Here’s How to Use Stick Foundation Correctly, According to 4 Makeup Artists

Liquid foundations could also be the preferred method in the marketplace right now, however cream-based stick foundations are one of many oldest types of the complexion staple, and a make-up artist favourite. As extra new launches on this class proceed to hit the make-up scene, we wish to be sure we all know the right method to apply them—it’s not at all times as straightforward as “swipe and go.” Here’s what 4 high make-up artists have to say.
How do stick basis formulation differ from liquids?
According to celeb make-up artist D’Andre Michael, stick basis formulation are merely cake foundations packaged into cylinder tubes. “They’re thicker than liquid basis, so that they’re excellent for these in search of to obtain medium-to-full protection.” Liquids are extra fluid and may be blended and buffed to look extra sheer for individuals who need much less protection. “They’re additionally a bit extra hydrating and are higher for these with dry pores and skin,” says Mally Roncal, make-up artist and founding father of Mally Beauty. “Stick foundations are finest for normal-to-combination pores and skin. I really like them as a result of they’re travel-friendly, they’ve buildable protection that’s straightforward to mix, they usually’re versatile, which busy mothers like me can admire.”
What is one of the simplest ways to apply a stick basis?
“First and foremost, one ought to solely apply a basis stick to the areas the place they want it,” says Roncal. “Oftentimes individuals suppose they want to apply their basis fully throughout their face, like wall-to-wall carpeting, however this isn’t really the case! I might recommend to solely apply stick foundations to the areas of the face that want that additional protection, they usually’re nice as a result of you may at all times construct up the product.”
For lighter protection, celeb make-up artist Jamie Greenberg recommends dipping a brush—she likes the Pinnacle Foundation Brush from Anisa ($30)—onto the stick basis—her “absolute favourite” is Younique Touch Stick Foundation ($42)—after which brushing it onto the face. “Start towards the center of the face and work your method up and out,” says Roncal.
Marc Reagan, world director of training, artistry and occasions for Hourglass Cosmetics, swears by Hourglass’s Vanish Foundation Stick ($46), and says the best method to apply it’s to dot it in your pores and skin straight from the tube (Greenberg says this system is usually finest for medium-to-heavy protection). “Focus on the place you want it, after which mix it in with a dense brush, like our Vanish Seamless Finish Foundation Brush ($46), utilizing round motions,” he explains. “The proper brush will distribute the product evenly and effortlessly whereas hiding imperfections and creating an excellent end. If you want extra protection, dot extra product on and mix that layer in with the identical brush.” Another good brush possibility is Michael’s private favourite: Sephora Collection PRO Foundation Brush #55 ($30).
However, there are at all times hygiene considerations when making use of a product from the tube immediately to the pores and skin, particularly in case your pores and skin isn’t clear. “In my knowledgeable opinion, stick foundations have the power to gather micro organism in the event that they’re utilized immediately to the pores and skin, so I counsel utilizing a clear make-up brush to dab onto the stick basis, after which apply to the pores and skin and mix,” says Michael. Many make-up execs are additionally a fan of utilizing a beautyblender ($20)—Michael and Greenberg included—to mix stick basis into the pores and skin, and it may be particularly useful whenever you’ve used an excessive amount of product and in addition need to take away a bit with out messing up your look.
Can you additionally use stick basis as concealer and a contour product?
Absolutely. “They also can double as concealer and work effectively to goal particular imperfections due to their thicker consistency,” says Roncal, whose Mally Beauty line provides a two-in-one Quick Fix Foundation & Concealer Stick ($30). Greenberg at all times tells individuals to get three colours of their favourite stick basis: gentle, medium and darkish for his or her private pores and skin tone. “That method you may contour with the darkest shade, in addition to change the shade if you happen to want, relying in your coloring through the seasons,” she explains. If you’re utilizing a basis stick as concealer, go for the lightest of the three shades. Reagan additionally recommends switching your brush to a concealer brush, which can allow you to stipple the product over the goal space to extra exactly cowl it.
Do you select your shade the identical method you’d liquid if sticks are extra concentrated?
Roncal says the shade-matching course of may be extra literal with stick foundations as a result of they’re thicker and fewer versatile. “To choose the precise shade in your pores and skin tone, I at all times recommend matching your stick basis shade to your collarbone, not your face. This method makes positive that your face, neck and physique will all be the identical shade.”

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