Foundation: What's the Big Idea?

Foundation is the one product that I have struggled with for years.  I couldn't figure out if it was a necessary product or not and most of the time didn't use it.  It seemed like no matter who I asked, I never got a straight answer about it.

"Only use foundation for your trouble areas."
"Only use foundation for a more glam look."
"Only use foundation if your skin is bad."
"Foundation is the first step in your beauty routine."
"Foundation makes you look like you are wearing too much makeup."
"Use foundation in combination with powder."
"Don't use foundation if you use powder."

Well?  What is it here?  What is the big idea with foundation?  You can see why I was so confused!

In my years of trying different looks and ways to use makeup, this is what I have recently discovered:

Foundation, when used correctly, is the anchor for the rest of your face makeup.  It's like doing your makeup with no lotion on your face - it takes way more product and doesn't stay on at all.  If you use any sort of powder or bronzer, foundation is your "lotion" to hold it on.  I truly have become a big believer in it!  It makes a world of difference for the rest of your products.  If you have great skin and don't need the extra coverage, then get a really sheer foundation.  You really don't need that much, especially if you apply it with a brush, so it won't make you look anymore "done up" but it makes such a difference!  It will also save you on products: when you have the appropriate products, you ultimately need less of them.  Having foundation on will require less powder than if you didn't have it on.

If you don't believe me about foundation (I didn't believe it for the longest time!) then try this:

The Foundation Challenge:
Wear foundation under your powder (still with lotion on your face) for a few days in a row, then try wearing your makeup without it and be amazed at the difference.

For a nice, sheer foundation, try Stila Illuminating BB Cream from Sephora

 or the MAC mineralize liquid foundation. (Works best for dry skin)

I have also heard great things about the Maybelline Fit Me foundation (drugstore)

and the Revlon Colorstay line (also drugstore). (For Oily/Combo skin)

I hope this helps clear up some of the confusion with foundation because it honestly is a great product! Let me know how it goes for you guys.

XOXO

Joy