What's Skin Type and Does It Matter?

All great work starts with a strong foundation. When it comes to makeup, this is often the case. With countless different shades of foundation and numerous types of formulas, makeup rookies are bound to feel lost. Don't give up now! Here are fool-proof steps that can be taken to find your ideal foundation.

Determine your skin type.

Every person has unique facial skin that will react differently to certain makeup products. The best way to know which type of foundation will work best for your skin is to study your face. Your facial skin will fall under 1 or more of these 6 categories:

1. Oily - Your skin often feels greasy and appears shiny

2. Dry - Your skin feels tight and appears dry

3. Combination - Your skin is oily in some areas and dry in other areas of your face

4. Sensitive or "Acne-Prone" - Your skin becomes irritated by most skincare or makeup products and it appears red

5. Normal - You're one of the lucky ones, there are no apparent issues with your skin that relate to the first four categories

Select your foundation formula.

Numerous types of foundations exist in the market today. There is no limit as to what types you should try. My best advice is to experiment with different types until you find one that works well with your skin. There are, however, certain foundation types that are suited for specific skin types.

• Liquid foundation - This has a watery consistency and it can be used for minimal coverage or be built up with multiple layers to a fuller coverage (Full coverage = makeup covers blemishes, wrinkles, and other spots).

• Cream foundation - This consistency is similar to that of thick paint. It is excellent for dry skin because it often has moisturizing particles in it that will not settle into the dry cracks on your face.

• Powder foundation - This foundation is best suited for oily skin because it absorbs the oil on your face while evening any redness or discoloration on your face.

• Cushion foundation - This foundation seems daunting at first but is actually really fantastic for beginners. It is a compact container that holds a sponge that is saturated with foundation. You use it by pressing the sponge into the compact and then patting on your face. It can create really light to full coverage.

• Airbrush foundation - This is often used by makeup artists and by celebrities on the red carpet. Regardless of your skin type, airbrush makeup will create flawless and smooth looking skin.

• Stick Foundation - These foundations are great for combination skin. It is easy to blend out on your face and the makeup does not feel too heavy on the skin

Pick your skin tone.

Once you have selected what formula you will be using for your foundation, it is now time to choose from the range of foundation shades/colors the brand offers. To determine your skin shade, you can start by studying the color of your veins to figure out your undertone. Look at your wrist under a bright light and use your best judgment as to what color your veins appear.

Wix Images

• Blue/purple - You have a cool undertone - those with lighter skin most likely have pinkish hues, whereas darker skin appears to be a variation of cream or coffee color. When buying foundation stay away from anything that looks golden.

• Olive/green - You have a warm undertone - lighter skin has hues of peach and darker skin appears more golden or honey-colored. When buying foundation chose one with yellow or gold tones.

• Can't tell - neutral - It is not clearly cool or warm

Now comes the exciting part... buying a foundation!

Select your formula and shade then locate a brand that fits your price range. Now that you've learned the basics [ or foundation;) ] you have completed your Foundation Education!