6 easy ways to apply foundation

Using as little foundation as possible to achieve the most sophisticated look is an effective method for every French woman. Violette Serra, professional makeup artist and creative director of Estée Lauder, shared a couple of secrets with British Vogue.

Choose a foundation that matches your skin

Every French woman chooses a light foundation that absorbs into the skin and makes it glow. "You want to feel like you're using a skin care product," Violette says. "You want something silky, like Estée Lauder Futurist Hydra Rescue Moisturizing Makeup SPF 45." Both Kevyn Aucoin Stripped Nude Skin Tint and Benefit Hello Happy Flawless Liquid Foundation can help keep your skin feeling good.

Strive for an inconspicuous finish

Foundation should be applied only to those areas of the skin where hyperpigmentation, redness or spots could occur. “There is no need to apply foundation to the entire face area, as healthy areas of skin may be present," says Violette Serra. However, if you still want to cover your entire face with cream, then it is best to use Beauty Blender in the process.

Achieve glowing skin without highlighter

“There is only one step between radiant and oily skin,” Violette says. To make the skin shine without the intervention of a highlighter, the makeup artist powders the forehead, nose, chin and cheekbones with Shiseido's Synchro Skin Invisible Silk Loose Powder.

Apply as little foundation as possible

“What I like to do is avoid putting foundation on my nose,” Violette shares. “When you don't put foundation on your nose, it feels like you don’t have any makeup on.” Where can you also avoid foundation? Around the eyes (“it’s better to use a natural shade of eyeshadow”), and the jaw.

The art of application

Forget makeup brushes and use your fingertips to blend foundation. “The warmth of your fingers will help achieve a smooth effect without any problems,” Violette says. The main thing before applying is to make sure that your hands are clean.

Use a serum for more shine

French women apply moisturizing serum to the high points of the face to give the skin a hydrated look. “I love using Estée Lauder's Advanced Night Repair Serum instead of a highlighter,” says Violette. “I put just a few drops on my nose, cheekbones, lip crease, and then gently pat on the selected areas. That's all. Now your skin looks much better.