The 7 Rules of Wearing Foundation in 2023 (So It Looks Like a Second Skin)

At its best, foundation can make your skin look more even-toned and smooth. At its worst, it can cause your face to look masklike and dry. Luckily, we have plenty of options that cater to our individual skin types and preferences.

In fact, some might say we have too many options to choose from, which can feel overwhelming when you're staring at rows and rows of foundations at Sephora. Fret not, we're here to help.

The first thing to consider is your skin type (is it dry, normal, oily or combination) and your desired coverage level (do you want the finish to be light, medium or full). Now look for those corresponding keywords on the labels.

Once you've narrowed things down to the formula that best meets those criteria, it's time to find your shade match. You can do this by picking up two to three shades that you think most closely match your skin color and swatching them along your jawline. Then, grab a mirror and head to your nearest window (or step outside for a second) to see which one disappears into your skin. Note: If you have freckles, match the shade to your overall skin and not the freckles themselves.

Now that you have your foundation selected, here are seven tried-and-true rules of wearing foundation—plus, the best products and techniques for getting the most seamless application ever.

In general, the fewer layers there are on your face, the better. However, if you have especially oily skin or need your makeup to last all day, say, for a special occasion, apply primer to the hotspots of your face only, like the forehead, nose and chin. Makeup primers are used to create a smooth, even base underneath your foundation (and anything else you apply on top like blush) so the application itself is easier and you get longer-lasting results.

Once you have your foundation ready, apply it from the center of your face, moving outwards. This way, you get the most coverage around the nose and mouth (where there tends to be more discoloration) and it gradually sheers out as it reaches the perimeter of your face (near the hairline and jawline).

A strategic application of highlighter just to the high planes of your face (i.e. your cheekbones and around your temples) will add the subtlest dimension to your features. As for the highlighter itself, most makeup artists we’ve worked with over the years tend to prefer a creamy or balmy highlighter over a liquid or powder formulas because they give off a more natural finish and you’re better able to control the application.