How do you use a stick foundation?

Prep Your Skin

Before applying any makeup, it's important to start with a clean and moisturized face. Begin by washing your face with a gentle cleanser suitable for your skin type and then follow up with a moisturizer to ensure your skin is hydrated and ready for makeup application.

Next, apply a primer to create a smooth canvas for your foundation. Primers also help the foundation last longer and prevent it from settling into fine lines and pores.

If you have any concerns with discoloration, redness, or blemishes, consider using a color-correcting concealer to target those areas before applying foundation. This will give you a more even and flawless look.

Finally, let your primer and concealer set for a few minutes before moving on to the next step.

Choose the Right Shade

The key to achieving a flawless look with stick foundation is choosing a shade that matches your skin tone perfectly.

If you're not sure which shade to choose, swatch a few shades on your jawline and neck using a clean brush or sponge. The shade that disappears into your skin is the one that matches the closest.

Keep in mind that stick foundations tend to have a higher coverage than liquid foundations. If you prefer a more natural look, consider choosing a shade that is a bit lighter than your skin tone and blending it out with a damp sponge.

Alternatively, if you're going for a more dramatic look, you can use a darker shade to contour and sculpt your face.

Remember to check the shade in natural light to ensure it matches your skin tone and to avoid any harsh lines or visible demarcations.

Apply on the Face

When it comes to application, there are a few techniques you can use to achieve the desired finish.

Fingertips: This is the most common way of applying stick foundation. Start by applying the foundation directly to the areas of your face that need coverage and blend it out with your fingertips using circular motions. You can build up the coverage by adding more layers.
Brush: If you prefer using a brush, choose a dense, synthetic brush to apply and blend the foundation. Start by applying the foundation to your face, focusing on the t-zone, cheeks, and other areas that need coverage. Then use the brush to blend it out until you achieve an even and smooth finish.
Sponge: A damp sponge is a great tool for achieving a natural and flawless finish. Apply the foundation directly to your face and blend it out with a damp sponge by bouncing it gently over your skin. You can also use the sponge to blend out any harsh lines or edges.

Whichever technique you choose, remember to blend out the foundation along your hairline, jawline, and neck to achieve a seamless and natural finish.

Lastly, set your foundation with a setting powder or spray to ensure it lasts all day.

Section 1: Blend with a Brush

A stick foundation is a versatile and convenient makeup product that comes in a solid stick form, making it easy to apply and blend onto the skin. One of the best ways to use a stick foundation is to blend it with a brush. A foundation brush is specially designed for the application of foundation on the skin, and it helps to achieve a flawless and even finish.

Start by applying the foundation directly onto your skin in the areas you desire coverage. Next, use a foundation brush to blend the product into your skin in circular motions, starting from the center of your face and working outward. This technique creates a natural, airbrushed look that is perfect for everyday wear.

When blending with a brush, be sure to use gentle pressure and avoid dragging or pulling the skin. Also, don't forget to blend the product into your hairline and neck to avoid any harsh lines or unevenness.

Apply foundation directly onto skin in desired areas
Use a foundation brush to blend product into skin in circular motions
Start from center of face and work outward
Use gentle pressure and avoid dragging or pulling skin
Blend into hairline and neck to avoid harsh lines or unevenness

Section 2: Build Up Coverage

One of the benefits of using a stick foundation is that it offers buildable coverage. This means you can add layers of product to achieve the desired coverage level, whether you want a natural, sheer coverage or a full-coverage look.

To build up your coverage, simply apply a thin layer of foundation to your skin first and then gradually layer on more product until you achieve the desired coverage. You can add product to any areas that need more coverage, such as blemishes or dark circles under your eyes.

It's important to blend each layer of foundation well to avoid any cakiness or unevenness. You can blend each layer with a brush or a beauty sponge for an even, flawless finish.

Apply a thin layer of foundation to skin
Gradually layer on more product until desired coverage is achieved
Add product to areas that need more coverage
Blend each layer well to avoid cakiness or unevenness

Section 3: Layer with Other Products

A stick foundation can be used alone or in combination with other products for a variety of makeup looks. For example, you can layer it with a concealer for extra coverage on specific areas, such as blemishes or under-eye circles.

You can also use a stick foundation as a base for other makeup products, such as blush, bronzer, or highlighter. Apply foundation to your skin first, and then layer on the other products for a seamless, blended finish.

If you prefer a dewy look, try mixing a small amount of liquid highlighter or facial oil with your stick foundation before applying it to your skin. This creates a luminous, radiant finish that is perfect for a summery, beachy look.

Layer foundation with concealer for extra coverage
Use foundation as base for blush, bronzer, or highlighter
Mix liquid highlighter or facial oil with foundation for a dewy look

Section 4: Set the Foundation

After applying your stick foundation, it's important to set it to help it last longer and prevent any smudging or rubbing off throughout the day. There are several ways to set your foundation, depending on your skin type and preferences.

If you have oily skin, you may prefer to use a mattifying powder to set your foundation and control shine throughout the day. Apply the powder with a fluffy powder brush, focusing on the areas that tend to get oily, such as your T-zone.

If you have dry skin, you may prefer to use a setting spray to set your foundation and add a boost of hydration to your skin. Simply spritz the product onto your face after applying your foundation and other makeup, and allow it to dry for a few seconds.

Another option for setting your foundation is to use a translucent powder. This is a great option for all skin types and helps to set the foundation without altering the color or finish of your makeup. Apply the powder with a powder brush or beauty sponge, focusing on areas that tend to get oily or where you want extra staying power.