Differing in consistency, texture, finish and colour, foundation makeup provides the base for your makeup look. Applied to the face and neck, foundation has the purpose of giving your complexion a flawless and glowing finish. Dependant on your skin type and coverage needs, foundation makeup can be lightweight, dewy, heavier or matte and must match with your skin tone for a desired and even finish.

When applying foundation makeup, you must first make sure it's the right colour match. Once this is set, your base should be cleansed and hydrated, preferably with a moisturiser. This will allow the foundation to set into the skin properly, before applying primer to prolong the foundation wear. When applying foundation makeup, start small – if there is too much product, this could create an unwanted build-up. You can then begin to blend the foundation outward with a foundation brush or damp sponge. If you're using your fingertips or a sponge, remember to dab the product in instead of rubbing the foundation in which may cause streaks. To finish, you can apply a face powder before continuing with the rest of your makeup look.

Face foundation can come in a variety of forms, each suitable to different skin types and your desired finish. Whether you're looking for a different coverage level or colour, there's a foundation type that will suit your individual needs:

• Liquid foundation: known for a natural and smooth finish, liquid foundation can either provide a dewy or matte finish and holds strong staying power. Liquid foundation can provide medium to full coverage and is ideal for those looking to cover signs of blemishes or redness.

• Stick foundation: cream or stick foundation is usually best for those looking for a dewy finish. The texture is generally silky and can provide a full coverage or light finish. Stick foundations are often very blendable, compact, easy to apply and buildable.

• Tinted moisturiser: for those seeking a lighter foundation type, tinted moisturiser offers a natural finish. Helping to moisturise the skin while providing lighter coverage, skin ends up looking hydrated and fresh.

When looking for the perfect foundation makeup colour for your complexion, you must first consider your skin type and undertone. If your skin is on the more on the oily side, we suggest looking for a foundation formula that is oil-free, while those with dryer skin types may opt for a hydrating liquid formula. Your undertone will impact the way foundation appears on your skin, so when choosing a foundation, the undertone needs to match the foundation shade. Undertones sit within three categories: cool, neutral and warm. When finding a face foundation shade, it's also important to swatch colours seasonally as your skin tone may slightly change throughout the year due to sun exposure.

Face foundation is known to be the base of your makeup look, and can determine how much concealer is really needed. Most beauty experts prefer to apply foundation first, and blend the concealer in second for a more seamless finish. This can also allow for a more full-coverage look, however if your concealer is too light for your skin tone it might be best to apply concealer first, then foundation over.