I was talking to some friends at breakfast this morning, and we got onto the topic of buying makeup. Anyone who knows me can tell you that I can seriously talk forever on the topic. Most times when this happens, I try to contain my nerdy excitement and just give them the short and sweet answer that they are looking for. In most cases, people just want to know what other people use so that they can try it for themselves...They ask, "So what do you use?" I thought that it would be the perfect topic for a blog entry. Soon after I began writing it, I realized that the topic would be better addressed if I did a series of posts about my daily makeup routine going step-by-step. So here goes...
Step 1. Tinted Moisturizer/Foundation
Now, when considering the choice between tinted moisturizer vs. foundation one has to consider two things: 1.) preference and 2.) purpose. I, personally, have no use for flawless, camera-ready skin when all I'm doing is going to work. So, I reach for tinted moisturizer most of the time.
Tarte Smooth Operator SPF 20

It is a tinted moisturizer so the coverage is pretty sheer, but it will even out minor skin discolorations. My feeling is that if your skin is clear for the most part, use the least amount of coverage you can. Showcase the beautiful skin you have. Then, invest in a really good concealer to cover those few not-so-great parts. This is better than caking on the foundation that everyone can see across the room. The only downside to this product is that it does not come in shades for deeper skin tones. I usually squeeze out around a dime-sized amount and start by applying it to the middle of my face, because that's where I need the most coverage. What I love the most about this tinted moisturizer is that it feels so smooth and velvety on your skin. It doesn't leave a strange tint to your skin or a greasy feeling. Your skin just looks healthy and hydrated. People with oily skin may not like it for its dewy look. You need to be careful with the shade selection though, because the numbering system they use doesn't always correspond to a lighter or darker shade. They have a mixture of shades for warmer or cooler skin tones. For example, in the summer, I use Agent 10, and in the winter, I use Agent 06. Agent 08 is too warm for my skin tone.
Now, let's say you need more coverage...
Make Up For Ever HD Invisible Cover Foundation

If you have a party or special event to go to, then you will want something with more coverage and no SPF. Why no SPF? Because the zinc oxide and titanium dioxide used to give these products their SPF value will cause a white cast on your skin with any flash photography. Therefore, forego anything with SPF, including mineral makeup, if there's any chance of you being photographed. The MUFE HD foundation will give you medium to full coverage. I am very particular about being able to see my foundation. When I do wear foundation, I don't want it to feel or look heavy on my skin. Foundation should look like gorgeous skin, and that's why I love this foundation. It offers serious coverage without broadcasting to the world that you are wearing anything. In terms of applying it, I use a foundation brush. Since foundation brushes can leave weird streaks with their stiff bristles, I use my fingers after the brush to make sure everything is blended. This foundation dries fast and leaves a demi-matte finish. It will work on most skin types. People with dry skin should moisturize appropriately before applying it. As for the shade range, it is extensive and you most likely will find one that will match your skin. I use shade #118 for reference.
NEXT: EYE PRIMER
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