if you always use 1 pump or even 1/2 pump of liquid foundation, go right ahead. I mentioned 1-2 pumps because some formula are thicker than others and pump out less but different brands and different pumps operate differently. You can see my usual amount used in the 1st picture – its very little. I actually found myself using less because I like a lighter sheer look which this method gives me. But if you do find yourself using more foundation than usual do feel free to share your thoughts 🙂
Note #2: You can try this other method too for a lighter sheerer coverage
MrsRance says
hi Paris,
I’ve been using my finger tips and it works. But now i will try with the palms or the 3rd and 4th fingers. Thanks for the tips 😉
Jean says
I k=normally use fingers to apply, but i think using whole palm is a really good way as the temperature definitely gonna help the foundation to stay on the face!
Good post! thanks for sharing!
Liz says
Hello, i saw ur technique. i guess i will try it, but maybe during weekends when i have muchhh more time so in case i dont like it, i can always fix it. 🙂 currently i just switched from fingers to sponge. i like the flawless look i get after using the sponge.yes, sponge is wasting my foundation and my time too..especially on days that im late for work! yikes.
okay, now, back to ur technique, doesnt putting it on that way gives it only a light coverage? i would like atleast medium coverage. and, aren’t you stretching your skin a lil bit more when u do that?
anyway, its great that ur sharing all these stuffs that women like us need.. 🙂
ParisB says
Yes it gives a sheer application which is what I prefer. For more coverage, apply another layer or use a foundation with more coverage. And no you are not pulling on your skin – its the same technique as that of applying moisturizer.
Eileen says
Sounds like a great tip, and WHY DIDN’T I EVER THINK OF THAT TOO?
Will be sure to try it out tomorrow! I’m always in a rush in the mornings and therefore very lazy to use liquid foundations because of that 😛
Louise says
Thank you sooooooooo much for sharing this tip!
It’s OMG so useful!
I spent like 15 SECONDS!!! in applying foundation to my whole face using this technique. This is like MAGIC!!!
Thank you! Thank you! THANK YOU!!!
rav says
I usually do as u said…bt it spoils my consealer…and my blemishes are no more covered…plz suggest vat to do
Paris B says
Try reading this tip to apply concealer AFTER foundation instead.
Francheska says
I always use my hands and today I was wondering if I was right. Yes! I was right! I was about to buy a foundation brush till I discover this blog. I confirm that the finish is very natural if you apply little amount. By example, I apply little foundation spots in each cheeks and forehead. I tend to avoid the nose because my nose is always dry.
Bye! ^_^
Priscilla says
Awesome tip! I tried it today and the results was amazing! Sheer, even application, plus extra easy. I use one pump of foundation, which is my usual amount, but this application technique gives a sheerer, more even and natural result. My husband said he could see the difference and likes it a lot. I was planning to buy a Hakuhodo foundation brush but now I can save my money for something else. Thanks for sharing this tip!!
Filiz says
I’ve also discovered this!!! (I know, I’m too late!!)