

5 ways to apply your foundation

Once you've found a foundation that you like, the next question is: how and with what to apply it? I'll introduce you to the 5 most common tools with their advantages and disadvantages.
I can still remember the days when I was on fire for the topic of make-up, but completely ignored the foundation thing. Things are different today: For me, a "full face of make-up" includes a liquid foundation. This in turn can be applied in different ways. Which one works best for you depends on various factors: What kind of finish and coverage you want and how much time and money you're willing to invest in it. Here is a brief overview of the five most common tools and techniques.
1. manual work
You probably applied your first foundation by hand. Even though I shudder today when I see someone doing this, there are many who swear by it. The warmth of your own hands is supposed to help the product blend into the skin. The good thing is that applying it yourself costs nothing and is beginner-friendly. The only important thing is that you wash your paws well before you start. The coverage is minimal with stroking movements and slightly higher with tapping movements. All in all, the result looks natural.
2. paddle brush
The classic foundation brush is a so-called "paddle brush": a paddle-shaped tool with which you can achieve light to medium coverage. This allows you to create a more natural look without having to fiddle around with your fingers on your face. Unfortunately, in my experience, it doesn't set make-up very well. That's why you should go straight for a foundation that gives you exactly the coverage you want with just one layer. Be careful: as soon as you use too much product, unsightly brush marks can appear.

3. buffing brush
I prefer to use the "Buffing Brush" rather than the "Paddle Brush". Its hairs are very fine at the tips and the shape is cut straight. It is best to use light patting movements to work the foundation into the skin. You can build up the liquid make-up until you are satisfied with the coverage. This brush is your best friend, especially when you need to work quickly.
4. sponge
The make-up sponge is by far my favourite. It is often also called Beautyblender. This name comes from the original manufacturer's name of the pink, egg-shaped sponge. There are now many other models from different brands. The best way to apply your make-up is to use a stippling motion. This gives you an even complexion. The "egg" can also be squeezed or held upside down so that you can work with the pointed end. This way, you can also reach nooks and crannies, such as around your nose. You can achieve almost any conceivable coverage with a make-up sponge, provided your foundation allows it. This means that you can apply a good coverage product very thinly if necessary. If you want more coverage, apply several layers on top of each other.
Hold the sponge under warm running water before use and then squeeze it out. Moisten it from time to time during application with a setting spray or a water spray bottle. This procedure keeps the sponge nice and soft. Also note that a sponge swallows some of your foundation with each application, which leaves a bitter aftertaste, especially with expensive high-end products. Unfortunately, the sponge is not hygienic, no matter how often you wash it, as bacteria collect inside it. You therefore need to replace it regularly.
You can find out more about this topic here:
5. silicone sponge
Once the sponge had established itself in the beauty scene, the "Silisponge" followed. A small, durable silicone pad designed to compensate for the shortcomings of the beauty blender. As the surface is impermeable, it does not absorb your foundation and does not create a centre of bacteria. Here, too, you proceed with dabbing movements. There is one catch: the foundation is difficult and time-consuming to blend. In addition, it often only sits superficially on the skin as it cannot be worked in properly due to the smooth silicone. It therefore wears off more quickly over the course of the day.


As a massive Disney fan, I see the world through rose-tinted glasses. I worship series from the 90s and consider mermaids a religion. When I’m not dancing in glitter rain, I’m either hanging out at pyjama parties or sitting at my make-up table. P.S. I love you, bacon, garlic and onions.