Apply your foundation like a pro
Meet make-up artist Beno Lim (above). He has worked with US singer-songwriter Debbie Gibson, Chinese-American pop icon Fei Xiang and pop star Lady Gaga.
He has two decades of experience and is one of Asia's most in-demand make-up artists.
Here are his tips for working with liquid foundation.
MOISTURISE
When your skin is well hydrated, foundation will glide on more smoothly.
START SMALL
Shake your liquid foundation bottle well before use so that the pigments will be evenly distributed for a smooth finish.I like to use two drops first and then assess if I require more.
IMPERFECTIONS? JUST COVER THEM UP
Buff foundation onto skin to give your face that sheer look. Then press or tap the brush on the foundation again before reapplying it on areas that need more coverage.
LESS IS MORE
You don't have to apply foundation on your entire face.
To create a look that is natural and fresh - very modern and on-trend now - apply foundation only on areas that really need it, such as the centre of the face and under the eyes. Keep the rest sheer and natural.
Choosing the right liquid foundation can be a hit - or miss affair. Here are three lightweight formulas that give hefty coverage
LANCOME ABSOLUE SUBLIME REJUVENATING ESSENCE FOUNDATION
$138
The first thing that impressed me was the packaging - a luxurious frosted gold glass bottle that instantly classed up my make-up dresser.
Instead of trying the foundation on my face, I tested its coverage on my hand to see if it would cover the veins. It did.
When applying the foundation onto my skin with a brush, I noticed that it blends in quite naturally.
The manufacturer says this product contains ingredients from its super luxe Absolue skincare range - such as citrus essential oil and camellia oil - which help stimulate the skin's self-regeneration potential.
The foundation is available in six shades specially created for Asian women.
For me, it covered the pores on my nose, lightened my dark eye circles and gave my face a dewy finish. Love it.
Available at Lancome stores.
YSL LE TEINT ENCRE DE PEAU / FUSION INK FOUNDATION
$82
I love the soft matte finish that this foundation gives. It reminds me of the complexions that magazine cover models have. Yes, you too can achieve that.
Bonus: Even though it provides coverage, it feels light - so no clogged-up pores with this one.
The manufacturer, which describes this foundation as having an "ink-like texture", says it suits every skin type.
Removal with make-up wipes was quick, fuss-free and not messy at all - unlike most liquid foundations.
Definitely something all women should add to their stash for that special occasion.
Available at YSL stores.
MAC STUDIO WATERWEIGHT SPF30 FOUNDATION
$62
For such a light formula, this foundation provides surprisingly good coverage.
My favourite thing about it? It is thick enough to hide dark eye circles, fine lines and even scars without clogging your pores or making your face feel cakey.
It doesn't have an oily finish and leaves your face feeling silky smooth for about six to eight hours. I just wish it stayed on longer.
It is also easy to blend into your natural skin tone. The outcome? An effortless, bare-faced look. Not bad.
Available at MAC stores.
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