Foundation

Foundation, as the name suggests, is the base layer for any facial make-up. The product is generally available in liquid, gel, solid cream, stick, pancakes and powder form and is selected as per the skin colour ranging from dark to light. Emulsions are foundations packed in tube and are formulated for dry skin, oily skin and normal skin. Emulsions have lesser sheen than liquid foundation. Cream foundations are packaged in jars and contain a high proportion of oil. Being suitable for dry skin, they impart a heavy mask with glossy look. Liquid foundations are more popular as they are formulated for all skin types and give a light sheen to the skin; these however do not cover scars well. Gel foundations are available in tubes, particularly used for normal skin and give a normal look.

Powder foundations are designed to cover the full face to control additional sheen. These are mostly used by people with oily skin. Often used after any of the other foundation, they impart a matt look. These are different from cake or compact powders, and are mostly used for touch-ups.

Foundations are often accompanied by a sponge with which it is applied and a concealer. The product is specifically made to hide unevenness and marks on the skin, to make it look flawless. It also camouflages under-eye circles or lightens a dark skin. A moisturiser or a sunscreen is applied before the foundation so to help it smoothly blend with the skin. Foundations are chosen as per the skin type, age and condition of the skin as well as colour of the skin.