My skin condition is combination skin with a slightly oily T-zone and at times dry on the cheeks. Proper diet, exercise and skin care regime are essential to good skin.

With that said, I can’t deny that the application of a foundation is the key to a smooth, glowing skin tone. I would usually opt for a light cream base and balm, rather than thick liquid foundation.

Anyway, here is a picture of my favourite makeup bases. I use them interchangeably with a couple more often than others. So far, these products did not give me breakouts or clog my skin. Those who did, however, were quickly discarded or given away.

Favourite makeup bases

1. Make Up Store Base Prep review

Rich in vitamins and antioxidants, it gives the skin a radiant and mild pearly complexion.

Make Up Store Base Prep

So one day, I found myself at the Make Up Store in Paragon (Singapore), actually I was shopping for a lipstick when the salesgirl persuaded me to grab this base. I was initially hesitant since I’ve never tried their range before. But there was an offer going on, so I grabbed a tub. It is close to a pearl cream but thinner.

Make Up Store Base Prep on my skin

As you can see, it glides well on my skin. Rubbing it evenly will give the skin a glow-like effect. I use this for special events because  it doesn’t come with SPF for daily usage.

2. Kameria Baby Face Anti-acne & Pore tightening BB Cream review

Do not be deceived by its small packaging. This small tube of 5g packs a punch. As you can see below, I have squeezed the tube almost dry. My favourite BB Cream for now.

Kameria Baby Face BB Cream

I was looking for a BB Cream at Watson’s and wanted something to test first, since I had a horrible experience with one particular cream that clogged my pores. This small tube was going for $5, and I thought why not. Made in Korea, this particular cream is suited for anti-acne and pore tightening.

Kameria Baby Face BB Cream on my skin

The colour is slightly lighter than my skin but it is smooth and blends well on the skin. It covers redness on skin, and the best part is my skin doesn’t feel oily the whole day. Highly recommended.

3. Estee Lauder CyberWhite Brilliant Cells Extra Intensive BB Creme review

I use Estee Lauder cleanser and serums regularly, it was only a matter of time before I try their BB Creme.

Estee Lauder CyberWhite Brilliant Cells BB Creme

It has a thin cream texture that evens out well on my skin. Doesn’t clog, but I feel like I need to put on more powder to get my makeup to stay on my face.

Estee Lauder CyberWhite Brilliant Cells BB Creme on my skin

A decent product, only use when I run out of Kameria Baby Face.

4. MAC Mineralize Satinfinish SPF 15 Foundation review

Since I don’t wear foundation on a daily basis, I keep one for special occasions.

MAC Mineralize Satinfinish Foundation

The pump bottle doesn’t allow me to control the amount of product that comes out, but it is more hygienic that way I guess.

MAC foundation on my skin

Spreading out the foundation gives my skin a bronze-like tint.

Evened out MAC foundation

A trusted foundation, gives my skin the added glow.

5. Chanel Base Hydrante Lissante Radiance Moisturizing Base review

This is my current favorite base, used daily.

Chanel Base Hydratante Lissante Age-defying Radiance Moisturizing Base

I am developing a certain affinity towards Chanel skincare line. This base is cream-like and blends into the skin. It gives the skin a natural moisturizing effect, like an extra coat of moisturizer.

Chanel Age-defying Radiance Moisturizing Base on my skin

Easy to use, and it smells nice.

6. Clarins Beauty Flash Balm review

A beauty cult favourite, I bought this product out of curiosity. It has the same effects as pearl cream to me, except it is a light cream, like a gel.

Clarins Beauty Flash Balm

It seeps well into the skin and skin perks up quite a bit.

Clarins Beauty Flash Balm on my skin

My only gripe is that it doesn’t contain any SPF. So I use it as a base for foundation or top it up with UV cream.

So there you go, my favourite makeup bases!

Foundation makeup is the key to whether your makeup will look good or bad. The application of a foundation will help to smooth out your skin tone, conceal blemishes and give you a more healthy glow. Applying makeup without a foundation base can actually enhance unsightly skin problems, rather than conceal them. But before you head out to the store, here are some basic rules that should be followed when making your product selection.

How Do I Choose A Foundation Makeup Base?

First, you need to select the correct color for your skin tone. Often times, people choose foundations that are either too light – making them look pale and washed out – or too dark – which often leaves a line of makeup between the jaw and neck. Generally, you will look like you’re wearing a mask. The foundation color that you choose must blend in with your natural skin tone.

Also keep in mind that your skin tone color will change with the seasons. In the summer, you will most likely need a slightly darker foundation color, as your skin will tan somewhat (even if you don’t purposely suntan – you still need to go outside sometimes.) In the winter your skin will lighten again back to its original tone and you should use your natural base color foundation makeup.

Deciding Between Liquid and Powder Foundations

The next decision is to determine whether you would prefer powder foundation or liquid foundation makeup. This tends to be more personal choice, although there are pros and cons to both types.

Most women seem to prefer the liquid foundation base. It appears to be quicker and much easier to apply. As well, once blended into the skin, liquid foundation makeup appears more natural and lighter, giving the skin a smooth, even appearance. However, how it is applied can also make a difference. Applying too much will cause streaks and spots that look “heavier” then others on your skin. Using a makeup sponge rather than using a fingers can help a lot with creating a smooth, even appearance. Apply a small amount of liquid foundation at a time and blend in carefully.

Another advantage of a liquid foundation is that it absorbs into the skin rather than sitting on top of it, so you get a more natural skin tone appearance. It also comes in a variety of bases to suit women with dry skin, normal skin, oily skin, combination skin, and sensitive skin types.

Powder foundations are a less popular choice, but can work just as well as liquid foundation makeup. It’s easy to apply and there is less blending involved. They are also great for people that have very oily skin, as the powder will soak up the oil and prevent a greasy appearance. You can also carry a compact powder case with you on days when you need to do a slight touch up to your makeup or on days that are hot and humid, to rid your face of shine.

A slight problem with powders, however, is that they can  look like they are caked on your face if applied to heavily or after a couple of hours in warm weather. They also tend to rub off on clothes easier since the powder sits on top of your skin.

Another Choice: Liquid-Powder Foundations

Liquid-powder foundation combinations are another choice that is gaining in popularity. The foundation makeup comes in a compact, much like powder bases, but contains a somewhat creamy mixture. Application of this foundation gives a smooth appearance, like a liquid, with the absorption benefits of a powder. However, you have to be careful when applying this type of foundation, since a heavy hand will give you a caked appearance. Like liquids, the key is to apply it lightly and blend well. This combination is not the best for people with dry skin as it will also give you a patchy skin appearance. Choose this type of product if you have normal to oily skin.

If this is the first time you are going to buy a foundation, you should visit a make-up counter that allows you to try out the various products or seek out a professional make-up artist to help you with your selection. For those that have problem skin, such as severe acne breakouts, you should visit a dermatologist first. They can help you with making a wiser choice on the type of foundation makeup would work best, plus provide you with other skin care options to help clear up underlying problems.

Remember, the best makeup techniques start with a good foundation that is appropriate for your skin type and skin tone. Be smart and take the time to research what is out there before spending money on any product. You’ll be happy you did.

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