Like paint on the walls, face makeup is the stage for the rest of your cosmetic applications. Whether you desire natural beauty or serious coverage, there are truly limitless options in foundations today. Thanks to the advancements in cosmetology, face makeup opportunities have essentially exploded.
Discover Your Skin Type

The first step in selecting face makeup is to determine the type of skin you have and the look you are hoping to obtain. Skin changes as you age, during the day, and through the seasons - therefore, you may need a variety of products to satisfy your face's needs.

Start with your skin's basic composition: oily, dry or combination. Most skin falls in the combination category with oil on the T-zone and the rest dry. Some facial skins also change their composition with hormone changes or humidity. Next, determine the amount of coverage you need based on the condition of your skin and your age. More coverage is necessary for skins with multiple imperfections and wrinkles that come with age.

Now that you have determined the texture of your skin, it is time to find the perfect foundation color. Always test shades of foundation on your face at the jaw line, as you want your face makeup color to match your neck. Try at least three different shades and test the true color in natural light. Even better, ask for a sample to take home and wear all day. Also, keep in mind that the color of your skin will change with the seasons - spring and fall are great times to reevaluate your chosen foundation palette.

Once you have resolved these three main points - the skin's composition, condition and color - you are ready to go shopping. Remember, the right makeup will make your complexion look naturally flawless - like you woke up that way.
Face Makeup to Fit Your Skin

The following outlines the best face makeup products to match typical skin types.
Oily Skin with Acne
Blotting papers
Loose Face Powder
Oil Control Liquid Foundation
Stick Foundation - to hide blemishes
Dry Aging Skin
Luminescent and Dewy Foundation Styles
Concealer
Pressed Powder
Combination Skin
Liquid or Cream Foundation
Balancing Products
Matte Products - to balance skin texture
Ruddy Red Skin
Yellow Based Foundation - to combat redness
Stick or Cream Products - blend evenly into skin
Skin of Color
Lighter Colors of Foundation
Warm Honey Tones
Good Skin
Sheer Liquid Foundation
Tinted Moisturizer
Application Tips
Foundation is a key step.

Before beginning with your makeup routine, always cleanse and moisturize your face and neck. Then, let the skin rest before tackling any makeup steps. This will help the skin to restore its most natural texture and color to ensure the makeup you apply will look right all day long. Also consider a face primer, as it seals in the moisture and smoothes the skin before applying the foundation.Whichever type of foundation you choose; the steps for application are relatively the same. Place a small amount of the makeup on your finger - about the size of the finger tip. Always start at the middle of the face with dots along the T-zone. Blend out and down toward the neck. For lighter coverage apply with a damp sponge, or in general, you can also use your fingertips. Ideally, place the face makeup over the entire face including your eyelids, nose corners and lips. This will provide a solid base for the rest of your makeup and ensure even color distribution. If you end up applying too much, you can always blot the excess with a tissue - a good practice for oilier skin types as it also absorbs some of the excess oil before the foundation has set.

For some, this application process might be a little more makeup then desired. Don't feel that face makeup must completely cover your face. Many women apply where needed, cover the imperfections, and blend with a damp sponge. This process works well for younger, relatively clear face complexions - just be sure that you blend well.

The last crucial step is the face powder. Find one that matches your foundation and place on top of your face when you are satisfied with the look of your face makeup. The powder helps to seal in the foundation and ensure a flawless finish all day. Depending on your needs, powder is available either loose or pressed. For less overall coverage use a large powder brush; for more, use the puff.