Choosing which makeup foundation to use is perhaps the most important decision in a makeup regimen. This is true for several reasons. Primarily, if your foundation does not closely match your skin tone in terms of depth - lightness or darkness - as well as matching your skin's undertones, the makeup can look cakey or costumey. Second, if the foundation is not made from quality ingredients, you can actually do your skin harm. So, even if you're on a budget, a good foundation is one cosmetic for which it's worth making an educated purchase. Consider visiting a cosmetics counter for a foundation that will improve both the appearance and health of your skin.
Find the Right Shade

Finding the right shade of makeup foundation requires two elements.
Determine your skin's undertones. Undertones fall under the categories of warm and cool. The best light for determining skin's undertones is natural light. If your skin has a rosy, pink, red or brown hue, you are a cool. If your skin has a yellow, green, or bronze hue, or if you have an olive complexion, you are a warm.
Match the foundation to your skin. If possible, visit a cosmetics counter at your local department store and ask an employee to assist you in finding a good foundation. The cosmetics worker will apply the foundation on your lower jaw where skin tends to be even. For a better view, it may also be applied to your palm. This area closely matches the natural shade of your face because it has not been exposed to a lot of sun.

The shade of the foundation, as a general rule, should be slightly lighter than your natural skin tone.
Types of Foundation

There are two makeup foundation options: liquids and powders. Powder foundation provides a matte finish, while liquid foundation can lend a dewy look. For those with oily skin, powders can help to absorb excess oil in the skin. If liquid foundation is difficult to blend, a dab of either water or light moisturizer can alleviate this. For a playful look, a glimmer foundation gives skin an iridescent look.

As with any makeup foundation, it won't stay fresh forever. It is important not to use foundation any longer than three to six months after opening it. This is because bacteria can grow in the makeup, especially airborne bacteria, once the makeup is exposed to air. Most makeup is made with preservaties to guard against bacteria growth. Some of these preservatives are controversial though. If you're concerned with your foundation's ingredients or other issues, such as animal testing, inspect the container and the company's website to make sure that you understand what you are purchasing. After all, you should always know what's going into or onto your body.
How to Apply Foundation

When applying your makeup, foundation should be the first item in your regimen. It should not be applied until your skin has been washed and your moisturizer has had a few minutes to be absorbed into the skin. After applying your makeup foundation, a dusting of loose powder can help to set it. Again, wait a moment before applying the rest of your makeup. Since foundation is on your skin all day, it is smart to consider one that offers built-in benefits such as an SPF moisturizer, or vitamins and minerals.

As an extra tip, foundation can be a tool for locking in your lip color. To do this, apply foundation to your lips prior to applying your lipstick. Your lips will hold onto color longer and without the appearance of cracked lips.