Prep Your Client’s Skin Flawlessly

While every MUA has the common goal of creating flawless make-up looks for the client, the outcome is dependent on understanding the client’s skin and a perfect choice of the kind of make-up used. As make-up artists focus is on creating something new every time, and for that, it’s important to have a wide range of products and, good technical knowledge and strong techniques to get that look perfect.

StyleSpeak dives into the A to Z of foundations –from different types available, methods of application, special techniques that could help you etc. With experts in the industry offering exclusive tips, you couldn’t ask for more!

Foundation and Coverage

Foundation is exactly what its name suggests. It is a base, a canvas on which you build your makeup-up. Foundations are specially formulated or differentiated by the level of skin coverage needed and the shade needed to match different skin tones. Accordingly a single brand may offer hundreds of options to suit every skin type, tone and occasion.

Here are the different types of coverages you must keep in mind based on what your client needs and the look your client desires.

Sheer Coverage Foundation (less than 5% pigment): This foundation does not hide discoloration on the skin. However, it balances the contrast between the discoloration and the rest of the skin tone bringing an even look to the skin.
Light Coverage Foundation (5-10% pigment): Covers uneven skin tone but is not opaque enough to cover freckles.
Medium Coverage Foundation (10-15% pigment): Covers freckles, discolorations, and red marks to some extent.
Full Coverage Foundation (over15% pigment): This is opaque in nature and can cover birthmarks, vitiligo, hyperpigmentation and scars.

Foundations are also available in different types of formulations such as oil-based, gel-based, water-based, cream-based and powder-based foundations. Choosing the right foundation depends on what your client’s requirement is and mainly what suits their skin.

Liquid Foundation

• Mostly medium to full coverage
• Hydrates the skin

Serum Foundation

• Easy to buff and blend
• Comes with skin health benefits

Tinted Oil Foundation

• Works very well for those with dry skin
• Evens the skin tone and also gives a highlighting effect

Cream Foundation

• Gives good coverage for dry and mature skin
• Hydrates the skin

Whipped Mousse Foundation

• Prevents clogging of pores
• Leaves a matte finish
• Airy and light weight

Stick Foundation

• Can be used as a concealer
• Provides buildable coverage
• Mess-free

Powder Foundation

• Easy application
• Light weight
• Soaks up excess oil on the skin
• Mineral based and works well for sensitive skin

Creating Flawless Looks with Foundation

While there’s an array of make-up styles today, it all depends on the occasion and the look your client is looking for something. According to Jasleen Kaur, hair and make-up artist at Makeovers by Manveen, prepping the skin is the most important aspect in creating flawless make-up looks. “Knowing your client’s skin type is the most important thing before using any product on their skin. The second most important thing is to prep the skin by cleansing, toning and moisturising before getting on to create the look.”

Indian skin tones usually have yellow and warm undertones. It is important to do a patch test before choosing the right match for your client. The best full coverage and long wearing foundations for Indian skin tones are MAC, NARS, Milani, Huda Beauty, and Estee Lauder. “Beauty is power, and make-up enhances it,” adds Jasleen.

According to Sonic Sarwate, Global Senior Artist MAC, it is very important how you prep the client’s face when it comes to a good foundation base. “For people with oily skin, make sure you use a primer that will keep the skin oils balanced and then use a water-based foundation that’s long wearing and gives a matte finish. You can also use essential oils to give an extra boost while hydrating the skin.”

The Steps

1. Clean and hydrate the skin
2. Use a primer – it protects the skin and creates a canvas for flawless foundation application
3. Apply eye make-up before foundation
4. Coat the lashes with a primer
5. Apply a lip scrub
6. Define the lip shape
7. Blot and set the lip colour
8. Conceal the hyperpigmented areas on the skin
9. Dab the foundation with a beauty blender evenly on the face and neck
10. Contour and enhance your client’s features with a vibrant blush and highlighting palette
11. Set the make-up with a setting spray
12. Carry a well-equipped touch-up kit