Okay, besties, let's talk foundation. Full coverage foundation, specifically. I know it sometimes gets a bad rap, but honestly, when done right, it can be amazing, especially as we move into autumn and our skin starts acting a little…temperamental. This is my absolute favourite full coverage foundation routine for fall – a proper glow-up, if you will.
Why Full Coverage? And Why Now?
So, why even bother with full coverage? Well, for me, it's all about confidence. I've struggled with redness and uneven skin tone, and sometimes, I just want that flawless canvas. Plus, with the change in seasons, my skin tends to get a bit drier, which can highlight imperfections. A good full coverage foundation can create a smooth, even base that lasts all day. Nights out are back too, and I feel like I need to be ready for anything!
Speaking of seasonal changes, don't forget to tweak your skincare routine! My Acne-Prone Skin Routine for Autumn! really helps keep my skin in check as the weather cools down. Honestly, it's a lifesaver.
My Step-by-Step Full Coverage Foundation Routine
Right, let's get into the nitty-gritty! Here's my tried-and-tested routine for a flawless, full coverage finish that doesn't look cakey or heavy:
Step 1: Prep is Key!
This is the most important step. Seriously, don't skip it! A well-prepped base is essential for any foundation, but especially for full coverage. I start with a gentle cleanse using the Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser. It's a classic for a reason – super gentle but effective.
Then, I follow up with a hydrating serum. Right now, I'm loving The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5. It's budget-friendly at around £7 from Boots and really plumps up the skin. I tried a new serum last week and ended up with dry patches all over – nightmare!
Finally, a good moisturiser. I'm currently using the No7 HydraLuminous Water Concentrate. It's lightweight but still super hydrating, perfect for under foundation. Let all of that sink in for a good 5-10 minutes before moving on to the next step.
Step 2: Primer Power!
Primer is your best friend when it comes to full coverage foundation. It creates a smooth canvas and helps your foundation last longer. I've been obsessed with the Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter (yes, I know it's technically a complexion booster, but I use it as a primer!). It gives the skin a gorgeous glow and helps blur imperfections. It’s a little pricey at around £36 from Space NK, but honestly, it’s worth every penny. I've also had good results with the budget-friendly NYX Professional Makeup Honey Dew Me Up! Primer (around £15 from Superdrug).
Step 3: Colour Correction (If Needed)
If you have any redness, dark circles, or hyperpigmentation, now's the time to tackle it. I use the Revolution Beauty Colour Correct Concealer Palette (another budget-friendly find at around £8 from Superdrug). A little green concealer on redness, peach or orange under the eyes – it makes a huge difference! Honestly, try it!
Step 4: Foundation Time!
Okay, here's where the magic happens. My current favourite full coverage foundations are:
* Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Makeup: A classic for a reason. It's budge-proof, transfer-proof, and lasts all day. It's around £37 from Look Fantastic.
* Fenty Beauty Pro Filt'r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation: Great for oily skin. It gives a matte finish but doesn't look flat or cakey. It’s around £30 from Boots.
* NARS Natural Radiant Longwear Foundation: For a more radiant finish. It's full coverage but still looks natural. It’s around £39 from Boots.
I apply my foundation with a damp beauty sponge. I've found that this gives the most natural finish. Start with a small amount and build up the coverage as needed. Remember, less is more! Focus on the areas where you need the most coverage and blend, blend, blend!
Step 5: Concealer for Extra Coverage
If you need extra coverage in certain areas, like under the eyes or on blemishes, use a concealer that's one shade lighter than your foundation. I'm currently loving the Maybelline Instant Anti Age Eraser Eye Concealer (around £9 from Boots). It’s lightweight and doesn't crease. I used to use a really thick concealer but realised it was just making my under eyes look worse!
Step 6: Set It and Forget It!
Setting your foundation is crucial for longevity, especially if you have oily skin. I use a loose setting powder, like the Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder (a splurge at around £33 from Boots, but it lasts forever!). I apply it with a fluffy brush, focusing on the areas that tend to get oily, like the T-zone. Then I follow with a setting spray. The Urban Decay All Nighter Setting Spray is my go-to (around £27 from Boots). It really helps to lock everything in place.
Step 7: Bronzer, Blush, and Highlight!
Now it's time to add some colour and dimension back into your face. I use a bronzer to contour my cheekbones, forehead, and jawline. Then, I apply blush to the apples of my cheeks. And finally, a touch of highlighter on my cheekbones, brow bone, and Cupid's bow. I’m obsessed with the Fenty Beauty Match Stix Matte Contour Skinstick and Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush.
Step 8: Finishing Touches
To finish off the look, I like to go over my face with a powder brush to blend everything together. This helps to soften any harsh lines and create a more seamless finish. And that's it! My full coverage foundation routine for flawless skin.
Pro Tips for Full Coverage Foundation
* Exfoliate regularly: This will help to remove dead skin cells and create a smoother canvas for your foundation.
* Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate: Drink plenty of water and use hydrating skincare products to keep your skin plump and moisturised.
* Use the right tools: A damp beauty sponge is your best friend for applying foundation. It helps to blend the product seamlessly into the skin.
* Don't be afraid to experiment: Find the products and techniques that work best for you. What works for me might not work for you.
* Less is more! Start with a small amount of foundation and build up the coverage as needed.
Final Thoughts
Full coverage foundation can be amazing, but it's all about finding the right products and techniques for your skin. I hope this step-by-step guide helps you achieve your flawless skin goals! Let me know in the comments if you try this routine, and what your favourite foundations are!
And remember, whilst focusing on your skin is great, don't forget about your overall well-being! Check out my posts on Cycle Syncing My Way to Better Moods & Energy! and Cycle Syncing Changed My Life (Seriously!) for some self-care inspiration. You deserve it, lovely!