Tag: foundation

Foundation Brushes

Since I largely use tinted moisturizer, I really should call these “moisturizer brushes” but either way, they are my favorite tool for blending any color on my face.  Over the years, I have tried great (and not so great) brushes and most are still in my collection – a testimony to how long these tools will last.

Armani Beauty Designer Foundation Brush

The fibers are shorter than other foundation brushes, which gives great control but can hinder blending.  I especially like the sharper end to get into the areas around my nose, under eyes and chin. The brush contains a blend of fibers which is typical for foundation brushes. The effect of this brush is a heavier coverage with ability to add precision. Overall this is a great brush that will last a long time. ($51)

Bobbi Brown Foundation Brush

The longer brush by Bobbi Brown won’t provide precise lines, but blends tinted moisturizer flawlessly.  The color almost buffs into the skin achieving Bobbi Brown’s signature “your own skin” look.  It also gives foundation a more moderate coverage.  I am sure the lighter bristles on the end have another purpose, but it provides encouragement for frequently cleaning because pigment is readily visible. ($35)

As a fan of foundation brushes, I think these two offer the best of what is out there.  If you are one who favors a heavier coverage, Armani is the way to go.  For those who like a tinted look, try Bobbi Brown.

CHANEL Vitalumière Aqua Foundation

Second skin, easy application and ultra-fine are its buzz words. I think it lives up to the hype. After applying a thin coat, my face looked very fresh, even and brighter. An added bonus is that the formula contains mineral sunscreen, which my dermatologist recommends.  I really didn’t notice any fragrance which is what I generally prefer for foundation.  There is no moisturizing qualities and the finish is basically matte, so I would recommend a good moisturizer before application. If you are after a more dewy look, this probably isn’t for you.

L’Oreal Serum Absolute Advanced Age-Reversing Makeup

I’m on a drugstore makeup kick.  The next few posts will feature some of my recent finds at CVS.  After seeing digital pictures of myself playing in Napa this weekend, I decided my tinted moisturizer is sometimes not quite enough coverage. Because I had read about the beneficial ingredients in this foundation, it was at the top of my list.  The formula includes SPF 17, pro-retinol A and vitamin C.  Coverage is medium and smooth.  The finish is matte, so a cream blush would add a nice luminosity.  The coverage stayed all day with a great natural look. 

Maybelline Fit Me Foundation

Why, why, why! did it take me so long to pick this foundation up?  I was definitely intimidated that I would select the wrong shade, but when I visited CVS, I found handy testers.  After visiting the mirror aisle, I was sold on #115 (Ivory).  Good thing for the testers because I would have purchased #110 (Porcelain) had I not had the opportunity to try shades.  Because I was sans makeup (in my defense, it was 8AM), I put the makeup on in my car.  My skin is super sensitive right now due to starting a retinol treatment, but this did not irritate my skin at all.  The coverage is really good – but do not confuse this with heaviness.  The makeup is actually really light.  How did they do that?  Six hours later, coverage is still looking great.  I see what all the hype was about.  Don’t hesitate picking this up next time you are at the drugstore.

L’Oreal Paris Studio Secrets Professional Magic Smooth Souffle Makeup

I am so lazy when matching colors.  So I shy away from drugstore brands.  I still haven’t figured out the right shade for the hot, new Maybelline FIT.  But I did happen to find the right shade in this Souffle and I was smitten with the texture.  I thought it would be perfect to use with the L’Oreal Magic Perfecting Base, previously and positively reviewed.  While the color worked well with my Fair-Medium skin, there was a greyish cast to my face.  There wasn’t the luminosity I have enjoyed with so many other products.  For a matte look, this could work, but cheek color would have to be employed.

Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer

I am reticent to add another step – you all know I prefer laziness simplicity.  But I found a lot of value in applying this before foundation or under eye concealer. This silky formula has vitamins and antioxidants and isn’t greasy.  The most impact, I found, was in filling pores for a smooth finish.  My foundation went on evenly and had a more consistent finish.  I can’t speak for inhibiting the destruction of collagen, but the overall effect was a more youthful and smooth appearance to the skin. It was especially helpful under my eyes – I was able to eliminate the cakey look to my La Mer concealer. I used the original formula, but it also comes in:

1 oz Original in a Tube (colorless)
1 oz Original (colorless)
2 oz Original (colorless)
1 oz Light (colorless)
2 oz Light (colorless)
1 oz SPF 15 with Dermaxyl Complex        
1 oz SPF 15 with Dermaxyl Complex (sheer apricot – dries clear)
1 oz Color Adjust (green – minimizes redness)
1 oz Color Balance (lavender – for natural yellow skintones)
1 oz Color Blend (apricot – conceals under eye circles, veins, sunspots)
1 oz Bronzing Primer (sheer tan)
1 oz Luminizing (sheer luminous gold)