- Prep your skin well. Before applying any makeup, it is important to cleanse, tone, and moisturize your skin. This will help to remove any dirt, oil, or impurities that can interfere with the application and performance of your makeup. It will also help to hydrate your skin and create a smooth canvas for your foundation. For dry skin, use a moisturizer that contains hyaluronic acid or glycerin, which can attract and retain moisture in your skin. For oily skin, use a lightweight gel or lotion that can balance your oil production and mattify your skin.
- Choose the right primer. A primer is a product that you apply before your foundation to help it adhere better and last longer. However, not all primers are compatible with water-based foundations. You should avoid primers that contain silicone or oil, as they can create a barrier between your skin and your foundation, causing it to slide off or separate. Instead, opt for a water-based primer that can enhance the hydration and luminosity of your skin. Some examples of water-based primers are Giorgio Armani Beauty Luminous Silk Hydrating Primer¹ and Dermablend Insta-Grip Jelly Makeup Primer².
- Apply your foundation with the right tool. Water-based foundations come in different forms, such as liquid, cream, stick, or cushion. Depending on the form and the coverage you want, you can use different tools to apply your foundation. For liquid foundations, you can use a damp sponge, a synthetic brush, or your fingers. A sponge can give you a sheer to medium coverage with a dewy finish, while a brush can give you more coverage and precision. Your fingers can also help to warm up the product and blend it into your skin. For cream or stick foundations, you can use a brush or your fingers to buff the product into your skin. For cushion foundations, you can use the applicator that comes with the product or a sponge to tap the product onto your skin.
- Set your foundation with a light powder. Water-based foundations tend to have a natural or dewy finish that can make your skin look healthy and radiant. However, if you have oily skin or live in a humid climate, you may want to set your foundation with a light powder to prevent it from melting or transferring throughout the day. You should avoid using heavy or mattifying powders that can make your foundation look cakey or dull. Instead, use a translucent or luminous powder that can lock in your foundation without compromising its glow. You can also use a setting spray to add some extra hydration and longevity to your makeup.
- Use water-based products for the rest of your makeup. To ensure that your makeup looks cohesive and harmonious, you should use water-based products for the rest of your face as well. This means using water-based concealers, blushes, bronzers, highlighters, eyeshadows, and lipsticks. Water-based products can blend well with each other and create a seamless finish. They can also add more hydration and radiance to your skin. Some examples of water-based makeup products are Too Faced Born This Way Foundation³, MAC Studio Fix Fluid, Clinique Even Better Makeup, Glossier Cloud Paint, Milk Makeup Lip + Cheek, and Stila Glitter & Glow Liquid Eye Shadow.
Water-based makeup is a great option for anyone who wants to achieve a dewy, natural, and flawless look. By following these tips, you can use water-based makeup effectively and enjoy its benefits for your skin.
Source:
(1) 2023 Best Water Based Foundations Guide (Usage Tips, Brands, FAQ). https://www.foundationfairy.com/guide-choosing-water-based-foundation/.
(2) 14 Best Water-Based Foundations For Dry & Oily Skin in 2023 – Skincare.com. https://www.skincare.com/product-picks/makeup/best-water-based-foundations.
(3) 12 Water-Based Makeup Products That Give You Dewy Skin – Who What Wear. https://www.whowhatwear.com/water-based-makeup.