Foundation Masterclass The 3 best tips for choosing and applying foundation for every skin type

Make sure your skin is thoroughly hydrated before you start applying your foundation. That means a hyaluronic acid-based serum followed by a face moisturiser.

If your skin is dry, skip matte foundation formulas - they can make dry patches appear even more prominent, and can exaggerate wrinkles, too. Instead, opt for a liquid foundation, such as Urban Decay Naked Skin Liquid Makeup, or a tinted moisturiser such as Chantecaille Just Skin. If you really want a matte finish, opt for a liquid foundation that dries with a powder effect - it’ll do a better job at not emphasising the appearance of dryness.

If your skin is dry, skip the final step of translucent power. Finishing powders absorb excess oil, so if your skin is already dry it’ll can enhance - rather than disguise - any flakiness.

Applying cream or liquid foundations on oily skin can clog pores and cause acne, so opt for an oil-free foundation that will balance out your skin for a flawless finish.

To ensure a non-shine finish, follow up your foundation application with a mattifying setting spray. Once it’s set, touch up with translucent powder where needed.

This one is just for those with next-level oily skin: Try applying a loose setting powder under your foundation, but over your moisturizer and primer. Powder again over oily areas only. It may sound a little counter-intuitive, but it’ll help keep grease at bay and ensure your foundation lasts longer.

Pick a primer that can help mattify the areas that need it - cue your T-zone - while hydrating any dry patches, such as your jawline and cheeks. If you have enlarged pores, look for a primer with a ‘blurring effect’ which can also help minimise their appearance, too.

If your skin is combination, choose a buildable foundation that allows you to customise your coverage on different parts of your face. You might need a little more coverage on your nose or chin, for example.

Instead of applying translucent powder on your whole face, focus on just your T-zone - your most oily area - using a translucent brush. Chances are you won’t need it on the rest of your face.