Applying liquid foundation with a makeup brush helps achieve a smooth, blended finish.
Steps for Applying Liquid Foundation with a Brush
Using a makeup brush for liquid foundation allows for precise application and can help control coverage. Here’s a breakdown of the process:
Preparation
Before you start, ensure your skin is clean, moisturized, and primed (if you use primer). This creates a smooth canvas for the foundation.
Step 1: Dispense the Foundation
Based on the reference, a key first step is to pump a small amount [of liquid foundation] onto the back of your hand. This warms the product slightly and allows you to control how much you pick up on your brush, preventing you from applying too much at once.
Step 2: Dab Foundation Onto Your Face
Next, as the reference suggests, you can dab the foundation onto your face. You can use your fingers initially to place dots of foundation strategically, or you can pick up the foundation from the back of your hand directly with your brush and dab it onto key areas. Focus on the T-zone—your forehead, nose, and chin—as these areas often require the most coverage or are where you start blending from.
Step 3: Blend with Your Brush
Now, use your foundation brush to blend the foundation into your skin. Different brushes and techniques yield different results:
- Buffing Brushes (dense, flat or rounded top): Use circular buffing motions to work the foundation into the skin for a seamless, airbrushed finish.
- Flat-Top Kabuki Brushes (dense, flat top): Similar to buffing brushes, use swirling or pressing and rolling motions.
- Stippling Brushes (duo-fibre, less dense): Use a light dabbing or stippling motion to apply foundation, which can be great for a lighter coverage or dewy look. Then, gently swirl to blend the edges.
- Traditional Flat Foundation Brushes (paddle-shaped): Use sweeping strokes to apply the foundation, then gently pat or stipple to remove brush marks and press the product into the skin.
Start blending from the areas where you first applied the foundation (like the T-zone) and work outwards towards the edges of your face (jawline, hairline, ears).
Step 4: Build Coverage (If Needed)
If you need more coverage in certain areas, apply another small amount of foundation to the back of your hand, pick it up with your brush, and gently dab or press the brush onto the specific spots that require more coverage. Blend only the edges of this added foundation.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
Ensure the foundation is blended seamlessly into your jawline and hairline. You can lightly pat your face with a clean makeup sponge or your fingertips to melt the foundation into the skin for an even more natural look.
Choosing the Right Brush
The type of brush you use can significantly impact the finish of your foundation.
| Brush Type | Common Shape | Recommended Technique | Finish |
|---|---|---|---|
| Buffing Brush | Dense, flat or dome | Buffing, swirling | Airbrushed, full coverage |
| Flat-Top Kabuki Brush | Dense, flat | Swirling, pressing, rolling | Smooth, medium-to-full coverage |
| Stippling Brush | Duo-fibre, layered | Stippling, light circular | Lighter coverage, natural/dewy |
| Paddle Brush | Flat, tapered | Sweeping, patting (for blending) | Can be streaky if not blended well |
Experiment with different brush types to find the one that gives you your desired finish and coverage level.
By following these steps, including dispensing the foundation onto your hand and dabbing it onto key areas like the T-zone before blending, you can achieve a smooth, even base using a makeup brush.
