Made To Order

 

I may have mentioned Prescriptives once or twice here, right?  I'm a real fan because it works so well for me.  Lately, I've been using ready-made formulas, but recently, I had another custom blend foundation made and I didn't know just how much I missed it!

There is always talk about how black women have a hard time finding the right foundation, but honestly, I find that to be less and less true these days.  It really depends on you taking the time to find the right color - and sometimes spending the money on it and skipping the drugstore.  Or, you could make your life a lot easier and get a foundation color made that is the exact color of your skin at your nearest Prescriptives counter.   Once you get the formula made, you're good for at least six months unless you're a heavy user.

With my newest batch of custom blend (I have two formulas - one for fall/winter and the other for summer)  I was so impressed with the makeup artist's technique (his name is Jason Garland and you can find him at Bergdorf Goodman) in not only applying my foundation - but his use of a foundation brush, that I asked him to share his techniques for my future reference - and yours!

Nichelle:  Why is it better to use a foundation brush as opposed to a sponge or even your fingertips?

Jason Garland: A sponge pretty much absorbs all the product you apply on it. A brush will not only evenly distribute your foundation on your face but it will also save 30-50% of your product, rather than waste it like a sponge would. Same thing with your finger, the product is wasted on your fingers.

Nichelle:  What is the best technique in using a foundation brush?

Jason: For a lighter application, lightly tap your brush into the cap of your foundation and tap the product on your face and evenly distribute. For a heavier application, make your taps heavier and evenly distribute.

 

Nichelle: You used the Super Line Preventor Xtreme on me as a foundation primer.  How necessary is a foundation primer? What does it do exactly?

Jason: It really depends on the individual whether they choose to use primer. Primer is applied before foundation and helps makeup stay in place longer. It also helps to smoothen out enlarged pores, for a smoother more even application.

Nichelle:  When using a foundation with a heavier consistency, what steps can you take to avoid that "mask" look?

Jason: The key is to use a foundation brush. Start applying at the nose and work your way outward. When you get to the chin then use a sponge to buff your foundation and blend evenly. They key is to blend well around the chin so you don’t get an obvious line.

Prescriptives Foundation Brush, $30.00. Prescriptives 'Flawless Skin' Total Protection Pressed Powder, $30.00.  Prescriptives Super Line Preventor Xtreme, 1.0 oz, $48.00.   Prescriptives 'Super Line Preventor+' Intensive Eye Treatment, $45.00.

Comments

[Samara Leigh]

I've never been much of a makeup wearer, but now I'm starting to realize the importance of pampering my 35+ skin. You offer great info for women of color and hearing from professionals is very helpful.

[Nichelle]

Thanks for your feedback Samara!

I think I remember you from my Anovelista.com blog, right?

I'm glad you find the tips helpful. You really won't need much makeup if you do it right.

[Emma lil fashionista 4 lyf]

Hey I lyk your makeup tips and all
I always have SO much trouble puttin on foundation I always have an obvious line it's sooo annoying! You helped me heaps I have no more lines!!!!!
Thx
tata
Emma lil fashionista 4 lyf