How to Apply Foundation Like a Pro

Foundation—many women have a love/hate relationship with it. Love the potential for creating the appearance of even-toned, blemish-free skin. Hate that it can be so tricky to look natural.  Here, New York City-based celebrity makeup artist Natasha Severino shows us her step-by-step application tips on how to get the most natural-looking foundation.

Start with smooth, hydrated skin.

Your foundation will only look as good as the skin underneath, so maintaining a consistent skincare routine is key. Right before applying foundation, it’s important to cleanse your skin to help prevent clogged pores and remove any dirt that may be dulling your natural radiance. Next, gently exfoliate to sweep away any dry, dead skin cells that may cause foundation to look uneven or flaky. Finally, apply moisturizer; foundation sinks best into hydrated skin. (Think of how a wet sponge soaks up water more readily than a dry sponge.) Check off all these boxes with the 3-Step Skincare System.

Feather it out along your jawline.

Be sure to blend your foundation all the way down your neck until it fades away. A light feathering motion is perfect for maneuvering the curves of the jawline and neck area.