Do you put foundation on brush or face first?

As a beauty enthusiast, one of the most common questions I get asked by new makeup users is, 'Do you put foundation on brush or face first?' The truth is, both approaches have their advantages and disadvantages. In this article, we will explore the various benefits and drawbacks of each technique and help you determine which one works best for your specific needs.

Benefits of Applying Foundation on Brush First

1. Even Application

By applying foundation on your brush first, you ensure that the product is evenly distributed before it touches your skin. This means you are less likely to over-apply foundation in certain areas of your face, leaving other parts bare. With a brush, you can work the product into your skin, creating a seamless, natural finish.

2. Control Over Application

Using a brush gives you greater control over how much product you apply to your face. You can start with a small amount and gradually build up the coverage as needed. This is especially useful for those who prefer a sheer, natural look rather than a heavy, cakey finish.

3. Hygienic

Applying foundation on your brush first can help keep bacteria and dirt from your skin. When you dab your brush into the product, the bacteria on your face do not transfer onto your foundation bottle, making it a more hygienic option. This is particularly important for those with acne-prone skin or those with sensitive skin that is easily irritated.

4. More Economical

Using a foundation brush first can save you money in the long run. By using a brush to apply your foundation, you can achieve a more even, natural-looking finish with less product. This means you won't have to keep buying more foundation as often, and your bottle will last longer.

5. Easier to Blend

When you apply foundation on your brush first, you have more time to blend it into your skin. This is because the product is not as likely to dry out as quickly as it would if you applied it directly onto your face. This is particularly useful for those who are new to makeup and struggle with blending to create a smooth finish.

Benefits of Applying Foundation on Face First

1. Time-Saving

If you're always on the go, applying foundation on your face first can save you a considerable amount of time. You don't have to worry about getting the foundation on the brush first, which can be a tedious process. You can simply apply the product directly onto your face and blend it out with your fingers or a sponge.

2. More Natural Finish

Applying foundation directly onto your face can give you a more natural finish than using a brush. This is because your natural oils and heat from your face can help the product meld with your skin better than adding an extra layer of product with a brush.

3. Better Coverage

If you prefer a full, heavy coverage look, applying foundation on your face first may be the way to go. You can build up the product to the desired coverage level by starting with a small amount of product, blending it in, and adding more layers as needed.

4. Better for Dry Skin

For those with dry skin, applying foundation on your face first can help hydrate the skin. Due to the natural heat and oils produced by the skin, it can help the foundation blend in better and not leave your skin looking cakey or drying out during the day.

5. Saves Brush Cleaning Time

Applying foundation directly on your face saves time on cleaning your foundation brush. You can go straight for blending with your fingers or sponge and save time on cleaning up your brush with soap.

So, Which One Should You Use?

Ultimately, the choice of whether to apply foundation on brush or face first depends on your skin type and personal preference. If you have acne-prone or oily skin, applying foundation on the brush first can be a more hygienic option. If you have dry skin, applying foundation on the face first may be the way to go.

If you prefer a natural look, you may find applying foundation directly on your face works best for you. For those who prefer full coverage or desire a more polished look, applying foundation on your brush first may be the better choice.

It's important to note that no matter which approach you choose, always make sure your skin is clean and moisturized before applying foundation. This will help prevent the product from clinging to dry patches or excess oil on your face.

In conclusion, whether you choose to apply foundation on brush or face first, make sure to take your time and blend the product well for a polished, natural-looking finish. Experiment with both options and see which one works best for you and your skin. Remember, makeup is an art, so have fun with it and don't be afraid to try out new techniques.