If you’re a makeup addict like us and apply it often, we know there are some issues that seem inevitable. Being a master with eyeshadow can be very annoying, only to have a base that won’t cooperate.

If your base makeup isn’t as good as it could be, no amount of vibrant eyeshadow or bold lipstick will be able to save the day. Defects in your makeup such as cracks and crevices, incorrect application techniques or tools used, and even the wrong or inadequate products can cause a foundation that just isn’t up to the mark. Even though beauty trends keep changing, and this year is all about looking fresh and keeping foundation cream to a minimum, there are a few essential products and steps you should never skip. In fact, creating a ‘natural’ look can be far more complicated than a regular or even glamorous one. Even though makeup will always look like your makeup no matter social media and its heavily photoshopped images, it is still possible to achieve something that looks and feels like a second skin.

What can help you build the right base?

Here are some standard steps, valuable tips and best products to use and create a flawless base that will last all day long!

1. Apart from having a set skincare routine before and after using makeup, the first step that you must follow religiously is prepping your skin properly. Even if you only wear light makeup, know that those are heavy products you’ll be using quite often — it’s almost a sin to directly expose your skin to makeup products.

After washing your face with a gentle cleanser, you should always use a toner to prepare, cleanse, and smoothen enlarged pores, followed by a light moisturizer. Try Wow Skin Science’s toner enriched with Vitamin C, Hazel Oil and Aloe Vera extracts that helps to purify and tone the skin, and removes excess sebum without drying out pores.

2. The next step is to use a primer. This essentially helps you create a uniform canvas for your masterpiece. A pea-sized amount gently applied to your entire face will create a thin layer on your skin where products will blend more easily, last longer and are less likely to crease. That’s because primer is an essential barrier between the fine lines and pores on your skin that tend to accumulate products, causing creases and cracks.

Try Lakmé Absolute Blur Perfect Face Primer which is a waterproof and matte-effect formula that is dermatologically tested for all skin types. and vibrant color and leaves your skin feeling light all day long!

Tip: Set your makeup and control shine throughout the day with a light dusting of translucent compact powder.”

3. Next in line are color correctors. Everyone has certain areas that are lighter or darker than the rest of the face – usually, the area under the eyes, above and around the lips and anywhere acne or redness may occur. Remember that the goal is to achieve an even tone over your entire face, which is why it’s important to use pigment to eliminate differences in color. The basic concept behind this lies in the understanding of the color wheel – colors in opposite directions cancel each other out.

Check out the Color Correction Palette by Insight, which delivers original color in the form of cream formulas that blend smoothly, are waterproof and crease-resistant! Green removes redness and acne, orange can be used under the eyes and around the lips – areas that have blue undertones and purple can be used to remove yellow undertones or discolored spots goes. The palette also has 2 shades of beige and a dark brown which can be used as a light concealer and contour respectively.

4. Now the next step is widely debated – what should come first, foundation or concealer? Every influencer will give advice differently, and we believe each and every one. However, logically, it makes sense to use Foundation first. Concealers are heavy products that show up under foundation. It’s wise to apply an even layer of foundation all over your face, and then use concealer to contour and lightly conceal essential areas.

Try Lakme Invisible Foundation with SPF 8 which is very lightweight and sits on like a second skin. The best part about it is that it is water based, which means it is suitable for all skin types and seasons. It is ideal for the kind of natural finish and zest that is currently the global trend in beauty standards.

Maybelline Fit Me Concealer is a full-coverage, easily blendable concealer that’s also oil-free. It ensures a natural looking finish and is also fade-proof and waterproof.

5. Using the right tools is absolutely essential to get the effect you want. Many people use a flat brush to apply as well as blend their foundation. You should only use it to apply, and then use a round, wide brush to buff it in thoroughly. For the finishing touch, you should use a damp Beauty Blender and pat it firmly.

The Spanking Beauty Brush and Sponge Set is the perfect combination of the perfect tools needed for a perfectly finished base makeup look.

Read Also: 6 Body Care Tips for All Skin Types

6. Heavy contouring is not the trend in 2021, especially with the shift towards naturalistic makeup. Therefore, you may look to powder-based contours like Chubb bronzer, blusher, and highlighter palettes to finish off your base. Bronzer and blush become important steps in finishing the base and looking dewy and fresh. Since contouring is indispensable, especially this spring and summer season, these act as 3 pigments responsible for organically shaping and enhancing your features.

7. The last step is to lock your look. Swiss Beauty Makeup Fixer is a lightweight, oil-free and non-greasy formula that sets your makeup, holds it in place and helps it last all day! Enriched with aloe vera and vitamin E, it also keeps your skin hydrated and gives the effect of a makeup look that was just finished.