Chemistry of Cosmetic Foundation

We all like to keep our face looking nice and young. We generally use foundation as the first step in facial makeup. Foundation is a cosmetic tint which is also called base makeup. It is used to cover or even out the coloring of our skin. It can be used in concealing blemishes, dark-colored spots and imperfections. Foundation comes in liquid, stick and cream. They now have a mineral powder makeup which is a powder form of foundation. You will also find that all types of foundation can contain ingredients for sunscreen.

What is foundation made of? The chemistry of foundation in liquid and cream forms are mixtures of water and oil agents that are used as a base which contain a significant amount of talc and various pigments. These pigments can be naturally derived minerals or color agents. The chemistry in the foundation is to help evenly spread it on your face. It also contains moisturizers like mineral oil, and even silicone. There are also foundations that contain alcohols or other drying agents to dry it quickly on your skin. The water and oil helps in applying evenly and also keeps it evenly while being stored. Water-based foundation is used for lighter coverage and oily to combination skin. They will dry quickly and produce a matte like finish.

They may market some as being oil-free. These are intended for very oil skin. Read the labels carefully to be sure it has been checked for skin that is prone to getting acne.

Cream foundations are also known as an oil-based foundation. They are a thicker product and are usually sold in a jar. They may or may not contain water. They provide heavier coverage and are for dry skin, which give you a shinier appearance.

If you use a cream foundation on oily skin it can actually clog your pores. Choose a foundation that has the correct color that matches with your skin to give your skin a natural appearance. Also, when choosing a foundation be sure you choose one that is right for your skin type.

Here is a tip, a concealer may be worn alone without foundation. Make sure you use it sparingly and soften around the edges so your complexion appears clear and even and not a heavy makeup application.

Now that you have an idea of what is in foundation, shop carefully, and be sure it is hypoallergenic, and suitable for your skin type.