Monday, July 1, 2013

Foundation for Success Part III

Liquids



Soooo groovy---mostly because that word still makes me think of this. But all physics for children (and me) aside, liquid foundation is not necessarily the rage that it was when I was 13. But it still has it's place. I've interestingly found in my experiences that individuals of a certain age prefer a liquid to a mineral or airbrush, because it comforts them to feel more like they're "really wearing makeup." That being said, it's defintately a much heavier feeling from today's more modern alternatives.

Why I would recommend a liquid.
1.Newer brands do come in HD friendly formulations and if you really feel that a slightly heavier application is necessary-- from differences in skin pigmentation to scars or as previously mentioned, it's just more in your comfort level-- then a liquid can really be great.
2. They're also perfect for events in between theatrical and film. Like pageant work, public addresses, fund raisers or charity events where perhaps more makeup should be worn than if you were going to the office, but not formal enough to hire a makeup artist for a airbrush app.
3. They can work really well in film or photography or weddings when a more made up look is necessary or purposeful. Take a peek at the Bollywood Bridal Makeup video I posted to see what I'm talking about. To balance the traditional formal eye makeup application, a heavier level of foundation is required for the face, so a liquid is great in those instances. Also if you're trying to recreate a certain time period for film. I fully believe you cannot achieve a Marilyn Monroe, Rita Moreno, Elizabeth Taylor, or Lena Horne without a heavier base like liquid or cream. It just doesn't look right otherwise.

Why I wouldn't recommend it.
1. Basically unless it's one of the above reasons, avoid. It's heavy, pore clogging, can easily look over made for more casual day to day wear.
2. Editorial work, most film, or "neutral/natural/effortless beauty" makeup. Whether for fashion, bridal, red carpet, etc. With the advent of digital film close up photos can make it look cakier than even the eye views it. And long wear (over 6 hours) runs the danger of it melting more than airbrushing might.
3. Ingredients like--- Cyclopentasiloxane, Neopentyl Glycol Diethylhexanoate, Mica, talc, PEG-10 Dimenthicone, Biosaccharide Gum-1, Phenyl, Trimethicone, Sodium Chloride, Lauroyl Lysine, Dimenthicone Crosspolymer, Glyceryl Caprylate, Methylpropanediol, Butylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Sodium Myristoyl Glutamate, Cyclohexacyloxane, Methylisothiazolinone, Sorbitan Sesquileate, Silver Oxide, Propylene, Carbonate, Parfum (fragrance), Methylparaben, Fagus Sylvatica Extract (Fagus Sylvatica Bud Extract), Hydrolyzed Yeast Protein, [+/- CI 77891 )titanium Dioxide), CI 77491 (Iron Oxides), CI 77499 (Iron Oxides).  **Keep in mind over 70% of what we put on our skin is absorbed into our bodies and then must be processed by our organs....***

Best brand to buy.
While both MAC and Clinique deserve honorable mentions here, the gold medal is easily handed to Makeup Forever for liquid. (stay tuned for pressed powder MAC-o-philes) their HD invisible cover foundation is the most modern and lightest on the market and if you do need a liquid for daily wear, I really strongly urge you to investigate this one. It's really one of the few liquids that is used in film or some editorial work. It comes in 26 shades and is easily blended.

What to keep in your kit.
Liquids can be applied with you finger tips, sponges, or a foundation brush. Brushes are great at product conservation, being the least absorptive of all three, but be warned, it in itself requires maintenance  Brushes, especially ones used with wet products, can harbor serious bacteria and dead skin cells. It needs washing at least once a week if not twice. I like to use my hands for application best. Wash your hands thoroughly and then use your finger tips to apply. Any smoothing or blending can be done with a sponge, but don't splurge for sponges at a makeup store either. Target sells bags of them for $1.99 that can be disposed of or washed and reused. Liquid must also always be set with powder and stays in place longer when primer is applied first.

What to leave to the pros.
Liquid is harder to flub and blend than airbrush or mineral. So if you're unsure about just exactly what shade you might be, ask a makeup artist. Some of the nice ones will charge you a minimal fee to go on a "guided shop" with you and can help you pick out products and colors galore! Like a personal shopper but for beauty products!

What to leave on the shelf.
Ok this might sound silly but foundation that comes in a spray can. Maybe if you're doing body work and you need it for arms/legs/tummy/ but otherwise don't use an aerosol can on your face. Please respect your face more than that. Also I would avoid anything that claims to be a liquid and powder in one. These tend to be the cakiest and heaviest of all. Remember that time in middle school when you thought it would be a good idea to switch to a shampoo & conditioner and then your hair looked and acted like oily spaghetti? Yeah, sometimes two in ones aren't always the best....



BKBTY

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