5 Tips for Finding Your Best Foundation Match Ever

Alima Pure Satin Matte Foundation

So, maybe you’re ready to take the plunge with your first natural foundation (yay!) or perhaps you’re looking for your best winter foundation match. Here are five tips our makeup artists want you to know.

1. The rear view mirror never lies.

We always suggest testing out new foundation shades in natural light, but in the winter, sufficient natural light and leisure time can be hard to come by at the same time. If you’ve narrowed down your foundation shades to a few finalists, take them each for a spin in the real world before committing to one. A quick check in the rear view mirror can provide a helpful yay or nay.

2. Sheer layers are key

All of our foundation formulas are designed to be applied in sheer, buildable layers so that you can customize the amount of coverage each time you apply your makeup. Start with a small amount of Satin Matte Foundation, Pressed Foundation or Liquid Silk Foundation, and blend it outward from your nose using downward strokes. If you’re after fuller coverage, continue adding sheer, buildable layers to achieve the most natural finish, or opt for a fuller-coverage brush like the Flat Top Brush.

3. Speaking of tools… 

These are some of our favorite brush pairings:

The Foundation Brush = Fluffy and perfect for everyday (or slightly fuller) coverage with Satin Matte Foundation and Pressed Foundation with Rosehip Antioxidant Complex.

The Flat Top Brush = For medium to full coverage with fewer layers. Pair it with Satin Matte Foundation or Pressed Foundation with Rosehip Antioxidant Complex. 

The Soft Focus Brush = For sheer, effortlessly smooth coverage, pair with Liquid Silk Foundation. 

4. You can (and probably do) have more than one wearable match. 

With 72 foundation shades to choose from, it’s more likely than not that several shades will match your skin beautifully. With our flexible, buildable formulas, you can probably wear more than one shade in each kind of foundation--it's all a matter of personal preference. And of course, your skin tone probably fluctuates throughout the year, so what matched in August is going to be a different story in February. Having a few foundation shades on hand makes that transition between seasons more seamless, and keeps your complexion looking fresh.

5. The right match is the one that makes you feel the most confident in your own skin.

We’re happy to help in any way we can--(you can always email makeupartist@alimapure.com with a shade test selfie)--but you know your own skin better than anyone, and you can judge better than anyone whether it’s your best match.

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