What are Foundations?

 Foundations are pigmented products intended for application on the face and the neck. They colour the skin evenly and hide facial imperfections such as scars, depressions and dark and light coloured areas.


Foundations come in several forms like emulsions, creams, liquids, gels, cakes and powders - these different forms contain the same basic ingredients, but differ in texture and finish, because the components are present in different proportions.

The basic formulation of the foundation is based on colouring agents (usually derived from iron oxide or titanium oxide), a wax (which gives an even flow and smooth finish), some form of cellulose (to make the foundation thick and adherent), an emulsifier, preservatives, and usually a perfume.

Several forms of foundations are available. You must choose your foundation correctly and for this you need to know the effect of each of the forms.

Emulsions: These are packaged in tubes and are formulated for a variety of skin types ¬ for dry skins, oily skins and normal skins. They give less luster than cream or liquid foundations, but cover blemishes very well.
Creams:
These are packaged in jars. As they contain a high proportion of oils, they are particularly suitable for dry skins. These also provide a heavy cover, but give a glossy finish.
Liquids:

These are packaged in bottles and can be formulated for all skin types - so look at the label before you purchase! Along with the cake variety, they are the commonest type of foundation used. They give a light shine cover but are too light to cover any blemishes and scars.

Gels: These are packaged in squeeze tubes. They give a light, natural look and are the variety you should use if you have a blemish free normal skin.

Cakes or Sticks: These are the solid forms of foundation. Since they have a drying effect, use them on an oily skin. They give a dense matt cover and are good for covering blemishes and scars. Solid forms are popular for photographic and stage work but are too heavy for everyday use.

Powders:

The original full coverage face powders have now given way to transparent powders; these transparent powders control shine and provide oil-blotting. They are used after foundations to give a matt finish. Cake or compact powders are more heavily formulated; as they contain a certain amount of foundation, these are not the best choice for the initial powdering over foundation because they may rub the foundation off and also cause an unattractive colour build-up. They are best used for touching up during the day, when they help to reinforce coverage.