Lauren Luke's first step to flawless foundation

Faces are complicated and not always perfect. There are oily T-zones, spots, blotches and even different skin tones on different areas of the face. It's the job of primer or moisturizer, concealer, foundation and finishing powder to iron these out and give a nice, smooth, even look to the face.

I can't recommend specific products because everyone's preference is different, but I can tell you how to pick the best colors for your skin and show you how I created the base for all the looks in this book.

Step 1
Start with a moisturizer or primer. Either product will smooth the skin, make it easier to apply foundation and help the foundation stay in place. Apply it all over the face, right up to the hairline. I like to use a cotton pad for this, but you can do it by hand.

Be sun safe: Most foundations now contain a sunscreen. If yours doesn't, you should think about applying a sunscreen before the foundation. It's important to protect your skin. And your skin will love the extra moisturizing layer too.
Lauren Luke's second step to flawless foundation

Step 2
Concealer will cover imperfections and flaws ready for makeup to be applied. It's not for covering the whole face.

Tip: There is an easy way to choose the best color for concealer and foundation. Take three shades that are likely to go with your skin tone and apply side by side along the jawbone. Take the ring finger and smooth each one into the skin. The color that blends into your skin tone is the one to go with. Discard the others.
Lauren Luke's third step to flawless foundation

Step 3
Foundation. I use a brush to apply foundation. It's time consuming, but you will get a better effect. If you are in a hurry, there's nothing wrong with using your fingers. Or you can do a bit of both to get into all those nooks and crannies. Be careful not to get foundation in your eyes—it stings!

Step 4
Finishing powder. I am starting to learn the value of this extra step—it sets the foundation. It can either be colored or translucent. To apply, use a really soft fluffy brush to swirl it in a circular motion all over the face and blend well into the foundation.

Tip: Depending on how you feel about your skin, you can repeat these steps to get a really good finish.

Watch now: Lauren demonstrates how to apply false lashes
Published 04/06/2010