Foundations help your skin in numerous ways. It preps your skin to receive makeup, conceals wrinkles and flaws and protects your skin from dust and pollution.

Today's foundations have come a long way and most are packed with added benefits such as vitamins, moisturizers and sun protection. But how do you know what type of foundation is best for you?

To find the right kind of foundation that best suits your skin, always remember to note your skin type and its needs (sun protection, coverage for fine lines, moisture, etc.). Then test a bit of the product you intend to purchase by dabbing a small amount on your jawline. Check this dab under natural light and see if it blends with the rest of your face. Also, take note of the expiration date, as many foundations cease to work efficiently two years after they've been opened.

Below are the common forms of foundation to help you make the right choice.

Sheer foundation is a popular choice for day use because it allows your natural skin color to shine through and provides the lightest coverage. People who live in warm climates choose sheer foundations for their non-sticky feel and easy wearability. If you already have great skin or if you are in your teens, this is the best foundation choice for you.

Liquid foundation, depending on the formula, can produce a range of looks. Many women usually choose liquid foundation because it is easy to apply and is highly wearable for hours on end. There are many enriched liquid foundations on the market now that provide vitamins, sunscreen and moisturizer for your face as well.

Compact foundations come in powder form but feels and looks like liquid foundation once used on the skin. This is a top choice for women who don't have much time for makeup because it achieves a smooth look while being handy enough to carry around for touch-ups. You can also control the foundation's degree of heaviness because you can customize the amount of powder on your face to get the desired coverage. For a sheer daytime look, compact foundations are best applied with a dry sponge; for a dramatic nighttime look, use the foundation with a wet sponge.

Matte foundation gives skin a flat, no-shine look that's perfect for nights out. It works for all skin types. Illuminating foundation is the opposite of matte foundation. This gives light coverage and adds a subtle glow to the face. Illuminants are usually made with shiny mineral bits, oils, or pearl powder for a shimmery effect.

Tinted moisturizers give a healthy glow to the skin and provide light coverage. They are primarily colored moisturizers and work like liquid foundation. Most tinted moisturizers have sun protection and are best worn during the day. Stick foundation combine foundation with concealer. They are easy to use and great for touch-ups. Because it's heavier than powder and are usually sticky, it can be a little difficult to apply and blend.

Primers are "foundation before foundation". These are colorless products applied to the face to better prepare it for liquid foundation. When worn alone, it minimizes pores and evens out skin tone. These are used by many top makeup artists to achieve a very flawless look.

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